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It's becoming increasingly common for cats to reach very advanced ages, sometimes exceeding 20 years. The average life expectancy of a domestic cat is between 13 and 15 years, but this can vary considerably depending on a number of factors ...

The life expectancy of cats has increased considerably in recent years, and several factors contribute to this trend: improved veterinary care, choice of diet, as well as sterilization all contribute to increasing median longevity and the growing number of cats reaching advanced ages.

The myth of the 7-fold increase

Let's start by dispelling an old myth. Contrary to popular belief, multiplying a cat's age by 7 to obtain its human age equivalent is a myth. In reality, cat ageing is far more complex and non-linear.

Non-linear aging

Charlotte de Mouzon, associate researcher at Paris-Nanterre University, explains that “kittens seem to age more rapidly than adult cats". In fact, the rate of aging varies considerably over the course of a cat's life.

The six stages of a cat's life

According to the International Cat Care organization, a cat's life can be divided into six distinct stages:

1. Kitten (0-6 months): Period of rapid growth and development.
2. Junior (7 months-2 years): Reaches sexual maturity and adult size.
3. Young adult (3-6 years): Period of optimal physical and behavioral fitness.
4. Mature (7-10 years): Equivalent to a human aged 45-55.
5. Senior (11-14 years): Possible onset of health problems.
6. Geriatric (15+ years): Considered very old, although signs of aging aren't always apparent.

Factors influencing life expectancy

The average life expectancy of a domestic cat is between 13 and 15 years, but this can vary considerably depending on a number of factors:

• Lifestyle: Outdoor cats are exposed to more risks (accidents, fights, disease).
• Breed: Some breeds, like the Siamese, are known for their longevity (15-21 years).
• Genetics: European cats generally have a life expectancy 4 years longer than purebred cats, thanks to a more diversified genetic mix.
• Sterilization: This can protect against certain diseases such as FIV (cat AIDS) and reduce risk-taking behavior.

Longevity records

It's becoming increasingly common for cats to reach very advanced ages, sometimes exceeding 20 years. A British cat, Flossie, reached the venerable age of 26.

In conclusion, understanding how cats age is essential to providing them with appropriate care at every stage of their lives. While comparisons with human age can be useful, it's important to remember that every cat is unique, and that its state of health and well-being are more important than its chronological age.

(MH with LM/Source: Sciences et Avenir/Picture: © Bogdan Farca via Unsplash)