33 Longest-Living Cat Breeds (and How to Keep Them Healthy)

They will stick around for a while if you take good care of them.

33 Longest-Living Cat Breeds

Pet owners know their pets can’t live forever, but we still want them to be with us for a long time. While a cat’s lifespan isn’t as long as a tortoise, which can live a whopping 80 to 100 years, some cat breeds live well into their teen years and beyond.

There is no guarantee that your cat will live until their senior years, but with care, attention and love, they can live a long and happy life. If you’re thinking of investing in a cat, these are the longest-living cat breeds and tips on ways to keep them healthy to ensure they'll stick around as long as possible.

American Curl

Average lifespan: 15+ years

American Curl cats are good-natured, full of energy and make devoted friends. They love being around people and other pets.

They show their affection for their people by sitting next to them, not on them, and just hanging out.

Keeping Them Healthy: American Curl

Help keep your American Curl cat healthy by ensuring they get plenty of exercise and helping them maintain a healthy weight. While their curled ears are adorable, they need some extra care.

The American Curl’s ears should be cleaned a few times a week to avoid pain, itching and irritation.

American Curl Stats

American Shorthair

Average lifespan: 15-20 years

American Shorthair cats are likable, engaging and lovely. They adore spending time with their humans, but they also love relaxing and sleeping in the sun.

They’re active and playful well into their senior years.

Keeping Them Healthy: American Shorthair

American Shorthair cats are fairly healthy, but watch out for signs of hip dysplasia. If your cat moves with obvious effort or avoids jumping, you should probably get them to a vet for diagnosis.

If the condition is advanced, medication or surgery may be recommended.

American Shorthair Stats

Abyssinian

Average lifespan: Up to 15 years

The Abyssinian cat is like the energizer bunny of cat breeds. The adventurous kitties are obsessed with climbing, jumping and running unlike any other breed aside from the rambunctious, leopard-like Bengal.

The curious Abyssinian also is known as the clown of the cat kingdom, and fans of the breed adore their chaotic and entertaining antics.

Their unusual vocalizations are another unique facet of the Abyssinian. Instead of meowing like normal cats, they softly chirp to get their owner's attention.

Keeping Them Healthy: Abyssinian

Abyssinians are mostly very healthy, but they're prone to developing retinal atrophy as they age, leading to impaired vision or blindness.

They also are a little more likely than some other breeds to develop kidney problems and thyroid issues, but both of these issues are easily treated with diet and medication if caught early.

Abyssinian Stats

Balinese

Average lifespan: 12-20 years

Balinese cats are regal looking and are as graceful and affectionate as their royal appearance. Some people think of them as long-haired Siamese cats. They’re very intelligent and are an excellent addition to any family.

Balinese are active cats, and if there’s no one around to play with them or they’re bored with their regular toys, they may be naughty and do things they know they shouldn’t do.

Keeping Them Healthy: Balinese

While Balinese are generally healthy, they sometimes develop problems with their teeth. To avoid dental issues, their teeth should be brushed at least three times a week.

It’s also a good idea to regularly check their ears for signs of infection, wax buildup, discharge, redness, swelling or any unpleasant odors.

Balinese Stats

Bengal

Average Lifespan: 12-16 Years

Bengal cats are smart, engaging and high-energy. Don’t try to pull anything over a Bengal cat, for they’re alert and never miss a trick.

Bengal cats are affable, loyal and love their human companions with everything they’ve got.

Keeping Them Healthy: Bengal

Bengal cats tend to be exceptionally healthy and don’t need any special food, grooming or extra veterinary visits. To keep fit, Bengals need plenty of exercise and interactive play.

They’re dog-like in their ability to walk on a leash and wear a harness. The best thing you can do for them is to walk them for 10 to 20 minutes twice a day.

Bengal Stats

Birman

Average lifespan: 12-16 Years

Birman cats tend to be one-person cats. It’s not that they’re not sociable, but they prefer to focus on one person at a time. They can get jealous if they don’t think they’re getting the attention they deserve, which is a great deal.

