How many cats live: which breeds live the longest and what affects a cat's lifespan?

Domestic cats nowadays they live longer and longer. The fundamental progress that has been made in the field of veterinary medicine, as well as the growing awareness of caregivers, have allowed for a significant improvement in the diagnosis and treatment of many diseases.

How many cats live?

Thanks to the changes and improvements that have been made in the field of cat nutrition, as well as the continuous work on improving the effectiveness of preventive measures in the field of preventive vaccinations, the incidence of parasitic and infectious diseases of our four-legged friends has been significantly reduced, and a healthy, well-balanced diet with an appropriate composition has begun to have fundamental importance.

So it's no surprise that a domestic cat's life expectancy today is on average 14 - 16 years old.

Some cats live to a very old age Twenty years, and record holders even longer.

The oldest representative of this species, which has found an honorable place in the Guinness Book, is a kitten named Creme Puff - she has achieved an unprecedented life expectancy 38 years and 3 days!

Observing the ever-increasing lifespan of our pets, the question immediately arises, what are these variables that influence how far our purr will go in years??

And then - do we, as guardians of quadrupeds - have any influence to ensure its longevity??

If you want your pet to accompany you for many years, check what you can do to provide him with appropriate conditions for this purpose.

Feel free to read this article as you will find information about it in it:

• how long do representatives of individual cat breeds live,
• what common diseases stand in the way of longevity in cats,
• how many "human " years is your pet,
• how you can influence your purring friend's late old age.

A very important issue is the fact that all statistical data on the life expectancy of individual breeds of cats, as well as the age of entering the period of maturity or old age, are an attempt to artificially create certain patterns and schemes that are later to facilitate the management of cats of different ages.

However, these are only tables, which - yes, they can be useful, but even the most perfect conversion factors and simulations will never reflect with 100% certainty the "real " age of a cat.

To paraphrase our saying:

The cat is as old as it feels.

• What affects the life expectancy of a cat?
  • Cat breed
  • The longest-lived cat breeds
  • Influence of coat color on disease incidence in cats
  • sex
  • Way of life
  • Medical history
  • Antiparasitic prophylaxis and regular vaccinations of the cat
  • Regular visits and checkups with a veterinarian
  • Dental care
  • Diet affects your cat's lifespan
  • Does the nature of the cat affect life expectancy??
  • Castration / sterilization
  • The age of the cat
• What happens when a cat grows old?
• The most common diseases of older cats
  • Obesity in a cat
  • Hypertension
  • Diabetes
  • Inflammation of the intestines
  • Heart and circulatory failure
  • Oral and periodontal diseases
  • Urolithiasis
  • Chronic kidney disease
  • Overactive thyroid gland
  • Joint degeneration
  • Liver disease
  • Ophthalmic problems
  • Malignant neoplasms
  • Anemia
• How can the life of a cat be extended?

What affects the life expectancy of a cat?

What affects the life expectancy of a cat?

In their first years, cats mature fairly quickly.

They show the fastest "growth jump" in the first year of life, then it slows down slightly.

The moment they finish 2. year of life, reach "equivalent " 24 human years, and then, on average, each year thereafter after 4 human years.

An older cat is considered one that has completed 9. year of life.

The greatest mortality among cats is recorded in age 1 year and 15 - 16 years old.

Cat breed

Cat breed affects life expectancy?

It's not that all cats mature, age, and leave at about the same age.

It is strictly dependent on race, and the size of a cat.

Genetic factors determine not only life expectancy, but also disease incidence and predisposition.

Take maturation for example:

female Siamese cat matures at the age of approx 6 months, while most "non-purebred" cats reach sexual maturity between 10. a 12. month of life. Large cats, such as Maine Coon and Persians, mature even later - around 2 years.

Non-purebred cats live longer than purebred cats.

Most likely it is related to strictly selective breeding, the aim of which is to develop desirable traits in offspring, however its side effect is usually higher incidence of various types of diseases.

It is not for nothing that it is said that non-purebred cats are healthier and stronger.

In the case of genetic factors, the most important factors in predicting life expectancy will be:

• cat breed,
• parental life expectancy,
• parental health,
• congenital diseases - for example congenital heart disease will definitely affect your cat's life expectancy, so knowing both parents' bloodlines is important in further prognosis.

As I mentioned, racial inclination and genetics have a significant impact on the length of the animal's life.

Now let's take a look at how it looks in different cat breeds.

Below is a brief description of each breed of cat along with the most common diseases.

I limited myself only to outlining specific predispositions, omitting the list of typical "feline " diseases that all cats can suffer from without exception.

How much does the Abyssinian cat live?

The life span of an Abyssinian cat is approx 9 - 15 years.

How much does the Abyssinian cat live?

Abyssinian cat, according to legends, still worshiped by the ancient Egyptians, he is characterized by fairly good health.

However, this breed is burdened with two serious genetic diseases:

• Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) that can lead to loss of sight in the cat.
• Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency (PKA). This defect leads to the development of haemolytic regenerative anemia in cats.

Therefore, before buying, it is always worth asking the breeder for a certificate stating that the parents are tested and free from genetic mutations.

Tests for both of these diseases are available and it is possible to check at any time whether the cat is not a carrier of the defective genes.

Except that Abyssinian cats may be more prone to the following diseases:

• dilated cardiomyopathy,
• hair shaft disorders in Abyssinian cats,
• psychogenic alopecia,
• blastomycosis,
• cryptococcosis,
• drug reactions to griseofulvin (an antifungal medicine),
• congenital hypothyroidism (an anecdotal case in one family of Abyssinian cats),
• amyloidosis (mainly liver, kidney),
• increased osmotic sensitivity of erythrocytes,
• hyperesthesia syndrome (hyperesthesia),
• myasthenia gravis (rare in cats),
• nose and throat polyps,
• gingivitis.

How much does an American shorthair cat live?

The life span of an American Shorthair cat is approx 15 - 20 years.

How much does an American shorthair cat live?

American shorthair cats They are in very good health with a low risk of hereditary diseases.

One of the most important diseases that can affect this breed is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

Middle-aged or older males are predisposed.

However, these cats usually live into old age.

How much does an American Bobtail Cat live??

The American Bobtail cat lives around 12 - 15 years.

Relatively young breed, most widespread in the United States.

American Bobtails they are very strong and healthy cats, but they can suffer from typical cat diseases.

Breed representatives born without a tail may suffer from a deformed spine (e.g. defecation problems).

Before buying a kitten, make sure that the breeder has documentation regarding the health of the parents.

Generally, however, they are cats of good health.

How much does an American curl cat live?

The American curl cat lives around 12 - 16 years old.

How much does an American curl cat live?

American curl is another breed of cats, originating from America.

These cats are considered healthy and resistant, and the mutation responsible for the characteristic twisting of the ears does not affect the functioning of the body.

No other genetic mutations or predisposition to disease are known, and kittens have a strong immune system and a good response to vaccinations.

Hence, cats of this breed rarely get sick.

Of course, diseases like polycystic kidney disease, if ear diseases They are also found in this breed, but they do not result from any particular predispositions. NS

How many American wirehair cats live?

The American wirehair cat lives approx 7 - 12 years.

A breed descended from the American shorthair cats.

These animals are generally healthy, however, due to the admixture of blood from short-haired cats, they may have a similar predisposition to diseases, including hip dysplasia and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

How many Turkish Angora cats live?

The Turkish Angora cat lives approx 12 - 18 years old.

How many Turkish Angora cats live?

Turkish angora are relatively healthy cats.

Representatives with a white coat and blue eyes tend to deafness.

They can develop as well hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

May occur in kittens 2 - 4 weeks of age ataxia, concerning the neuromuscular system and always fatal.

This disease affects only representatives of this breed.

How long does the Australian mist cat live?

The Australian Mist cat lives approx 12 - 18 years old.

A race descended from Burmese cat, Abyssinian and tabby domestic cat.

The most common problems faced by representatives of this breed are skin allergies and obesity along with its accompanying diseases.

One kitten was found pyruvate kinase deficiency; although the disease is episodic, it is worthwhile to perform genetic testing on farm animals.

How much does a Balinese cat live?

Balinese cats, who do not develop these disorders have a chance of reaching age 18 - 22 years old.

It is a race descended from Siamese cat, a is characterized by longer hair.

