Cats are amazing animals. They are soft, playful, and love to be with people. Many people keep cats as pets at home. One big question many people ask is: How long do cats live? Let’s find out in easy words!
What Is a Cat’s Life Span?
A life span means how long something lives. Just like people live for many years, cats also live for a number of years. Most cats live between 12 and 18 years. But some cats can live over 20 years if they are very healthy and well taken care of!
Do All Cats Live the Same?
No, not all cats live the same. Some live longer than others. It depends on many things, like:
- What they eat
- Where they live
- If they see the vet
- If they are sick or healthy
Let’s look at the two main types of cats:
House Cats (Indoor Cats)
Cats that live inside the house are called indoor cats. These cats are safe from cars, other animals, and bad weather. They usually eat good food and get love from their families. Because they are safe and healthy, indoor cats can live 12 to 18 years, and sometimes even more!
Some house cats live to be 20 years old or more. That is a long and happy life for a cat!
Street Cats (Outdoor Cats)
Cats that live outside or on the streets are called outdoor cats or stray cats. Life is hard for these cats. They have to find food, stay away from danger, and deal with the cold and rain.
Outdoor cats often live only 3 to 7 years. This is much shorter than house cats. That’s why many people try to help street cats by feeding them or taking them to a safe place.
What Helps Cats Live Longer?
There are many things that help a cat live a long life:
1. Good Food
Cats need healthy food every day. Food made for cats gives them the right vitamins and energy.
2. Clean Water
Cats need to drink fresh water to stay healthy.
3. Love and Care
Cats feel happy when they are loved. They like to play, cuddle, and sleep in warm places.
4. Vet Visits
Cats should go to the vet (animal doctor) once or twice a year. The vet checks if the cat is healthy and gives shots to stop sickness.
5. A Safe Home
Cats need a home where they are safe from cars, dogs, and bad weather. A clean and quiet place helps them feel good.
Do Cats Age Like People?
Cats grow faster than people. A 1-year-old cat is like a 15-year-old person. A 2-year-old cat is like a 24-year-old person. After that, each year is like 4 human years. So if your cat is 10 years old, it’s like a 56-year-old person!
Some Oldest Cats Ever
Some cats lived very long lives! A cat named Creme Puff from Texas lived to be 38 years old. That is like over 160 years in people time! Not all cats live that long, but it shows that with love and care, cats can live many happy years.
How to Know If Your Cat Is Getting Old
Older cats may:
- Sleep more
- Walk slower
- Eat less
- Want more quiet time
You can still help them feel happy by giving soft food, gentle hugs, and lots of love.
Final Tip
If you have a cat, take good care of it. Feed it well, give it water, and take it to the vet. Play with your cat and show it love. A happy cat can live many, many years!