The best fur parent for a Birman is someone who can spend a lot of time with them every day.

Keeping Them Healthy: Birman

Birman cats aren’t predisposed to any health conditions. Their owner should keep an eye on their weight, for obesity in cats can cause concern. Birman cats must maintain their weight to stay healthy.

Since they don’t thrive being by themselves, they should be in a place where there’s always someone around to pamper and adore them.

Birman Stats

Bombay

Average lifespan: 12-16 Years

Bombay cats are sleek, curious and resilient. Their curiosity extends to the world around them as well as the one outside their window. They love being showered with love from their family, which must include lots of petting and stomach rubs.

Bombay cats are very intelligent, and it doesn’t take much for them to learn a new skill or make a new routine.

Keeping Them Healthy: Bombay

Bombay cats tend to be quite solid and stocky, so it’s easy for them to gain weight if they don’t get enough exercise. Make sure to have plenty of high places for them to climb up to and jump from.

Bombay cats are prone to respiratory problems and excessive production of tears. If these symptoms appear, please contact your vet.

Bombay Stats

British Shorthair

Average lifespan: 12-17 Years

British Shorthair cats don’t like to make a fuss. They’re even-tempered, exceptionally loyal and tend to form deep attachments to their entire family. They love to play and enjoy playing with others or by themselves.

But if you’re looking for a cat to carry around in your arms like a small dog, British Shorthairs aren’t the cat for you.

Keeping Them Healthy: British Shorthair

British Shorthair cats are a healthy breed for the most part. One way to guarantee their good health is to pay attention to their grooming needs, including regular brushing, clipping their claws approximately every two weeks and brushing their teeth frequently.

Also, make sure to keep up on your cat’s shots and checkups.

British Shorthair Stats

Burmese

Average lifespan: 16-18 Years

Burmese cats are amiable, lively and interested in what’s happening around them. They love their humans, but their love may not extend to everybody, especially the other cats in the household.

Burmese cats are excellent jumpers and climbers and hold on to their kittenish spirit well into their middle years.

Keeping Them Healthy: Burmese

Burmese cats enjoy their food and can put on weight. Excessive weight is dangerous to all cats but particularly with Burmese as they can develop diabetes. Keep on the lookout for signs of diabetes such as excessive drinking, increased urination, peeing outside the litter box and an increase in appetite.

Help your cat by moderating the amount of food given, ensuring they get enough exercise and monitoring their behavior.

Burmese Stats

Burmilla

Average lifespan: 10-15 years

The Burmilla, an adaptable, sweet-natured cat breed, makes a superb family cat.

A cross between the chinchilla Persian and the Burmese, they're not as gregarious as their Burmese cousins, but the playful, curious nature of the Burmilla is greatly appreciated by equally playful children.

Keeping Them Healthy: Burmilla

Burmillas, despite being one of the longest-living cat breeds, are known to have a few health problems. Allergies are common, but kidney problems are the more serious concern.

They tend to develop polycystic kidney disease as they age, so consider giving them exclusively wet food to ensure they stay hydrated and stave off renal problems.

Burmilla Stats

Chartreux

Average lifespan: 18-20 Years

Chartreux cats are known for their chill vibe as they’re calm, collected and affectionate without being too needy. Their personalities are often compared to their canine friends because of their ability to play fetch and respond to being called by name.

Their meow isn’t abrasive or overly loud but soft and pleasant-sounding.

Keeping Them Healthy: Chartreux

A generally healthy cat, Chartreux just need their coat to be combed, their nails trimmed, ears swabbed, teeth brushed, kidneys and regular vet visits.

Chartreux cats have a genetic predisposition to problems with their kidneys, including kidney stones and polycystic kidney disease. Some symptoms of kidney problems include throwing up, excessive urination, loss of appetite, and lethargy.

