Like dogs, cats are one of man’s best friends. They make great pets and companions. However, as a fur parent, one of the things you should consider when choosing a pet is its lifespan and how long it will be able to accompany you in this life. So, we’ve listed the top 20 longest-living cat breeds to help you with your adoption or purchase process!
Burmese
Pet Insurance Review notes that a Burmese cat’s lifespan averages between 10 and 16 years. However, because it’s only the average, aside from your cat’s genetics, there are things you can do to extend their lives for as long as possible. Burmese cat owners should also be mindful of the common health issues they go through, such as upper respiratory tract disorders, dental disease, kidney disease, and even diabetes.
Siamese
The Siamese cat is a cat native to Thailand, previously called Siam. According to the South African Canine Breed Registry, the Siamese cat lives between 10 and 12.5 years. Though the majority lived to around 10 years or more, a big chunk, or around 42%, lived more than 12.5 years!
Balinese
The Balinese cat is considered a descendant of the Siamese cat, but it lives a lot longer! An article from Algonquin College notes that it has a remarkably long lifespan, especially for a domestic cat. Balinese cats often reach 20 years old, though their average lifespan is 15 years.
Persian
One of the most beloved pet cat breeds is the Persian cat. They are gentle, loving companions, and the best thing about them is that they have a long lifespan! The Spruce Pets notes that Persian cats live up to 15 to 20 years on average.
Ragdoll
Ragdolls typically live 13 to 16 years. They are very affectionate, friendly, intelligent, and obedient—every pet lover’s dream cat! However, owners of this cat need to be mindful of health issues such as obesity, urinary tract infections, cardiac disease, and more if they want their pets to live longer.
Sphynx
The Sphynx is notorious for being a hairless cat. However, although this is the case, they are not entirely hairless; according to the Cat Fanciers’ Association, there is some hair on the bridge of their nose and ears. Though they don’t live as long as other cats on this list, they still make the cut for one of the longest-living cat breeds, with a life expectancy of 8 to 16 years.
American Shorthair
The American Shorthair might just be one of the best cats to own if you want a cat that will grow with you or your kids. Digit Insurance states that these cats are “renowned for their longevity.” In fact, the American Shorthair has an average lifespan of 15 to 20 years!
Russian Blue
Nationwide Pet Insurance shares that Russian Blue cats have a life expectancy of 15 to 20 years. In fact, it’s not uncommon or surprising for most of them to live up to 18 years of age. Aside from its long lifespan, the Russian Blue cat is also great for people with allergies, as they don’t shed as much as other cat breeds.
Egyptian Mau
The Egyptian Mau has been worshiped by Egyptians of the ancient world. They’re intelligent, fiercely loyal, and devoted cats that make one of the best pets. Aside from this, Egyptian Maus also live up to 13 to 16 years, making them great companions.
Munchkin
For the most part, Munchkins are very healthy cats. However, due to their short legs, owners need to be mindful of their physical health so they don’t become obese. They are still prone to some diseases like urinary tract infections and heart problems, but for the most part, they can live up to 12 to 15 years.
Savannah
According to the Department of Agriculture and Food, Savannah cats can live for about 23 years in the wild. On the flip side, domesticated Savannah cats can live up to 15 years. These cats are very active and have social and curious personalities. They’d also make great pets because they bond closely with their owners.
Oriental Shorthair
The International Cat Association notes that Oriental Shorthairs have an average life expectancy of more than 10 years. However, they, along with others within the Siamese breed group, are also famous for living for more than 10 years. Because of their coats that come in around 300 color variations, the Oriental Shorthair is also called the Rainbow cat.
Manx
Manx cats are less common than other cat breeds, but they can be popular pet choices, too, since they are very friendly. They are also unique, as some Manx cats can have a complete absence of a tail or even a stump or short tail. According to Digit Insurance, these cats can live up to 10 to 14 years. However, if you care for and breed one properly, they can reach their early 20s!
Bombay
Bombay cats are known to look like tiny black leopards. They have shiny, jet-black fur and golden-yellow eyes and are considered intelligent animals. Sadly, some Bombay cats may suffer from genetic diseases like hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. If cared for properly, though, Bombay cats can live up to 20 years.
Singapura
Singapura cats are friendly and social and can get along well with people, other cats, and dogs—if trained well when they were young. Additionally, WebMD notes that a Singapura cat can typically live to around 11 to 15 years. However, they are prone to genetic problems, such as progressive retinal atrophy or pyruvate kinase deficiency.
Nebelung
The Nebelung cat is a descendant of the Russian Blue cat. It is fluffy and has a silver-blue coat, giving it an elegant and ethereal quality. According to Cat Time, “Nebelung” was derived from the German word “Nebel,” meaning mist or fog, perfectly capturing the Nebelung cat’s majestic and mystical aura. On average, Nebelung cats have a life expectancy of 11 to 16 years.
Himalayan
The Himalayan cat is another cat breed that lives for over a decade. They have an average lifespan of 15 years. Aside from that, these cats are famous for their long, silky fur and charming personalities. Digit Insurance notes that Himalayan cats can be very affectionate and devoted and enjoy relaxing around the house.
Japanese Bobtail
One of the oldest cats in the world is the Japanese Bobtail, which has been recorded in Japan since the sixth century. It is a very sweet cat that loves to be with people. According to Daily Paws, they also have an average lifespan of 9 to 15 years, making them excellent pets!
Maine Coon
The Spruce Pets notes that the Main Coone has been in the United States since the 1800s. Because of this, it’s considered to be the oldest native cat breed in the country. Main Coons have an average life expectancy of around 12 to 20 years. However, they are susceptible and high risk when it comes to health issues.
Norwegian Forest
With proper care, Norwegian Forest cats can surpass their average lifespan of 15 years. This breed of cat can survive in extremely harsh climates, but it also has a very calm temperament and is very affectionate and sweet. Some hereditary diseases one needs to watch out for include hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, hip dysplasia, and glycogen storage disease type IV.