Due to their origin, they may be predisposed to the same diseases that affect the native breed:

• amyloidosis - a condition in which there is a build-up of a certain type of protein - amyloid, in various internal organs (mainly the liver),
• feline bronchial disease / asthma,
• congenital heart disease (including aortic stenosis),
• squint,
• gastrointestinal disorders such as. giant esophagus (megaesophagus),
• hyperesthesia syndrome - is a series of symptoms on the border of neurological and behavioral disorders; this syndrome is characterized by symptoms of wrinkling of the skin in the lower back along the spine, staring at your own tail, biting the tail and hind limbs, strong nervousness, sometimes also strong arousal and vocalization,
• lymphoma in a cat,
• nystagmus (involuntary eye movements),
• progressive retinal atrophy,
• acromelanism - the production of melanin depends on the temperature of the environment.

How much does a Bengal cat live?

Many sources give a different life expectancy for a Bengal cat, which varies from 9 to 16 years old. Bengal cat lives on average 7.3 years.

How much does a Bengal cat live?

The Bengal cat was originally created from crossbreeding asian leopard with domestic cat, and then z Abyssinian cat and egyptian mau.

Generally healthy, however, they have the shortest lifespan of all cat breeds.

The breed may be fraught with diseases such as:

• distal neuropathy - a disorder of the nervous system that can appear in cats as early as 1 year of age,
• Kittens may develop Flat Chest Syndrome, which may be mild to severe in intensity; changes that are not advanced are fortunately diminished gradually as they grow and develop,
• hip dysplasia, which may result in lameness,
• hypertrophic cardiomyopathy,
• congenital dislocation of the patella - mild to severe; severe cases can be corrected surgically,
• progressive retinal atrophy.

How many cats of the Burmese breed live?

The life span of a Burmese cat is approx 12 - 16 years old.

How many cats of the Burmese breed live?

These extremely affectionate and gentle cats also have their own personal pool of diseases that they suffer from.

These are among others:

• congenital hypothyriosis - cats are born hairless and have immunological disorders leading to immunodeficiency,
• keratocele - an ophthalmological problem involving the growth of skin and / or hair on the surface of the cornea; the defect is surgically removed,
• spongiform degeneration of the brain - a progressive disease of the central nervous system, manifested, among others, by weakness of the hind limbs and lack of coordination; age of onset is approx 7th week of life.
• Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy - the most common feline heart disease to which males are predisposed,
• type B haemophilia caused by factor IX deficiency,
• tail end necrosis (most likely caused by isoerythrolysis of newborns),
• thymic aplasia (symptoms appear in the early months of life),
• corneal necrosis as a racial predilection,
• congenital cataract (there have been cases of this disease in Burmese cats),
• distal polyneuropathy, appearing at 8-10 weeks of age,
• polycystic kidney disease.

How much does a Bombay cat live?

As a rule, the Bombay cat is alive 15 - 20 years.

A breed formed by crossing a Burmese sand cat with a black domestic shorthair cat.

These cats are usually healthy, although one disease (also seen in Burmese cats) may have a genetic background:

it is a craniofacial defect, sometimes called a Burmese head defect.

This disease is observed in newborn kittens, which may have severely deformed heads (such animals are usually put to sleep immediately).

In addition, they may also have:

• Burmese hypokalemia,
• polycystic kidney disease.

How much does a British cat live?

British shorthair cat lives on average 14 - 20 years.

How much does a British cat live?

One of the most popular cat breeds.

It is generally considered healthy, but due to anatomical conditions (brachycephalism), as well as hereditary predisposition, it may have a tendency to develop many clinical conditions and diseases:

• Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy - quite common in this breed,
• type B hemophilia,
• obstruction of nasolacrimal tubules,
• polycystic kidney syndrome,
• plasmocytic gingivitis,
• overactive thyroid gland,
• inflammation of the bladder,
• chronic kidney disease,
• autoimmune lymphoproliferative syndrome in British cats.

How long does a Burmese (Burmese) cat live??

Burmese cat lives on average 16 - 18 years old.

These cats are long-lived and usually achieve 18 years and older (despite quite a large list of diseases to which they may have a predisposition).

They are generally a healthy breed, although they often develop gingivitis.

They are also more than any other breed sensitive to anesthesia.

Other clinical conditions seen in this breed include:

• aqueous humor lipemia - a transient milky appearance of the eyes in kittens (usually resolves on its own),
• a keratocele,
• craniofacial pain syndrome - symptoms include excessive licking, chewing, scratching the area of ​​the mouth with a paw; it is accompanied by the lack of food intake due to the perceived discomfort and pain.
• congenital vestibular disease; its symptoms are:
  • head tilting,
  • balance disorders,
  • lack of motor coordination in kittens,
  • sometimes deafness.
• head defect of Burmese cats (craniofacial defect),
• Hypokalemic polymyopathy in Burmese cats - muscle weakness due to low blood potassium levels seen in kittens; the symptoms are:
  • general weakness,
  • stiff gait,
  • reluctance to walk,
  • head shaking.
• flat chest syndrome in kittens,
• a twisted tail, as a rule, it is the result of a deformation of the coccyx,
• osteoarthritis of the elbows,
• endocardial fibroelastosis - symptoms appear with age 3 weeks. life up to 4 months; is considered to be inherited.
• Dilated cardiomyopathy - is less common now,
• diabetes,
• congenital hypothyriosis - may run in families,
• acromelanism,
• psychogenic alopecia,
• congenital deafness,
• hyperesthesia syndrome,
• meningeal hernia,
• calcium oxalate urolithiasis,
• nostril agenesis (abnormal development).

How many burmilla cats live?

Burmilla cat lives on average 10 - 15 years.

This relatively young breed was created as a result of crossing a Burmese cat with a chinchilla persian.

The diseases that they can develop are similar to those that affect the original breeds.

Most often it is polycystic kidney disease and the head defect of Burmese cats.

What is the life expectancy of a Ceylon cat?

Ceylon cat lives approx 15 years.

There is not much information about the incidence of specific diseases in this Sri Lankan cat.

There are assumptions that he may be prone to diseases of the upper respiratory tract.

How much does a chantilly cat - tiffany live?

Chantilly cat - Tiffany lives approx 14 - 16 years old

Basically healthy and strong cats, no breed problems.

You should regularly check and clean your ears and (apparently) do not give corn products due to the delicate digestive system.

How long do Cornish Rex cats live?

Cornish Rex cat lives approx 11 - 15 years.

How long do Cornish Rex cats live?

The breed is generally healthy.

However, it may be predisposed to certain diseases:

• congenital hypothyriosis, otherwise known as hereditary alopecia,
• umbilical hernia,
• hypertrophic cardiomyopathy,
• Hypothyroidism.

How many Devonian rex lives?

Devon Rex cat lives approx 9 - 15 years.

How many Devonian rex lives?

The Devon Rex is considered a generally healthy breed.

However, it may be predisposed to certain diseases such as.in.:

• congenital hypothyriosis,
• hypertrophic cardiomyopathy,
• Malassezia dermatitis,
• hip dysplasia,
• pigmented urticaria,
• congenital Devon Rex myopathy,
• Vitamin K-dependent coagulopathy,
• patellar dislocation.

How long does the Egyptian Mau cat live?

The Egyptian Mau cat lives around 13 - 16 years old.

How long does the Egyptian Mau cat live?

This breed is relatively healthy, but may be predisposed to neurological disorders in the course of spongiform degeneration of the brain.

The background of this disease is most likely hereditary and the age of onset of symptoms is approx 7. week of life.

What is the life expectancy of an Exotic Shorthair Cat?

The exotic shorthair cat lives around 12 - 14 years old.

What is the life expectancy of an Exotic Shorthair Cat?

These cats are predisposed to diseases such as:

• polycystic kidney disease,
• respiratory problems (due to the brachycephalic structure of the skull),
• progressive degeneration of the retina,
• hypertrophic cardiomyopathy,
• calcium oxalate urolithiasis.

How long does the European Shorthair cat live?

How many domestic cats live? The European Shorthair cat lives approx 15 - 22 years old.

How long does the European Shorthair cat live?

The European Shorthair cat is the most popular breed of domestic cat in Poland.

