Average lifespan
A large UK study of over 7,000 cats (Teng et al., 2024, Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery) put average life expectancy at birth at about 11.7 years, with female cats living around 1.3 years longer than males. Many vets quote 12 to 15 years for a well-cared-for indoor cat, and cats into their 20s are not rare.
Indoor vs outdoor
Indoor cats usually live longer, mainly because they avoid traffic, fights, and infections such as FIV and FeLV. The trade-off is boredom and weight gain, so indoor cats need play, climbing space and portion control. Cats with safe outdoor access (a catio, a quiet garden, curfews at night) fall somewhere in between.
Breed differences
Mixed-breed cats tend to do well. Among pedigrees, Burmese and Birman cats are often long-lived, while some breeds have shorter averages linked to inherited conditions, for example heart disease in some Maine Coon and Ragdoll lines or kidney disease in Persians.
What helps a cat live longer
- Neutering
- A lean body weight
- Yearly check-ups, then twice-yearly from about 10 years, with blood and urine tests
- Dental care
- Plenty of water, including wet food
- Keeping toxins like lilies out of the house
Curious how old your cat is in human terms? Try the cat years calculator.
Frequently asked questions
What is the oldest cat on record?
Creme Puff of Texas, recorded by Guinness World Records as living 38 years and 3 days.
Is 15 old for a cat?
Yes, 15 is a super senior, roughly 76 in human years. Many 15-year-olds are still active with good care.