Chartreux Stats

Cornish Rex

Average lifespan: 15-20 years

The Cornish rex is a small to medium-sized cat breed with an eye-catching appearance.

Hardly the textbook image of a domestic cat, the Cornish rex has an egg-shaped head, whiskers that curl like corkscrews and a short, wavy coat.

Their fur comes in all the colors and patterns of a domestic shorthair, only with a more exotic look.

Keeping Them Healthy: Cornish Rex

Cornish rex cat sits on a warm fur blanket

The Cornish rex is extremely hardy, but they're not invincible. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a genetic heart disease, is a possibility, but responsible breeders test for the gene that causes it to prevent passing it on to litters of kittens.

They can sometimes develop knee problems with age, but don't we all? Their only other issue is that they can get sunburns due to their lack of fur, but keeping them indoors or applying pet-friendly sunscreen solves this one in a flash.

Cornish Rex Stats

Egyptian Mau

Average lifespan: 12-15 Years

Egyptian Maus are difficult to overlook because of their long, graceful bodies and unique markings. They’re very affectionate, smart and observant.

Egyptian Maus are great at climbing and jumping, but it’s their running speed that’s the most impressive thing about their athleticism.

Keeping Them Healthy: Egyptian Mau

Egyptian Maus are extremely sensitive to their surroundings and can become upset at loud noises or sudden movements, so a calm environment is recommended.

Also, make sure that your cat gets plenty of exercise, regular teeth-brushing and a high-protein diet to help them feel good physically.

Egyptian Mau Stats

Havana Brown

Average lifespan: 10-13 years

If you cross a Siamese cat and a domestic black cat, you might end up with a Havana brown. That's how the breed was created in England back in the 1950s by a group of cat fanciers who loved the idea of a black Siamese.

The fine-boned breed is affectionate and playful, following their owners from room to room just like their demanding and loyal Siamese cousins.

Some Havana browns even use their paws to reach out and ask their humans for extra attention.

Keeping Them Healthy: Havana Brown

Most purebred cats are predisposed to developing one health problem or another. It's just the nature of selective breeding, but Havana browns are almost an exception.

They have no known health issues, but make sure the breeder offers a kitten health guarantee just to be on the safe side.

Havana Brown Stats

Himalaya

Average lifespan: 9-15 years

Nicknamed the Himmy, the Himalayan cat breed is essentially just a color point version of the popular Persian breed. Some registries consider them to be variations of a single breed, but others label them as two separate breeds.

Either way, the beautiful Himalayan is very adaptable and affectionate, but requires a serious commitment to daily grooming to keep their fur sleek and tangle-free.

Keeping Them Healthy: Himalayan

Beautiful Himalayan Siamese cat in the field

Himalayans, like many fluffy, brachiocephalic breeds, have health issues. Buying from a reputable breeder reduces the likelihood of getting a kitten with health problems, but polycystic kidney disease and retinal atrophy are possibilities as Himalayans age.

Their short noses can also cause breathing issues like sleep apnea, so consider buying a pet-quality kitten with a more defined nose to ensure it has a better quality of life.

Himalayan Stats

Japanese Bobtail

Average lifespan: 15-18 Years

Japanese Bobtail cats love to converse with their people or anyone else they come into contact with. These cats are highly intelligent, affectionate and friendly to everyone.

They’re excellent travelers as they have a natural curiosity and are very adaptable, which makes them excellent travel companions.

Keeping Them Healthy: Japanese Bobtail

It’s recommended that most cats be kept indoors, and Japanese Bobtail cats are no exception.

This protects them from catching diseases from other animals they might encounter as well as animal attacks, car accidents and thieves.

Japanese Bobtail Stats

Korat

Average lifespan: 15+ Years

One way that Korat cats are special is that their fur has a shimmering quality to it. They’re sweet, bright and confident. They tend to have a tight bond with their human, and they prefer to spend time with them rather than on their own.

Korats can be fussy where their litter boxes are concerned, so they must be immaculately kept.