Apart from "typical " feline diseases, it is also predisposed to developing other disorders, such as:

• hypertrophic cardiomyopathy,
• skin asthenia (Ehler-Danios syndrome),
• dye stains,
• dermatitis after sun exposure,
• psychogenic alopecia,
• skin tumors,
• congenital portal-systemic anastomosis,
• hematological disorders:
  • Pelger - Huet anomaly,
  • methaemoglobin reductase deficiency,
  • pyruvate kinase deficiency,
  • type A hemophilia,
• mucopolysaccharidosis I,
• congenital myasthenia gravis,
• tumors of the sebaceous glands,
• neurological diseases:
  • neuroaxonal dystrophy (tricolor domestic cat),
• lysosomal storage diseases:
  • sphingomyosis,
  • hyperoxaluria,
  • congenital defects of the eye structures,
  • corneal leather,
  • congenital cataracts,
• spherical lens,
• hereditary porphyria,
• calcium oxalate urolithiasis.

Havana cat - life expectancy

The Havana cat lives approx 12 - 15 years.

Cats Havana Brown are generally healthy, however some people (especially young ones) may have problems with the upper respiratory tract.

They are also sensitive to blastomycosis.

How many Himalayan cats live?

The Himalayan cat lives around 10 - 15 years.

As a mix of Persian and Siamese cats, they inherited from them a certain predisposition to diseases, mainly polycystic kidney disease and respiratory disorders.

The following disorders have also been observed in Himalayan cats:

• dermatophytosis (they are sensitive to mycoses of the skin),
• multiple epidermal cysts (on the eyelids),
• systemic lupus erythematosus,
• skin asthenia,
• feline acromelanism,
• idiopathic dermatitis of the face of Persians and Himalayan cats,
• skin tumors,
• drug reactions (sensitivity to griseofulvin),
• portal-systemic anastomosis,
• tumors (basal cell tumor),
• corneal necrosis,
• congenital cataracts,
• calcium oxalate urolithiasis.

Japanese Bobtail - how many cats of this breed live?

The Japanese Bobtail cat lives around 15 - 18 years old.

Japanese Bobtails are generally healthy cats but may be predisposed to the following diseases:

• Hypothyroidism,
• diabetes,
• chronic kidney disease,
• obesity,
• spina bifida.

How long does the Javanese cat live?

The Javanese cat lives approx 10 - 15 years.

The same problems that affect Siamese cats can also occur in Javanese cats, including:

• amyloidosis,
• bronchial disease / asthma,
• congenital heart defects (e.g. aortic stenosis),
• squint,
• digestive tract disorders, e.g. giant esophagus,
• hyperesthesia (hyperesthesia),
• lymphoma,
• nystagmus,
• progressive degeneration of the retina.

Californian spangled - how long do cats of this breed live?

Californian spangled lives approx 9 - 16 years.

Apart from typical feline diseases, this breed is not burdened with serious genetic diseases.

How much does a Carthusian cat live?

The Carthusian cat lives approx 12 - 15 years.

How much does a Carthusian cat live?

Carthusian cats may be predisposed to dislocation of the patella.

Besides, they are relatively healthy cats.

How long do Korat cats live?

Korat lives approx 10 - 15 years, and even longer.

Korats are in good health, but may be prone to genetic diseases:

genetic degenerative neuromuscular disease:

• GM1 gangliosidosis,
• GM2 gangliosidosis (lysosomal storage diseases).

In addition, they have a low content of adipose tissue, which means they can be sensitive to anesthesia.

Laperm cat - how many lives?

Laperm cat lives approx 10 - 15 years.

So far, this breed has not been found to be burdened with serious genetic diseases.

How much does a Maine Coon cat live?

The Maine Coon cat lives approx 12 - 15 years.

How much does a Maine Coon cat live?

Unfortunately, these cats are burdened with certain genetic diseases that can significantly affect the length of their survival.

The causes of the early death of many representatives Maine Coon include:

• hip dysplasia,
• hypertrophic cardiomyopathy,
• renal cystic syndrome.

How long does the manks cat live?

The manks breed cat lives approx 8 - 14 years old.

The following diseases were observed in this breed:

• coccyx artritis in cats with partial tails,
• corneal dystrophy - symptoms begin at approx 4 months,
• Manx syndrome, a syndrome of birth defects that may include: sacral dysgenesis (spine too short), urinary tract defects, bowel and digestive problems; this disorder affects approx twenty% cats of this breed,
• giant colon and constipation,
• prolapse of the rectum,
• corneal dystrophy.

Munchkin cat - life expectancy

The munchkin cat lives approx 12 - 15 years.

Although these cats can live a long life, they do have certain conditions that may lead to early departure and are generally related to their short legs. These are:

• lordosis - this is a defect of the spine, consisting in its excessive bending, which can put pressure on the underlying structures (heart, lungs, trachea); this condition can even lead to death,
• funnel-shaped (concave) chest, most likely related to a genetic mutation.

How much does a nebelung cat live?

The nebelung cat lives approx 15 - 18 years old.

It is a relatively healthy breed that can develop typical cat diseases.

The owners of cats of this breed mention an exceptionally good appetite, so it is important to monitor the kitten's body weight and prevent obesity.

What is the life expectancy of a Norwegian Forest Cat?

The Norwegian Forest Cat lives approx 14 - 16 years old.

What is the life expectancy of a Norwegian Forest Cat?

Norwegian Forest Cats are generally healthy cats with a long lifespan.

However, the following diseases are observed in the breed:

• glycogenosis (type IV glycogenic storage disease) - most newborns are dead or kittens die shortly after birth; it happens that the development of the disease is longer - in the first 5 months it is asymptomatic, after which death occurs in a short time; carriers of this disease can be identified using a genetic test;
• hypertrophic cardiomyopathy,
• polycystic kidney disease,
• retinal dysplasia,
• hip dysplasia.

How many ocicat lives?

Ocicat lives approx 10 - 15 years.

Cats of relatively good health, however, this breed has a certain predisposition to diseases:

• progressive degeneration of the retina,
• hypertrophic cardiomyopathy,
• kidney and / or liver amyloidosis,
• periodontal disease.

How long does an oriental shorthair cat live?

The oriental shorthair cat lives approx 10 - 15 years.

It can suffer from the same diseases as Siamese cats.

These are among others:

• amyloidosis,
• bronchial disease / asthma,
• congenital heart defects, e.g. aortic stenosis,
• squint,
• problems related to the digestive system, such as. giant esophagus,
• hyperesthesia,
• lymphoma,
• nystagmus,
• progressive degeneration of the retina,
• psychogenic alopecia.

How much does a Persian cat live?

The Persian cat lives approx 15 years (and above).

How much does a Persian cat live?

They do not differ substantially from the average life expectancy of cats.

However, they do have hereditary diseases, such as:

• polycystic kidney syndrome,
• hypertrophic cardiomyopathy,
• bladder problems,
• portal-systemic anastomoses.

These cats belong to the brachycephalic breed, hence most health problems are related to the conformation of the skull.

• breathing problems and noisy breathing (caused by narrowed nostrils),
• prognathism (lower jaw longer than the upper jaw; taken as a breed standard); malposition of the teeth,
• excessive tearing,
• ophthalmic problems:
  • "Cherry eye ",
  • entropium,
  • obstruction of nasolacrimal tubules,
• hypersensitivity to heat,
• polycystic kidney disease,
• predisposition to fungal infections,
• primary seborrhea,
• hypertrophic cardiomyopathy,
• peritoneal-pericardial diaphragmatic hernia,
• systemic lupus erythematosus,
• Hediak-Chigashi syndrome (only in Persian blue smoke cats),
• idiopathic periocular pustulosis,
• pyoderma of the face folds,
• idiopathic dermatitis of the face of Persian and Himalayan cats,
• multiple epidermal cysts,
• skin tumors,
• drug reactions (hypersensitivity to griseofulvin),
• congenital portal-systemic anastomosis,
• congenital polycystic disease of the liver,
• cancers:
  • basal cell tumor,
  • tumors of the sebaceous glands,
• lysosomal storage disease - alpha mannosidosis,
• congenital defects of the eye structures,
• corneal necrosis,
• tear point aplasia,
• congenital cataracts,
• progressive degeneration of the retina,
• calcium oxalate urolithiasis,
• cryptorchidism.

How many pixie bob cats live?

Pixie Bob the cat lives around 12 years.

How many pixie bob cats live?

They are relatively healthy cats.

However, this breed also has a tendency to certain disease states.

Relatively frequent cryptorchidism and breeding problems mean that such individuals are eliminated from breeding.

In addition, it happens quite often with them polydactyly - multi-fingered.

