In recent years, feline ages and life-stages have been redefined, cats are considered to be elderly once they reach 11 years with senior cats defined as those aged between 11-14 years and super-senior cats 15 years and upwards. When caring for older cats it sometimes helps to appreciate their age in human terms.
The average lifespan for a pet cat is probably around 13 to 14 years. However, although their lifespan varies, a well cared for cat may commonly live to 15 or beyond, some make it to 18 or 20 and a few extraordinary felines even pass 25 or 30 years of age.
Older cats tend to be less active and playful, they may sleep more, gain or lose weight, and have trouble reaching their favorite places. Don't chalk up health or behavior changes - often gradual - to old age, however.
Average lifespan of cats overall: Crossbred cats have a longer average lifespan of 14 years compared with 12.5 years for purebred cats. On average, a cat's lifespan is reduced by 6 months for every 1 kg increase in adult bodyweight. Annual veterinary health checks help to identify and manage health conditions earlier.
Cats seem to have the ability to know that they are going to die. A sick cat will often begin seeking out places that are comfortable to them yet away from their owners.
Excessive Vocalization
Older cats may vocalize excessively for a number of reasons, including disorientation, loss of hearing and pain due to one or more medical conditions. (Please see our article, Meowing and Yowling, for more information about excessive vocalizing and how to resolve it.)
Just like when they were kittens, older cats tend to sleep as much as 20 hours a day. If your senior cat's sleep patterns are starting to change, look first to their home environment, before getting concerned. Especially as they age, cats need warm and comfortable places to sleep.
Your cat might meow at night because they feel bored, unstimulated, lonely or just want to go outside. If your cat won't stop crying at night even when they have plenty of play time, other causes to consider are thyroid or kidney disease.
Burmese. The official record of the oldest living cat holder is a 35-year-old Burmese cat. Of course, most Burmese cats don't live that long. The average lifespan of Burmese cats is 18 to 25 years and that is certainly much longer than most cats.
As in humans, female cats tend to live for longer than male cats. Neutered cats are also likely to live for longer than intact ones, and pure breed cats are less likely to live as long as crossbreeds.
As they age, cats are not able to digest their food as well resulting in increased nutrition requirements. If their nutrition does not meet their requirements, they will lose muscle mass resulting in the ability to easily feel the bones of their spine and hips when petting them.
Signs of a Depressed Cat
Changes in body language, including ears held back, tucked tail, and hairs standing on end. Meowing more or less than usual or making low-pitched, mournful meows. Lack of energy or a decrease in activity level. Retreating from humans or other family pets.
Cognitive dysfunction or disability
As senior cats age, they're more likely to become clingy. This could be a sign of cognitive dysfunction. Older cats may experience a range of symptoms, including loss of sight, hearing, balance and coordination.
Weight loss in itself is not an indication for euthanasia but if the cat's body score falls to around 1.5 / 5 the cat is likely to feel weak, and lacking in energy. If there is no prospect of her gaining weight, you must consider euthanasia. If the body score falls further, to 1/5 then it is time to let her go.
By scoring your cat's pain and energy levels, appetite, mobility, and overall demeanor, you can more easily measure your feline's quality of life.
How old is a 16 year old cat in human years? A 16 year old cat is the equivalent to 80 human years old.
It's difficult to say with certainty whether or not cats know they're going to die. It's likely, however, that they do sense a change in their biochemistry which affects their behaviour. It's common for a cat to wait until an important family member returns home before passing away, for example.
Most people think of purring as a sign of a happy cat, but purring may be used as a form of communication, a sign of hunger, and even a calming mechanism, which could explain why they may purr during their final days or hours.
A mobile veterinary clinic may be able to come to your home. Animal control services will also pick up deceased pets for a fee. Your pet's passing will not be considered an emergency, so at night, weekends, or holidays, they may not arrive until the next business day.
Should I stay with my cat during euthanasia? This is entirely your choice, but we often hear that it is comforting for owners to know that they were with their pet at the end. Because of the close bond you have with your cat, they may find comfort in knowing you're there with them too.
Two cats offer each other exercise and playtime. Veterinary studies show that cats living together are healthier and live longer.