Dogs’ lifespans have been extensively studied, but what about cats? In a groundbreaking study, researchers have now predicted the future life expectancy of your beloved feline companion.
Focusing on breed and gender, researchers found that female cats generally live longer than male cats. Birman and Burmese cats were identified as having the longest lifespan, with British cats in general living up to 11.7 years on average.
New research from Taiwan’s Royal Veterinary College and National Chung Hsing University has published a “life table” for all cat species, estimating the life expectancy of cats at different ages based on data analysis.
“The development of a life table for the UK companion cat population is a significant step towards understanding cat lifespan,” said lead researcher Dr. Kendi Teng.
Hybrid cats generally have a longer lifespan than purebred cats, with Burmese and Birman cats living an average of 14.4 years. Sphynx cats have the shortest lifespan at 6.8 years, followed by Bengals at 8.5 years.
Hybrid cats have an average lifespan of 11.9 years compared to 10.4 years for purebred cats. Female cats tend to live 1.3 years longer than male cats, and spayed or neutered cats live 1.1 years longer than intact cats.
While cats may not live as long as dogs, research shows that weight plays a crucial role in their lifespan. Maintaining an ideal weight is important for ensuring a longer life for your cat.
The study, published in the Feline Medicine and Surgery Journal, analyzed data from around 8,000 pet cats in the UK who passed away between 2019 and 2021. The results can help cat owners and rehabilitation centers predict cat lifespan and make informed decisions about their care.
“By understanding a cat’s expected lifespan, we can make informed decisions for their care and well-being,” Teng added.
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Source: www.sciencefocus.com