However, these are not life-threatening conditions.

They tend to develop hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

How long do ragdoll cats live?

The Ragdoll cat lives approx 9 - 15 years.

How long do ragdoll cats live?

Health problems that may affect Ragdoll cats include:

• hypertrophic cardiomyopathy,
• calcium oxalate,
• increased predisposition to feline infectious peritonitis (FIP).

Russian blue cat - how much is alive?

The Russian blue cat lives approx 15 - 20 years.

Russian blue cat - how much is alive?

There were no typical genetic burdens that could affect the lifespan of Russian Blue Cats.

Like most purebred animals, they can be prone to any kind infectious diseases, me too kidney disease if urolithiasis.

In addition, they are known for their huge appetite, which - uncontrolled - can lead to obesity and diseases that are its consequences.

My personal female cat developed dilated cardiomyopathy, but in most cases these cats are longevity.

Savannah cat - how many lives?

The savannah cat lives around 15 - 20 years.

Savannah cat - how many lives?

Savannah cats can suffer from hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

Certain cosmetic defects may prevent them from participating in shows, but this does not affect the lifespan of these cats.

How much does the Singapore cat live?

The Singapore cat lives approx 9 - 15 years.

One of the major genetic problems in these cats is pyruvate kinase deficiency, effective hemolytic anemia.

How Much Does a Snowshoe Cat Live??

The snowshoe cat lives approx 12 - 15 years.

Snowshoe cat

Generally healthy cats.

They have some cosmetic defects, such as strabismus or kinking of the tail, but they do not affect their lifespan.

How much does a sokoke cat live?

The sokoke cat lives around 9 - 15 years.

In the past, these cats were more prone to infectious diseases, but regular vaccinations solved this problem.

They are not burdened with genetic diseases.

Scottish fold - life expectancy

The Scottish fold cat lives around 15 years.

Scottish fold - life expectancy

Diseases that affect the lifespan of this breed include:

• Osteoarthritis (especially in the tail, but also in the ankles and knees), leading to stiffness, pain and lameness,
• hypertrophic cardiomyopathy,
• polycystic kidney disease,
• excessive tearing.

How much does a Siberian cat live?

The Siberian cat lives approx 11 - 15 years.

How much does a Siberian cat live?

It is a relatively healthy breed, although there is a serious tendency to occur in it hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

How many Siamese cats live?

The Siamese cat lives approx 15 - 20 years.

How much does a Siamese cat live?

Possessors of amazing eyes and exceptional vocal abilities are characterized by quite good health.

However, they are predisposed to dental, respiratory and circulatory diseases, or certain types of cancer.

Siamese cat diseases are:

• liver amyloidosis,
• bronchial disease / asthma,
• aortic stenosis,
• dilated cardiomyopathy,
• endocardial fibroelastosis,
• patent ductus arteriosus,
• persistent arrest of atrial action,
• increased sensitivity to:
  • blastomycosis,
  • cryptococcosis,
  • histoplasmosis,
  • demodecosis;
• food hypersensitivity,
• systemic lupus erythematosus,
• alopecia of the auricles,
• pemphigus,
• congenital hypothyriosis,
• acromelanism,
• albinism,
• psychogenic alopecia,
• tail sucking,
• congenital eyelid defects,
• skin tumors,
• drug reactions (hypersensitivity to griseofulvin),
• tumors of the parathyroid glands,
• insulinoma,
• cleft palate,
• congenital idiopathic giant esophagus,
• pyloric dysfunction,
• adenocarcinoma of the small intestine,
• congenital portal-systemic anastomosis,
• type B hemophilia,
• hereditary porphyria,
• hip dysplasia,
• congenital myasthenia gravis,
• cancers:
  • mast cell tumor,
  • lipomas,
  • basal cell tumors,
  • tumor of the sweat glands,
  • nasal cavity tumors,
  • adenocarcinoma of the small intestine,
  • mammary gland tumors,
• vestibular disease,
• congenital deafness,
• hydrocephalus,
• lysosomal storage diseases:
  • GM1 gangliosidosis,
  • ceroid lipofuscinosis,
  • sphingomyelinosis,
  • type VI mucopolysaccharidosis;
• hyperesthesia syndrome,
• convergent strabismus and nystagmus,
• glaucoma,
• congenital cataracts,
• spherical lens,
• retinal degeneration,
• lymph in the pleural cavity,
• polycystic kidney disease.

How long does a Somali cat live?

The Somali cat lives around 11 - 16 years old.

Problems that may be faced by cats of this breed include:

• early periodontal diseases,
• hyperesthesia,
• dislocation of the kneecap,
• progressive degeneration of the retina,
• pyruvate kinase deficiency,
• kidney amyloidosis,
• increased osmotic sensitivity of red blood cells,
• myasthenia gravis.

How long does the sphinx cat live?

The sphinx cat lives around 13 - 15 years.

How long does the sphinx cat live?

Like many purebred cats, they tend to have hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

They are generally healthy, but - due to the characteristic exterior - they can easily lose heat.

One of the skin conditions common to these cats is pigmented urticaria.

How many Tonkinese cats live?

The Tonkinese cat lives approx 10 - 16 years.

How many Tonkinese cats live?

These cats generally enjoy good health, although they do have it hypersensitivity to anesthesia.

They may have disorders common to their distant ancestors (Siamese cats):

• gingivitis,
• amyloidosis,
• bronchial disease / asthma,
• congenital heart disease (e.g. aortic stenosis),
• giant esophagus,
• hyperesthesia,
• lymphoma,
• nystagmus,
• progressive degeneration of the retina,
• congenital vestibular disease.

How much does the Turkish Van cat live?

The Turkish Van cat lives approx 12 - 14 years old.

How much does the Turkish Van cat live?

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy can occur in cats of this breed, but it has not been proven that it is hereditary.

The longest-lived cat breeds

Of course, there is no need to remind you that the longest live is the so-called "hybrids ", i.e. non-purebred (or "multiracial ") cats ?

Siamese and Burmese cats are characterized by exceptional longevity - one famous Burmese lived up to 35 years.

Influence of coat color on disease incidence in cats

Influence of coat color on disease incidence in cats

White

The diseases seen in cats with this color are:

• deafness in blue-eyed cats.
• skin cancer.

Colorpoint

The diseases seen in cats with this color are:

• excessive tearing,
• hypersensitivity of the senses,
• pulling one's hair out,
• sinus problems.

Tortoiseshell

This color can be found in many domestic cats.

Most tortoiseshells are female.

If there is a tortoiseshell male (which is extremely rare), most likely he will be infertile and may have health problems, which is also associated with a shorter life span.

Cats, on the other hand, do not have this type of problem.

Calico (tortoiseshell with white)

Like tortoiseshells, they can be found among representatives of many races.

They have similar health problems to them.

For the cat to have a color calico, two X chromosomes must be present.

So for a male to have the calico pattern, it must have an XXY chromosome set, which means already specific health problems, sterility and shorter service life.

Rude

The frequency of red hair in cats depends on the sex - it is higher in males, although red females are also found.

Black

The most numerous of all ointments.

A noteworthy feature is the fact that (according to a study that appeared in PLOS Genetics) black cats live longer than other cats.

According to these studies, there are some correlations between the black color of the hair and skin and longevity.

sex

The sex of the cat

Females generally live longer than male cats.

As you can see, there are quite big differences between the average life expectancy of individual breeds.

But this is not the only property that affects the lifespan of cats.

Even if our furry jacket belongs to the so-called. long-lived race, and there will be situations directly affecting his health, it is useless that according to the "plan " he was to live longer.

Way of life

Cat's way of life

Whether cats are only indoors, outdoors, or outdoors, is one of the most important factors in determining your cat's lifespan.

Not because of some predisposition predetermined by nature, but rather because of the fact that there is a greater risk of an accident (especially in young animals), exposure to infectious diseases, or meeting other animals.

Indeed, statistically, kittens that come out regularly live shorter lives than their wild brethren.

For example, road traffic accidents are the most common cause of death in cats before the age of one.

After entering adulthood, cats somehow learn the dangers and the percentage of death from an accident decreases.

So cats staying at home, without the possibility of going out, avoid many daring situations that often happen to wandering pets.

Communication risks are only part of the real risk that free-living cats lurk.

Poisons, diseases, traps, human cruelty, attacks from other animals - this is a pool of threats that, in most cases, cannot be avoided.

