Domestic cats typically live between 13 and 17 years on average, though many can live into their early 20s with proper care
. Indoor cats generally have longer lifespans, often living 12 to 18 years or more, because they avoid outdoor hazards and receive routine veterinary care
. Factors that influence a cat's lifespan include diet, healthcare, lifestyle (indoor vs. outdoor), neutering status (neutered cats tend to live longer), and genetics
. Some notable points about cat longevity:
- The oldest recorded cat, Creme Puff, lived to 38 years old, which is exceptional but shows cats can live well beyond typical averages
- Female cats tend to live longer than males, and mixed-breed cats often outlive purebred cats
- Overweight cats have shorter lifespans, with life expectancy decreasing as weight increases beyond ideal levels
- Common causes of death in older cats include trauma, kidney disease, cancer, and other illnesses
In summary, while the average lifespan of a domestic cat is around 13 to 17 years, many cats live into their late teens or early twenties with good care, and exceptional cases can live much longer