Keeping Them Healthy: Korat

While Korats love adults, it’s best not to have them in a household where there are children. Korats can become anxious when there are loud sounds, and they don’t enjoy being played with roughly.

To ensure that a Korat stays healthy, make sure to brush them once or twice a week, brush their teeth and check their ears to see if cleaning is needed.

Korat Stats

LaPerm

Average lifespan: 10-15 years

It's not hard to see where the LaPerm cat got its name. The unique-looking cat breed has a curly coat unlike that of almost any other cat breed.

The medium-sized kitty starts out with straight or slightly wavy fur, which gradually develops into full-on curls as they mature.

They're friendly, curious and devoted to their favorite humans, and have very few known health issues.

Keeping Them Healthy: LaPerm

LaPerm cats are so remarkably healthy that vets and breeders have failed to identify any genetic diseases among the uniquely curly furred cats.

Just feed them high-quality cat food, keep their weight in check and make sure they stay hydrated as they age to prevent kidney problems.

LaPerm Stats

Manx

Average lifespan: 15+ years

These tail-less or stubby-tailed cats are gentle, have sweet personalities and are devoted to their fur parents. A Manx cat may be shy at first with strangers, but they warm up.

Manx cats are known for being excellent mousers and for the unusual way they walk.

Keeping Them Healthy: Manx

Manx cats enjoy their food, so it’s up to their owners to watch their food intake. Manx cats should be given high-quality food on a regular schedule and have access to fresh water at all times.

It’s OK to give a Manx cat treats, as long as they’re given sparingly.

Manx Stats

Norwegian Forest

Average lifespan: 14-16 years

Norwegian Forest cats don’t need people to keep them entertained. They’re inquisitive, love to explore and always have time for fun. They’re adventurers at heart.

The Norwegian Forest cats have fur that’s somewhat weatherproof, as it’s double-layered so that they can handle the snow and the rain. Norwegian Forest cats don’t startle easily and are good with children and other pets.

Keeping Them Healthy: Norwegian Forest

Even if their adventures take place indoors, going on them can build up an appetite, and Norwegian Forest cats are likely to overeat if not watched.

They have a solid build, but if they start to get too plump, they can become susceptible to various health issues such as labored breathing and joint problems.

Norwegian Forest Stats

Ocicat

Average lifespan: 15-18 years

Ocicats are one of the friendliest cat breeds you can find. They love people as well as other cats, dogs and even children.

Hanging out alone isn’t the Ocicat’s thing — they’d much rather be with their humans than being by themselves. They crave companionship the way some cats crave kibble.

Keeping Them Healthy: Ocicat

Ocicats need both mental and physical stimulation, so make sure they get plenty of exercise and intellectual challenges. Watch for decreases in physical activity or mobility, as this could be a warning of some health issues.

Ocicats are vulnerable to gingivitis, so regular teeth brushing is also advised.

Ocicat Stats

Oriental Longhair

Average lifespan: 15+ years

Love is a two-way street for the Oriental Longhair cat. They give lots of love and affection to their people, and they expect to get double the amount right back.

These cats are great conversationalists and love to carry on conversations with their humans or themselves.

Keeping Them Healthy: Oriental Longhair

Since Oriental Longhairs get so attached to their humans, it can be overwhelming for them to deal with their loss. It’s a good idea to nurture the Oriental Longhair’s ability to adapt by making sure to familiarize them as kittens to a variety of places and people.

That way, if a drastic change happens, they’ll be better equipped to deal with it.

Oriental Longhair Stats

Persian

Average lifespan: 15-20 years

Persian cats are sweet, independent and prefer a calm environment. They can be a little standoffish if they don’t know someone. They’re true lap cats, and they love to cuddle.

Jumping and climbing aren’t in the top 10 of their favorite things to do — they’d rather pose for a selfie or show off their modeling skills.

Keeping Them Healthy: Persian

Because of the flat bone structure of a Persian cat’s face, they can have a problem with excessive tear production and irregular tear drainage, causing staining or possible infection.

