ANIMALS
International Cat Day 2024: The 6 cat breeds that live the longest
With the right care, some cat breeds are known to live significantly longer than others. Genetics, health predispositions, and lifestyle choices are crucial.
If you’re looking for a furry friend more likely to accompany you for years, a cat is a great option for some. According to Forbes, around 46.5 million households are home to a cat, slightly less than the 65.1 million with a dog.
An adopted mixed-breed cat can live longer than a pure breed and some are known to make it into double digits. However, there are no exact averages because many variables impact the age at which a cat lives.
A Burmese cat holds the record for the longest-living cat at 35 years. However, like a few other breeds, the lifespan range is quite wide, with the Grass Valley Veterinary Hospital reporting that they can live anywhere between 15 and 25 years.
Similarly, Russian Blues are a breed that can live up to 20 years, but the veterinary hospital puts the low end of the range at ten years.
Ragdolls also have a wide range, with many living between 15 and 25 years old.
Other breeds that the veterinary hospital mentions include Balinese (18-22 years), Sphynx, and Persian (15-20 years).
The secret about pure-breed cats
The domestication process can damage the health of animal breeds, as specific traits can make them more vulnerable to health issues. Breeders may not want those in the market to know this fact, but pure-breed cats typically live shorter lives than their mixed-breed counterparts.
Animal rights organizations like PETA have long advocated for adopting over purchasing animals as pets. While pure bread feline may seem attractive, the group argues that mixed breeds often have fewer health issues. For instance, PETA reports that Burmese cats are more likely to develop asthma, diabetes mellitus, and inflammatory bowel disease. In contrast, Persian cats often suffer from bladder stones, eye problems, and fungal skin infections.
Additionally, PETA explains that while breeders may try to convince you to go with their specific breed because they are hypoallergenic, no such cats exist. “If you’re allergic to cats, you’re allergic to a protein found in their saliva, dander, and/or urine but not necessarily their fur,” details the animal rights group.