No wonder that cats that stay only at home have a greater chance of "extending " their life expectancy.

Frisk, living in the safe environment of a family fire, protected from changing weather, spending time on a comfortable couch, among his loving households, whose only concern is whether he will get a salmon or a rabbit for dinner today, inevitably avoids situations that could contribute to to shorten his lifespan.

Living with a clean litter box, a personal lair that provides the opportunity to take a nap at any time, regular meals, medical check-ups and beauty treatments - what more could you want to lead a carefree, happy and long life?

But is it really that simple and it is enough to keep a cat at home to enjoy it for many years?

Not necessarily.

Life expectancy is a function of many factors, and indoor cats also have their own personal list of risk factors.

Let's take a look at the fur that spends time only at home.

He was castrated when he was a kitten.

His physical activity is limited to a short game with a fur mouse or chasing a ball.

It doesn't need to hunt, it doesn't need to run away from predators.

Its metabolism slows down considerably, and the predisposition to gain weight increases proportionally to this.

In addition, there is stress related to the lack of satisfaction of basic needs.

Cats are highly territorial animals whose natural instincts lead to expanding the habitat of their existence.

A large proportion of the cat population accepts closure and has no problem with it, while the rest of the cats really need the freedom of hiking alone.

No wonder that sometimes even cats that do not go out develop certain diseases - they could be called "civilization ", which are related to the lack of exercise or the inability to satisfy their natural instincts.

2 different lifestyles: "outdoor " and "indoor "

To let the cat out or not?

The average life expectancy of animals staying exclusively at home is okay. 12 - 15 years.

Some argue that keeping your cat locked up for life is cruel and should be prohibited.

However, the numbers speak for themselves - cats that spend most of their lives at home have a dramatically longer life span (up to 3 times!) from wild cats, homeless or mainly outdoors.

It is not only associated with a lower risk of accidents.

Domestic cats are usually neutered, vaccinated, regularly dewormed, examined and "viewed " by the guardian during grooming treatments or even during normal play.

Any disturbing symptoms are noticed faster in them, possible therapy of disorders is introduced on time, and the kitten - under the watchful eye of its guardian - also goes through the recovery period more easily.

Such home flies systematically eat meals that are healthy and properly balanced, they also have constant access to clean and fresh water.

Thus, almost all conditions for a hygienic and healthy lifestyle are met.

Unfortunately, such animals become "lazy " quite quickly, and if they tend to gain weight - they easily become overweight or obese.

An animal that spends most of its time outside or a homeless person experiences constant stress related to the experience.

This is not a bad thing - stress in the right amount and intensity is necessary and harmless.

However, "living on the street " requires the cat to be constantly vigilant, because it has to get food on its own, run away from predators, hide from unkind people, avoid life-threatening situations.

In addition to hunger, cold and constant fear, she may also face pregnancy (in the case of cats), complications in childbirth, then there is concern for babies and the need to get more food.

And again, exposure to predators, now other cats can also be a threat, besides diseases, parasites, poisoning and many, many others.

No wonder that cats live in the wild often they do not reach 5 years of age, by dying or dying prematurely.

Nevertheless, it must be admitted that animals living outside lead a much more interesting life than those who only know a space limited by walls.

The number of years that such a furry dog ​​can survive under unfavorable conditions varies from 3 to even 10, and it depends on the exposure and the frequency of hazardous or life-threatening situations.

It is not easy to decide whether to confine the cat within four walls or to let it go out, while increasing the risk of some mishap.

However, you can combine business with pleasure.

If you have some space at your disposal, then - with little time and money - you can build an outdoor area for your kitten called "catio ".

There are a lot of suggestions on the Internet, what it can look like, and everything really depends on the possibilities and imagination of the designer.

Thanks to this, you can give your cat a "substitute " of freedom, while being calm that nothing bad will happen to him. If, on the other hand, you cannot afford this type of convenience, you can try teaching your cat to go for walks on a leash.

This will allow him to catch some fresh air and at the same time ensure physical activity without exposing him to the dangers lurking in the shadows.

The question is whether your cat will accept this way of spending time, and whether it will really make him happy.

Medical history

Medical history has an impact on your cat's lifespan

Whether and what your cat suffered from in the past may be important for his future.

It happens that certain diseases pass without any consequences for the body, but there are some that may turn out to be dangerous.

Let's take an example feline coronavirus.

It is a common cause of diarrheal infections in young kittens and passes without a trace many times.

However, contact with this virus and its subsequent mutation can lead to a serious, incurable disease called feline infectious peritonitis, which disease will inevitably shorten the cat's life.

The real butterfly effect in its classic form

…

So if your person was ill, collect detailed documentation of the entire medical history and do not forget to present it to the doctor in a situation where his help is needed again.

You never know if this information will help your cat diagnose and heal faster.

Antiparasitic prophylaxis and regular vaccinations of the cat

Cat deworming

An extremely important element, often deciding about the life of your pet.

There is no doubt that the animal should be protected against external and internal parasites.

It is a necessity regular deworming and application anti-flea agents, anti-ticks and others.

The same applies to vaccinating cats.

Cats that have not been vaccinated against infectious diseases but have been in contact with germs are likely to become ill.

However, vaccination should be handled very carefully and the risk of exposure to pathogens should always be considered.

On the other side of the barricade, there is a deadly injection sarcoma, which often develops as a result of previous vaccinations (especially against feline leukemia and rabies).

If you have any doubts or questions about deworming or vaccinations, always share them with your vet.

It will certainly help you determine the exact schedule of necessary treatments.

Remember - prevention is always better than cure!

Regular visits and checkups with a veterinarian

Regular visits and checkups with a veterinarian

An element that cannot be overestimated.

How many hidden diseases and pathological conditions were exposed during a review examination in a veterinary office!

Even if you are a caring, perceptive and loving owner, some malfunctions in a cat's health may simply escape your attention.

Some diseases run for some time in the so-called. a subclinical phase during which symptoms are either very weak or absent.

Hence, regular blood tests, ultrasound of the abdominal cavity, urine test or stool examination should be performed at least once a year, and in cats at risk or older, even more often.

Most pathologies detected in the early stages are curable! Therefore, do not postpone check-ups at the vet.

Dental care

Cleaning the cat's teeth

What the shell will soak up when you are young

…

Cat oral hygiene is an extremely important element of prophylaxis.

Therefore, from an early age, get your fur used to regular teeth cleaning, and this way you will avoid many problems, not only from the mouth and teeth, but also from systemic.

If plaque does appear or - worse - it starts to build up with tartar - try to do it regularly teeth cleaning in the office.

This is of utmost importance for your cat's health and has a major impact on your cat's lifespan.

Many breeds have a genetic predilection for diseases of the mouth and teeth.

Take care of the dental condition of your ward from the beginning, and maybe he will be saved from many health problems.

Diet affects your cat's lifespan

The right diet has an impact on your cat's lifespan!

A healthy, well-balanced diet, combined with physical activity, plays a significant role in keeping your cat healthy for many years.

When a kitten becomes ill, diet is also a factor supporting the therapy.

Its importance in taking care of health cannot be overestimated.

You are what you eat.

This saying also holds true for animals.

A good appetite is one of the signs of good health, however, overfeeding the person you care for inevitably leads to overweight and obesity.

In addition to the problems associated with these two conditions, obesity contributes to your pet's premature death. I found information that every extra kilogram of a cat's body shortens its life by about 6 months.

Therefore, to ensure a long life for your cat, ensure that the food is well-balanced in relation to its needs and age, and encourage regular physical activity.

Does the nature of the cat affect life expectancy??

Does the nature of the cat affect life expectancy??

Yes, a cat's temperament, character and interests significantly influence its survival time.

Outdoor cats that show deep social ties with their kinsmen may unknowingly expose themselves to the transmission of infectious diseases.

Mutual grooming, increased contact with other (often unknown) cats, licking and nibbling can be sources of infection.

On the other hand, kittens who are careful, avoid strangers, and do not interact may feel a bit safer in this regard.

There are also extremely curious individuals (especially when it comes to young kittens), which - driven by a natural need to learn about the world - thus expose themselves to numerous dangers.

I think your cat's disposition should be one of the main factors you will consider when considering whether you want them to be an exclusively indoor pet or give them some freedom.

Castration / sterilization

Surgical castration is recommended by veterinarians not only to reduce the population of wild cats.

