As a cat lover and owner of two indoor domestic shorthairs that have passed away and now two that are alive and well, I can tell you that these cats can live up to 20 years!
Here is my cat, Sspeedy, who passed away at 19.5 years old:
Here is Simba, who sadly passed away at 12 years old, long before his brother:
The ASPCA denotes that these magnificent felines can live up to 20 years old (if we’re so blessed)!
However, it’s important to note that this is not a guarantee.
The average lifespan of an indoor Domestic Shorthair cat is around 12-15 years, but with proper care and attention, they can live even longer.
To ensure that your cat lives a long and healthy life, it’s important to provide them with proper nutrition, regular exercise, and routine veterinary care.
Indoor cats tend to live longer than outdoor cats, as they are not exposed to as many hazards such as cars, predators, and diseases.
Healthcare and Prevention
Proper healthcare and prevention can help your domestic shorthair cat live a long and healthy life. Regular veterinary care is essential for maintaining your cat’s health. This includes annual checkups, vaccinations, and preventative care such as spaying or neutering.
Vaccinations can protect your cat from diseases such as feline leukemia and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV).
Senior cats require additional care and attention. As cats age, they are more susceptible to health issues such as arthritis and dental problems.
Regular checkups and preventative care can help detect and treat these issues early, improving your cat’s quality of life.
Caring for Your Precious Kitty
As a cat owner, I know how important it is to take care of your furry friend to give them the chance to live as long as possible:
1. Nutrition and Diet
Feeding your cat a balanced diet is crucial for their health. Make sure to provide your cat with high-quality cat food that meets their nutritional needs.
Domestic felines are prone to obesity, so it’s important to monitor their food intake and avoid overfeeding them. A healthy diet helps prevent health conditions and parasites.
2. Exercise and Stimulation
Cats are active and playful, so it’s important to provide them with regular exercise and mental stimulation.
Play sessions with toys or scratching posts and climbing trees can help keep them active and healthy. Regular exercise also helps prevent obesity and keeps your cat physically fit.
3. Grooming and Dental Care
Grooming your felines regularly is essential for their health and hygiene. Brushing their fur helps prevent hairballs and removes dirt and debris. Also, providing fresh water and regular dental care helps prevent dental problems and keeps their teeth healthy.
Do Domestic Shorthair cats live longer indoors or outdoors?
Domestic Shorthair cats can live both indoors and outdoors but I advise against letting them live outdoors and I’ll explain why.
Indoor cats generally live longer than outdoor cats.
According to several sources (and personal proof of Sspeedy’s life!), indoor cats can live up to 15-20 years while outdoor cats have a shorter lifespan of around 2-5 years (horrifically, they have a much shorter lifespan).
This is because outdoor cats are more susceptible to accidents, diseases, and predators.
Is there a difference in lifespan between male and female domestic shorthair cats?
There is no significant difference in lifespan between male and female domestic shorthair cats.
Both genders can live up to 15-20 years with proper care and nutrition. However, male cats are more prone to urinary tract problems, which can affect their lifespan if left untreated.
What are the factors that affect the longevity of Domestic Shorthair cats?
Several factors can affect the longevity.
Proper nutrition, exercise, and regular veterinary checkups are essential for maintaining their health and longevity. Other factors include genetics, environment, and lifestyle.
How does the lifespan of a Domestic Shorthair compare to other cat breeds?
Domestic Shorthair cats have a similar lifespan to other cat breeds.
The average lifespan of a cat is around 12-16 years. However, some breeds like Siamese, Persian, and Maine Coon have a shorter lifespan of around 8-15 years.
Can the color of a Domestic Shorthair cat influence its lifespan?
There is no evidence to suggest that the color of a Domestic Shorthair cat can influence its lifespan.