If you're thinking of adding a feline friend to your family, it may be wise to opt for a breed that has a reputation for longevity. To help you in your search, our vets at Portland have shared information on breeds like Siamese and Munchkin cats that are known to have longer lifespan.
Which Cat Breeds Live the Longest?
Determining a cat's lifespan can be challenging due to various factors that come into play. Breed, nature, and nurture are significant determinants that can affect each breed differently. Moreover, underlying health conditions and unexpected illnesses can also impact a cat's lifespan.
Therefore, it is crucial to provide regular senior care to older cats to ensure their well-being. Assuming a cat lives a long and healthy life, our Portland vets have compiled a list of the 5 best cat breeds known for their longer lifespan.
Siamese Cats
Did you know that Siamese cats originated from Thailand, which used to be called Siam? These cats have gained popularity because they are friendly, fun-loving, and amusing. Their intelligence also makes them trainable, allowing them to learn tricks and even walk on a harness.
Siamese cats tend to live up to 15 years on average, but it is not unheard of for them to live to be 20 years old.
Munchkin Cats
Munchkin cats are a recently developed breed recognized for their dwarfism. Despite having visibly short legs, this lively and playful breed is famous for its swift movements. There are three types of leg lengths that these cats can have at birth: standard length (the tallest), super short (second tallest), and the shortest length known as "rug huggers."
This breed will usually live up to 15 years old.
Balinese Cats
It is believed by some that the Balinese cat may be related to the Siamese cat due to their physical similarities. However, the Balinese cat has a longer coat than the Siamese. They are a great choice for a pet due to their friendly and outgoing personalities. Balinese cats are known to be active, intelligent, agile, and affectionate, and they also enjoy communicating with their owners.
A healthy Balinese cat can live between 18 and 22 years old.
Ragdoll Cats
The Ragdoll cat is a fairly new breed that originated in the early 1960s. These cats have long, silky fur which is comparable to that of a Persian cat. True to its name, the Ragdoll cat is known for its relaxed and easy-going nature, and often becomes limp when held, like a ragdoll. These felines are incredibly friendly and amiable, even with unfamiliar individuals. They possess a gentle disposition and enjoy lounging around the house.
Despite their soft look, these cats are quite the tough and healthy breed that can live up to 15-25 years.
Burmese Cats
Burmese cats are a medium-sized breed with beautiful, short coats. They possess a high level of energy and enjoy playing and being friendly with both their owners and strangers alike. They make excellent family pets as they are affectionate towards children and are always eager for some fun.
There is a record of a Burmese cat who lived to be 35 years old. Most Burmese cats don't live to be this long of course, but they do have an impressive lifespan of 18 to 25 years.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.