It also has important medical implications.

The castration of males results in a decreased interest in vagrancy, fights with other cats, thanks to which the risk of accidents and transmission of infectious diseases is substantially limited.

It is also easier to convince such a kitten to be exclusively at home.

In addition, it is a preventive factor against the occurrence of prostate diseases or testicular cancer.

In cats, sterilization prevents the occurrence of such serious diseases as:

• ovarian cysts,
• mammary gland tumors,
• inflammation of the uterus (including pyomyositis).

However, animals that have been deprived of their reproductive organs become calmer and less active, which increases their tendency to gain weight.

From here, it is only a step to overweight, obesity and even diabetes.

Therefore, you should pay special attention to the amount and type of food eaten by your pet.

However, the most important factor that influences your cat's lifespan is simply health.

The age of the cat

To estimate how many "human " years our student is, his age was often multiplied by 7.

However, this is not an exact conversion factor, as in the first year of life cats go through such important periods as infancy, childhood and adolescence.

This is because these animals grow up and mature much faster than humans; therefore it is not possible to reduce this time to a simple equation.

There is a chart made by the American Animal Hospital Association and the American Association from Feline Practicioners that helps to better understand the life span of our feline brethren.

Table cat age

The age of the cat. The age of the human

1 month	1 year
2 months	24 years
Four months	6 - 8 years
6 months	10 years
7-8 months	12 - 13 years old
1 year	15 years
2 years	21 years
3 years	28 years
4 years	32 years
5 years	36 years
6 years	40 years
7 years	44 years
8 years	48 years
9 years	52 years
10 years	56 years
11 years	60 years
12 years	64 years
13 years	68 years
14 years	72 years
15 years	76 years old
16 years	80 years
17 years	84 years
18 years	88 years
19 years	92 years
Twenty years	96 years
21 years	100 years

If your cat is over 20 years old, add 4 human years for every more year.

This way you will find out how old your pet would be if it were human.

It will also allow you to understand the processes that take place in his body, adjust proper nutrition and look differently at the need for more frequent visits to the veterinarian.

What happens when a cat grows old?

As the years progress, many structural and functional changes occur in feline organisms, which is often reflected in the cat's behavior.

It is nothing but aging.

You can notice its first symptoms at age 8 years, although it is generally considered to be older 10-year-old cats.

As a rule, neglect of care or the problem with washing comes to the fore.

In older cats, the fur is dull, stuck together, dreadlocks and tangles are visible in places.

Cats that additionally suffer from obesity or arthritis refuse to care for the fact that all attempts to bend and move are either almost impossible or even painful.

No wonder that day after day they move less and less, neglecting even such an important activity as caring for their hair.

And from here it is only a step to inflammation of the skin, which - if not properly cared for - lets you know very quickly about its not very good condition.

Skin diseases are additionally aggravated by the fact that it is no longer as firm, healthy tissue as before; it has become thinner, less flexible, blood circulation within it may be impaired.

All wounds take longer to heal, which is due to both the condition of the skin and certain protein deficiencies.

This is evident in the appearance of the claws, which become brittle, brittle and require more frequent trimming from you.

Frequent inflammation of the gums and periodontitis are situations that can see the light of day at an earlier age, but now they become really bothersome.

Over the years, the accumulated tartar now makes itself felt - it burns deep into the tissues, irritates the gums, aggravates infections.

Your cat starts to smell different, although the odor coming from the mouth is hardly a smell.

This is also the age when clinical symptoms of chronic renal failure, diabetes and hyperthyroidism develop.

The immune system of older animals becomes less and less able to defend itself against pathogens.

The second period begins - after "childhood", in which our pet's body is more exposed to infections.

As you age, you may notice progressive hearing loss and changes in your eyes, such as. corneal clouding, which may indicate the merciless passage of time.

You may notice a decrease in your interest in eating.

If it is not based on pathological conditions occurring in the cat's body, it may indicate a gradual loss of smell.

Cats "eat with their noses ", therefore the lack of appetite may be due to the fact that the food simply stops smelling for them.

However, gingivitis or dental disease is a more common and likely cause of loss of appetite.

Old feline cats also suffer from degenerative or inflammatory conditions in their joints and bones.

Noticeable problems in using the litter box, difficulties in moving, reluctance to jump - all these are signals that can be sent by a cat in response to pathological processes taking place in its joints.

At a very advanced age, symptoms of dementia are possible:

• cats wander aimlessly,
• they meow excessively,
• are confused,
• avoid contact.

The most common diseases of older cats

The most common diseases of older cats

In one study on cat mortality, the most common causes were:

• trauma 12.2%
• kidney disease 12.1%
• undefined disease 11.2%
• cancer 10.8%
• disorders related to large tumors 10.2%.

Immediately behind them there is a whole range of diseases and disorders that - in older cats - lead to a shortening of their life.

It is worth getting acquainted with these diseases, because knowing their symptoms may lead you to an earlier than planned visit to the veterinarian.

Obesity in a cat

It is a condition that most often affects older cats (usually over 7 years of age), in which the metabolic rate slows down, and the lifestyle and wide availability of food predispose to the accumulation of fat here and there.

This can be difficult to see at first, and just checking your weight can give you a deceptive sense of peace.

What is the norm in kilograms for one cat may be overweight for another.

Body weight depends on many factors, among which race, body structure and size play the greatest role.

It happens that a tall, slim, but muscular cat weighs more than its smaller but squat mate.

What are the factors influencing the increased predisposition to the accumulation of adipose tissue in cats??

Of course, the inadequate diet comes to the fore.

Overfeeding, too much carbohydrate content in the food, unlimited access to food around the clock, giving the cat the so-called. table scraps - these are the primary causes that greatly affect the increase in caloric intake and, consequently, gaining weight.

Earlier castration / sterilization.

The decrease in activity after the removal of the genital organs (and the associated hormonal disturbance) in the absence of a change in diet increases the tendency to gain weight.

Race

There are certain breeds that are characterized by an unrestrained appetite and an increased predisposition to gain weight.

An example could be ours European shorthair cat.

Age

As the body ages, its activity decreases and, as a consequence, metabolic processes slow down.

Hence also in age over 5 - 7 years oldt there is a noticeable increase in adipose tissue, especially on the cat's abdomen, but also in other parts of the body.

sex

Males are more prone to gaining weight than females.

Lifestyle

It is obvious that indoor cats are more likely to develop obesity than outdoor cats.

The disposition of the cat

Stressed, nervous cats, left alone for a long time at home can develop excessive appetite and thus deal with stress.

On the other hand, cats with a lively temperament, active ones, have a lower tendency to gain weight.

Diseases

Various disease states, especially those that limit the cat's motility, may predispose to the accumulation of adipose tissue.

Drugs, especially glucocorticosteroids and contraceptives increase appetite, and thus - cause rapid weight gain in a fairly short time.

Knowing the main mechanisms responsible for gaining weight, you can now modify the diet, diversify the environment of your cat to encourage him to increase physical activity, and also (if possible) limit or completely exclude the administration of certain medications.

In this way, you have a real and very specific influence on extending the life of your pet.

Hypertension

Cat hypertension is a serious disorder that can significantly affect a cat's lifespan.

Unfortunately, our client will not tell us that his blood pressure is too high, clinical symptoms are also poorly expressed and can be completely ignored.

Hypertension occurs in the course of many diseases, especially in cats over 10 years of age.

The development of hypertension in cats most often occurs in the course of the following diseases and clinical conditions:

• obesity,
• overactive thyroid gland,
• chronic kidney disease,
• heart diseases,
• overactive adrenal cortex,
• phaeochromocytoma,
• acromegaly.

Hypertension does not make itself felt for a long time, therefore an unaware guardian may not have any idea that his pet has such a condition.

However, there are some symptoms that may indicate that your blood pressure is too high:

• apathy,
• lack of appetite,
• depression,
• anxiety,
• fatigue,
• breathing disorders,
• increased water uptake, polyuria,
• visual disturbances, blindness, haemorrhage in the anterior chamber of the eye or the retina,
• retinal detachment,
• glaucoma,
• neurological disorders (head turning, convulsions, head pressing against obstacles).

Hypertension always complicates the course of the underlying disease, but the earlier it is detected, the greater the chances of its normalization.

Therefore, a lot depends on you - observation and quick reaction can help your cat and extend its life expectancy.

