The Longest Living Cat Breeds

10 Cat Breeds That Live the Longest

Maximize time with your furry friend by choosing a breed known for its longevity.

Updated on October 5, 2023

Sphynx cat, Russian Blue cat, and Ragdoll cat — Photo:
GETTY IMAGES

If you're a cat owner, you're likely familiar with the feeling of wanting your feline to live forever. While this may not be realistic, the next best thing is choosing a cat breed that's known for its longevity. While cats generally have long lifespans in comparison to some pets, there are specific breeds that tend to have longer lifespans overall. If you are looking for a feline companion who will share a few decades with you, consider one of these breeds and happily bond for years to come.

Bradley Krohn, DVM, a veterinarian with The Vets

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Siamese

Identified by their light fur with dark extremities and sleek muscular bodies, Siamese cats can live as long as 15 years. "Siamese cats are not only long-lived but also known for their vocal and social nature," says Bradley Krohn, DVM, a veterinarian with The Vets.

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Balinese

The Balinese cat is a close cousin to the Siamese; in fact, the only main difference between them is that the Balinese cat had a gene mutation that created longer fur. The average lifespan for this breed is 15 to 20 years.

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Burmese

Burmese cats also have a Siamese ancestor, which may explain their tendency to live up to 20 to 25 years. Some have even been known to live well into their 30s.

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Russian Blue

Russian blues are beautiful grey cats that can live as long as 10 to 20 years. Give this cat your utmost attention and shower it with love.

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Persian

The Persian cat has been known to live upward of 20 years. "Persian cats are famous for their luxurious long fur and calm demeanor," says Dr. Krohn. "However, their flat faces (brachycephalic) can lead to respiratory issues, so it's essential to keep their nasal passages clean and provide regular grooming."

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Manx

Historically, the Manx cats ran with Vikings and hailed from the Isle of Man in the Irish Sea. Their lack of tail is the result of a gene mutation, but it also sets them apart from other breeds. The average lifespan of a Manx is 15 to 18 years.

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Oriental Shorthair

If you want a cat that you can leash train, the Oriental shorthair is well known for being able to learn how to be on a leash. This active lifestyle may also be a key factor in its longevity—this breed can live up to 10 to 15 years.

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Sphynx

This naturally hairless wonder has plenty of love to give. Because they are generally hairless, they need to be bathed on occasion to keep their skin in good condition. Sphynx cats have a life expectancy of 8 to 14 years.

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Ragdoll

Always sweet in appearance and temperament, the ragdoll makes a great family companion. The strikingly beautiful felines can live as long as 15 years or longer.

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American Shorthair

The American shorthair is marked by its affectionate nature, compact build, and round face. They are another active breed—plus, they have a high prey drive—which may contribute to their long lifespan. This breed can live for as long as 20 years.

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