Domestic cats typically live between 13 and 20 years, with an average lifespan often cited around 15 years
. Some cats can live into their early 20s, especially indoor cats that are protected from outdoor dangers and receive good care
. The oldest recorded cat, Creme Puff, lived to be 38 years old
. Several factors influence a cat's lifespan, including:
- Whether the cat is indoor or outdoor: Indoor cats tend to live longer (12-18 years or more) because they avoid accidents and infectious diseases common outdoors
- Neutering: Neutered cats generally live longer due to reduced risks of reproductive diseases and roaming-related injuries
- Breed and genetics: Crossbred cats often outlive purebred cats; female cats tend to live longer than males
- Weight and health: Overweight cats have shorter lifespans; good nutrition, preventive healthcare, and regular veterinary visits improve longevity
In summary, with proper care, many cats live well into their teens, some reaching 20 years or more, while outdoor cats have a shorter average lifespan of 2-5 years due to higher risks
. Typical cat lifespan overview:
- Average: 13–17 years
- Indoor cats: 12–20+ years
- Outdoor cats: 2–5 years
- Record oldest cat: 38 years (Creme Puff)
This range reflects the impact of lifestyle, healthcare, and genetics on feline longevity