What’s the average cat lifespan?
On average, indoor cats live between 13 and 17 years, but many reach their early 20s with proper care. In contrast, outdoor cats have a much shorter average lifespan — often 5 to 7 years — due to accidents, predators, and exposure to disease.
The Guinness World Record for the oldest cat goes to Creme Puff, who lived an incredible 38 years.
Key factors that affect how long cats live
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer to cat length of life — it depends on several variables:
1. Environment
- Indoor cats are generally safer and less exposed to disease.
- Outdoor cats face daily hazards like cars, toxic substances, and fights.
2. Breed
- Some breeds, like Siamese and Burmese, are known for longevity.
- Others, like Persians, may be more prone to genetic conditions.
3. Diet and weight
Obesity is one of the top causes of preventable illness in cats. Balanced, species-appropriate nutrition adds years to a cat’s life.
4. Veterinary care
Regular checkups, vaccinations, and dental care can detect and prevent disease early — especially in senior cats.
5. Spaying and neutering
Fixed cats tend to live longer, healthier lives due to reduced risk of certain cancers and infections.
Indoor vs. outdoor cats: lifespan comparison
LifestyleAverage LifespanIndoor cat13–17 yearsOutdoor cat5–7 yearsIndoor/outdoor7–10 years
Keeping a cat indoors — or providing a secure catio or leashed walks — is one of the most effective ways to protect their longevity.
Signs of aging in cats
Just like humans, cats go through clear life stages. Recognizing age-related changes can help you care for them appropriately.
- 7+ years: Considered a “senior” — may start slowing down
- 10+ years: Needs more frequent vet visits and dietary adjustments
- 15+ years: Often shows signs of cognitive and physical decline
Common aging signs include reduced activity, weight loss or gain, vision or hearing loss, and changes in grooming habits.
Tips to extend your cat’s life
You may not control genetics, but you can significantly influence your cat’s lifespan with daily choices:
- Provide high-quality, moisture-rich food
- Keep your cat indoors or in a safe outdoor space
- Offer regular play and mental stimulation
- Brush their teeth and keep up with vet visits
- Watch for behavioral changes — they can be early signs of illness
What happens when a cat nears the end of life?
It’s never easy to face the possibility of losing a beloved companion. Signs that a cat is entering its final stage of life may include:
- Loss of appetite
- Confusion or disorientation
- Social withdrawal or unusual clinginess
- Difficulty breathing or walking
Knowing what to expect and preparing emotionally and practically can help you honor your cat’s life with comfort and dignity.
A future-looking note: pet cryopreservation
At Tomorrow.bio, we believe that no life — including that of your beloved pet — should end simply because current veterinary medicine has limits. That’s why we now offer pet cryopreservation, applying the same science we use for humans to your animal companion.
While revival is not yet possible, preservation keeps the option open for future veterinary advances.
Use our pet preservation calculator to explore how it works and what it might cost.
About Tomorrow.bio
At Tomorrow.bio, we are dedicated to advancing the science of cryopreservation with the goal of giving people and pets a second chance at life. As Europe’s leading cryopreservation provider, we focus on rapid, high-quality standby, stabilization, and storage of terminal patients — preserving them until future medical technologies may allow revival and treatment.
Our mission is to make cryopreservation a reliable and accessible option for everyone. We believe that no life — human or animal — should end because current medical capabilities fall short.
📧 Contact us at: hello@tomorrow.bio
🌐 Visit our website: www.tomorrow.bio
🤝 Schedule a consultation: Book a call