Diabetes

The most common diabetic patient is a middle-aged or older (over 6 years old), castrated, male, usually overweight and inactive lifestyle.

Siamese and Burmese cats are predisposed to diabetes.

There are many causes of this disease in cats, but the most important of them are:

• obesity resulting from improper diet and lack of exercise,
• genetic and racial predisposition,
• the use of certain medications (e.g. hormonal contraception, glucocorticosteroids),
• diabetes can also be a consequence or a descendant of other diseases, e.g.
  • pancreatitis,
  • pancreatic cancer,
  • overactive thyroid gland,
  • pituitary tumor.

The symptoms of this disease include:

• excessive thirst,
• increased amount and frequency of urination,
• increased appetite with a simultaneous weight loss and noticeable weight loss,
• neurological disorders - problems with sticking out and retracting claws, diabetic neuropathy (putting the whole foot on the floor), abduction of the pelvic limb,
• skin diseases,
• unpleasant smell from the mouth.

Diabetes - especially if left untreated - can be fatal, so it is of utmost importance to diagnose it quickly and start treatment.

Inflammation of the intestines

Cats, especially older cats, may develop digestive disorders, collectively referred to as inflammatory bowel diseases.

The most important reasons for their occurrence are:

• previous inflammation and gastrointestinal infections,
• immune system disorders,
• genetic disposition,
• improper nutrition.

In the cat, progressive emaciation is noticeable, and periodically appearing vomiting and / or diarrhea intensify the exhaustion and mineral and vitamin deficiencies.

Appears:

• apathy,
• lack of appetite,
• sometimes increased thirst.

Diarrhea may be accompanied by blood in the stools.

Sometimes the symptoms are mildly intense, and the only deviation from the norm is the abnormal consistency of the faeces.

Inflammatory bowel diseases lead to a significant deterioration of the body.

Heart and circulatory failure

One of the main reasons for the significant reduction in survival time in cats, especially in predisposed breeds.

The flagship example of a disease that often takes its toll among the cat population is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

The races most predisposed to developing heart disease are:

• Maine coon,
• ragdoll,
• american shorthair,
• Persian cat,
• british shorthair,
• Norwegian Forest Cat,
• Turkish van,
• Scottish fold,
• sphinx,
• Devonian rex,
• Burmese cat,
• russian blue cat,
• Bengal cat,
• Siberian cats.

However, not belonging to a breed with the disease does not mean that your cat will not develop heart disease.

Therefore, if you notice the following symptoms:

• lack of appetite,
• apathy,
• fast fatigue,
• breathing problems, shortness of breath,
• mucous membranes blue or pale,
• enlarging the outline of the abdominal wall,
• sudden loss of walking, lameness; the limb (or both) feels cool to the touch and very painful,
• fainting,

take your cat to the vet as soon as possible. These can be symptoms of a heart disease which, if not diagnosed early and if left untreated, can lead to death.

Oral and periodontal diseases

Diseases of the oral cavity are one of the most common reasons for consultations in veterinary offices, and they mainly concern middle-aged or elderly cats.

The most common cause is periodontal disease, the so-called. periodontitis.

As a result of the deposition of dental plaque and the action of bacteria, an inflammatory process takes place, including the structures of the periodontium.

The consequence of this is swelling, redness, pain in the gums and the resulting inability to eat.

One of the widespread diseases affecting the mouth of cats is feline plasmocytic stomatitis.

The breeds predisposed to its occurrence are:

• Abyssinian,
• Persian,
• Himalayan,
• Burmese,
• Siamese,
• Somali.

The first symptom noticeable by the owner is an unpleasant smell from the cat's mouth.

This may be accompanied by an aversion to eating.

Sometimes the kitten has a healthy appetite, wants to eat, but due to pain it is unable to chew the food and either spits it out or swallows bites without biting it.

The cat may also make strange noises or meow when eating. In advanced conditions, excessive salivation occurs, and saliva is often stained with blood.

Urolithiasis

One of the most common disorders of the feline urinary tract.

There are many reasons for the precipitation of crystals in the urine, leading to urolithiasis, and the most important are race and diet.

In addition, previous urinary tract infections, kidney disease, metabolic or hormonal disorders can also influence the formation of stones in the urinary tract.

Symptoms of cat urolithiasis include:

• urination disorders, pollakiuria, urge to urinate, reluctance to use the litter box,
• blood in the urine,
• lack of urination,
• severe soreness in the abdomen,
• vocalization, loud meowing when urinating.

If the urinary tract is blocked by a stone, the urethra may perforate or even rupture the bladder rapidly, which are life-threatening conditions.

Chronic kidney disease

Kidney disease is one of the most common diseases in old cats, and after the age of 5, the leading cause of death in cats is kidney disease.

The etiology of kidney disease is very complex, but it can be reduced to several main components:

• racial predilection,
• meat-based diet,
• previous urinary tract infections,
• poisoning.

Unfortunately, this disease - in its chronic stage - often leads to death.

Therefore, it is important to be able to recognize the symptoms of chronic kidney failure, because the sooner treatment is started, the better the chances of prolonging life and managing the disease.

Look out for the following symptoms in your cat:

• lack of appetite,
• increased thirst,
• frequent urination,
• weight loss, emaciation,
• vomiting (may be discolored with blood),
• diarrhea (rarely),
• unpleasant, ammoniacal smell from the mouth,
• apathy, reluctance to move,
• dull coat, no cat grooming,
• mouth ulcers,
• gingivitis,
• neurological disorders:
  • trembling,
  • seizures,
  • mobility problems,
  • behavioral changes.

Overactive thyroid gland

Hyperthyroidism is the most common endocrine disorder in cats, and the approximate age of onset of its first symptoms is estimated at around 10 years old.

One of the main causes of hyperthyroidism is benign neoplastic growths within this organ.

Just 5% cases are malignant neoplasms, most often thyroid adenocarcinomas.

The primary symptoms of an overactive thyroid in cats include:

• increased appetite,
• increased thirst,
• increased urination,
• restlessness, agitation, and in some cats also aggression,
• increased physical activity,
• weight loss,
• increased heart rate,
• vomiting,
• diarrhea.

This disease requires appropriate treatment, so be alert to the appearance of these symptoms.

Joint degeneration

Even u 90% of cats over the age of 12 years old you will develop osteoarthritis.

Unfortunately, in most cases it is undiagnosed, because cats skillfully mask the pain, and their owners explain the reduction of physical activity and the choice of a static lifestyle of their cat to the old age of their cat.

The elbows and hip joints are most often affected.

Which could make you suspect your cat has osteoarthritis?

• change in the cat's behavior - reluctance to move, go out or descend stairs, avoid jumping,
• stiffness of movements,
• longer naps, constant reliance,
• loss of interest in caresses, not allowing sore spots to be touched,
• lameness.

It is important that you take your cat to the doctor, as long-lasting joint problems not only cause pain and significant discomfort for your pet, but can also predispose to gaining weight.

Liver disease

Liver disease can affect older cats and obesity is one of the main predisposing factors.

A very common liver disease in cats is hers fatty tissue.

Inflammation of the liver and bile ducts is also not uncommon.

Regardless of the mechanism leading to the failure of this organ, all its pathologies are potentially fatal.

Therefore, look out for the following symptoms that may suggest your cat's liver is not functioning as it should:

• lack of appetite,
• vomiting,
• diarrhea,
• abdominal enlargement,
• yellow discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes,
• neurological disorders.

Ophthalmic problems

In older cats, eye disease is often associated with high blood pressure or diabetes.

However, also such "minor" diseases as infections can cause ophthalmic problems.

The most common symptoms of eye disorders are:

• redness of the eyelids,
• frequent blinking, eyelid closing,
• intense tearing,
• purulent, mucous, or bloody discharge from the eyes,
• sensitivity to light,
• swelling of the eyelids,
• restless behavior, especially when manipulating with the eyes,
• change in the color of the cornea of ​​the eye,
• enlargement and / or hardening of the eyeball,
• stare or eyes bulging.

Older cats develop cataracts or glaucoma quite frequently.

Malignant neoplasms

Milk bar cancer, injection sarcoma and lymphoma are the three most common malignancies in cats.

To minimize the risk of developing breast tumors, it is best sterilize the kitten and do not use hormonal contraception.

The incidence of post-vaccination tumors can also be reduced by rational selection of vaccine types and injection sites.

As for lymphoma, vaccination against feline leukemia is the only way to reduce the risk of developing lymphoma, but this procedure may not rule out the appearance of this cancer in cats.

Anemia

In cats with a genetic predisposition to occur pyruvate kinase deficiency you may develop anemia.

However, this is not the only reason.

The following can also lead to the development of anemia in a cat:

• infectious diseases,
• immune disorders,
• chronic inflammation,
• hemorrhages,
• kidney failure,
• parasites,
• poisoning.

The symptoms of anemia in a cat are mainly:

• apathy,
• pallor of the skin and mucous membranes,
• rapid breathing,
• getting tired quickly,
• lack of appetite,
• distorted appetite.

Untreated anemia can lead to death.

If you notice such signs and you want to extend the life of your person, take them to a doctor as soon as possible.

How can the life of a cat be extended?

How can the life of a cat be extended?

We have already learned the approximate survival time of individual cat breeds.

Obviously, these are statistics that are based on data obtained from studies on a specific cat population.

This doesn't mean your cat can't live any longer.

As mentioned before, genetics and breed predisposition are just one of many factors that play a role in your cat's survival.

The rest of the factors complement the overall probability of longevity, but sometimes they decide about life

…

bad luck.

However, this should not discourage you from providing your cat with the right conditions, and putting everything on one card under the title "what's going to be, will be" is extremely irresponsible.

I am unable to answer the question: How long will my cat live??

It depends on a number of interdependencies mentioned earlier, and unfortunately - things like genetics and happiness are completely beyond our control.

As with humans, there are several ways to improve your friend's chances of having a long life, including:

• ensuring a healthy lifestyle with adequate physical activity and a healthy diet,
• regular checkups and dental check-ups,
• reducing stress, a calm environment for the cat.

Below is a list of tips that you can use to try to increase your cat's chances of getting a happy old age.

It is nothing more than working on the factors on which we have influence, and it comes down to a few words:

proper care for your friend.

The decision to keep the cat only indoors

Should the cat leave the house?

This minimizes the risk of injury, catching infectious diseases or poisoning.

It also gives you more control over your cat's behavior.

Observation

One of the most important elements in caring for a cat.

You are responsible for monitoring and reacting to any changes in the behavior or appearance of your ward.

Nobody knows better than you how much your pet eats and drinks normally, how it behaves in natural conditions, what it likes and dislikes.

You are the first person to notice any deviations from the norm.

Your work in this area never ends.

Fortunately, this is not a breakneck job.

All you need to do is spend a moment every day playing and caring for your pet.

In such situations, many abnormalities and disorders are usually revealed, such as the presence of fleas, unwillingness to play, sensitivity or soreness in certain parts of the body, deterioration of the quality of the coat, reduction (or increase) in the intensity of daily care, the presence of lumps and many others.

And this is the moment to show your cat to the doctor in case you don't like something.

Kittens spending time with their owner have an advantage over their semi-wild kinsmen that clinical symptoms of many diseases are quickly noticed, and early diagnosis is - in most cases - a guarantee of cure.

Regular checkups

Regular checkups

Even if the cat shows no clinical symptoms and no signs in the sky or on the ground indicate that something disturbing may be beginning in its body, try to make regular "checkups " of your pet.

Why?

Firstly - many diseases do not show obvious symptoms until the disease is no longer so advanced that the body cannot cope with it.

It is often enough for even a slight increase in creatinine and urea in the blood serum to make us visit more often, take preventive action and "sensitize " to the symptoms of kidney disease, which - in the long term - gives us a chance to either eliminate the problem or the prompt introduction of long-term treatment, which can dramatically increase the survival rate of the cat.

Secondly - cats are extremely secretive animals and it's really hard to see any signs of ill health.

Even the most caring handler may not notice that the cat has been drinking more water for some time, has less appetite and sleeps a little longer than usual.

And these may already be symptoms of serious systemic diseases, which, if not detected on time, may result in serious consequences.

Third - such tests carried out at certain intervals will allow you to monitor the aging processes of your cat, and thus react early to changing needs and requirements.

Even when the results do not differ significantly from the norm, it may turn out that a diet change, increased physical activity or the administration of supplements supporting the functioning of individual organs is needed.

Regular anti-parasitic prophylaxis and vaccinations

Vaccinating your cat can extend its life

Infectious disease is one of the most common causes of death in cats, especially at a young age (usually before the age of 6 months).

And yet you can avoid getting sick and prevent fatal complications.

Vaccinations are available that - when done at the appropriate age and risk-taking - prevent the emergence of many dangerous diseases.

The same applies to internal parasites - through their actions, they not only deprive animals of important nutrients, but also:

• irritating to internal organs,
• they produce toxins,
• are allergenic.

Regular stool examinations, administration of anthelmintics, fighting ectoparasites and vaccinating your cat can make a huge contribution to your cat's longevity.

Systematic care for your cat

Cat care

Not only will it allow you to notice possible early symptoms of any abnormalities, but it is also a great way to spend time with your pet.

Providing a healthy, properly balanced diet

What to feed the cat so that it lives longer?

It has already become a truism to say that you are what you eat.

Each of us is aware of the fundamental impact of diet on health and vitality.

Cats are no different from us in this respect.

And although they sometimes have a separate opinion about what is good for them, try to provide your pet with a properly balanced, good-quality food, the composition of which will be adapted not only to the breed, but also to the activity and possible inclinations of the kitten.

Cat food should be rich in antioxidants, vitamin E, beta carotene and omega-3 and omega-6 unsaturated fatty acids.

Adequate attention to physical activity.

Walks with the cat

Indoor cats may suffer from a certain lack of exercise.

In domestic animals, the balance between the amount of calories consumed with meals and burned during activity shifts dangerously.

It is extremely important that you control and, if necessary, encourage your cat to play often and spend time actively.

A large percentage of cats suffering from obesity and diabetes developed these conditions through an unhealthy lifestyle.

Prevention of poisoning

Potted plants poisonous to the cat

Keeping away from your cat any substances, poisonous plants or objects that may harm or lead to poisoning.

Your pet can also have accidents at home.

Electric household appliances, beautiful, but poisonous to cats, potted or garden flowers, bleaches, plant protection products and many, many other dangers await these curious and ubiquitous animals.

Make sure that they are beyond the reach of the pet.

Provide a calm, less stressful environment

Provide a calm, less stressful environment

It has been known for a long time that cats react very badly to stress, and this is reflected not only in the mental state of our pet, but also has its serious health consequences - stress can shorten a cat's life.

One of the stressors for your client may be keeping him / her at home.

In addition to trying to create a substitute for freedom (which I mentioned earlier), you can try to build a small cat town with a small amount of work and materials, or at least install some interesting changes to it to encourage him to climb and hide.

The Internet is currently full of fantastic ideas on how to make something out of nothing and even with a small space, thanks to a large dose of imagination, you can give your kitten a space to play.

Another way to make your pet feel happier is

…

giving him a friend in the form of a second purr.

I guarantee you - now they will definitely not be bored.

Summary

Responsibility for your cat's health and life rests with you!

It's never easy with cats.

It is impossible to reduce the handling of them to some fixed algorithm, because these animals escape all conventions and schemes.

How many times have I heard from the owners how they took care of them, blew, blew and what?

They have developed cancer, diabetes, or another disease that could have been avoided had it been decided differently in the past.

Therefore, every, even the smallest decision regarding the health and life of your cat, even whether to vaccinate or not vaccinate, release or not, give cooked or ready-made, commercial food - make it after careful consideration of all "for " and "against" ".

Each one decision, each - even a small one - choice may affect the health of a pet in the future.

The existence of cats can be full of surprises and sudden twists.

In most cases, they somehow magically use each of their proverbial nine lives.

According to the accounts of their guardians, these creatures are able to deceive destiny in an amazing way and they come out of many deadly - it would seem - situations with a safe hand.

And indeed - they are creatures that are characterized by phenomenal body awareness, thanks to which even from critical and very dangerous events they come out unscathed.

However, I do not encourage you to rely solely on these "supernatural" abilities.

I can assure you - they will benefit much more if they do not have to use them.

Keeping your cat healthy for years to come is a multi-factorial strategy that includes proper prevention, diet, medical care, and a stress-free yet interesting environment.

Of course - we are not able to control genetics, predispositions or simply bad luck.

However, if you devote your time and attention to addressing your cat's physical and mental well-being, you have a good chance of extending his life.

Sources used >>