Persian cats should have their eyes cleaned out regularly and be monitored for signs of inflammation or infection.

Persian Stats

Pixie-bob

Average lifespan: 15 years

With their fairly large size and unique, spotted tabby pattern, Pixie-bob cats resemble wildcats on the outside. On the inside, they have the temperament of a typical house cat.

The unusual breed is bright, snuggly and full of energy and has very few health issues. They often have extra toes, but the additional paw pad or two doesn't have any negative effect on their health or longevity.

Keeping Them Healthy: Pixie-bob

Pixie-bobs are generally healthy and live long lives, but they are prone to similar health problems that affect many domestic cats.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is something to look out for, and breeders occasionally have to deal with dystocia, or difficulty in delivering kittens.

For pet owners, however, that shouldn't be a concern.

Pixie-bob Stats

Ragamuffin

Beautiful and fluffy tri-colored tabby cat

Average lifespan: 15-18 years

Ragamuffin cats are the snuggly teddy bears of the cat world. The stocky breed is defined by a loveable, puppy-like personality and rounded features.

Unlike its relative the ragdoll, ragamuffins come in more than just pointed patterns, boasting a wide range of colors as well.

Ragdolls also exclusively have blue eyes, while ragamuffin's eyes come in all shades.

Keeping Them Healthy: Ragamuffin

Ragamuffins are generally healthy, but they do carry similar hereditary issues to those carried by ragdolls.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, which causes a thickening of the heart wall, is a serious concern, but responsible breeding usually eliminates this worry.

Ragamuffin stats

Ragdoll

Average lifespan: 15-20 years

Ragdolls are the kind of cats that you pick up, and they just melt into your arms. They’re all about giving and receiving love.

Now, that’s not to say that they don’t have an energetic side to them or that they’re not playful. They are, and they’re also very friendly, intelligent and can be trained to high five, give kisses or wave goodbye.

Keeping Them Healthy: Ragdoll

As Ragdolls get older, they tend to get less active, so to keep them healthy, make sure not to overfeed them and help them to get plenty of exercise.

Urinary tract infections are something to look out for in Ragdolls. Please contact a vet if you observe your cat straining when urinating, blood in the urine, crying out, increasing urination attempts or incontinence.

Ragdoll Stats

Russian Blue

Average lifespan: 15-20 years

Russian Blue cats are affectionate without being too clingy, they’re playful without being too rowdy, and while they can sometimes be reserved, they’re adaptable. They can live with humans and other pets.

Russian Blue cats have a perfect temperament and make excellent additions to any family.

Keeping Them Healthy: Russian Blue

Russian Blue cats love to eat, and if food is too available, they’ll continue to eat long after they’ve satisfied their hunger. Their caregivers need to be aware of weight gain and may need to consult a vet to help develop a nutrition plan.

Making sure your Russian Blue gets enough exercise, and portion control is a great place to start.

Russian Blue Stats

Savannah

Average lifespan: 12-20 years

Savannah cats are high-energy, headstrong and athletic. They’re not the kind of cat to sleep on your lap all night long, but they do become attached to their humans.

Savannah cats need to have plenty of cat trees to climb on and jump off of, mentally stimulating and interactive toys, and a small water source that they can play in.

Keeping Them Healthy: Savannah

Savannah cats are susceptible to a deficiency of the amino acid taurine, something they need in their diets. Taurine is found in meat and fish. It’s recommended that Savannah cats have a diet high in protein and a low (or no) grain diet.

If you can manage the time, raw diets work well for the Savannah cat.

Savannah Stats

Siamese

Average lifespan: 12-20 years

Siamese cats tend to be devoted to their humans, and they can get territorial about them. Siamese cats are energetic, demanding and self-assured. They’re smart enough to be trained, but that doesn’t mean they’ll always agree to it.

If it suits them to learn something, they will, but if it doesn’t, then they’re not interested. They’re known for being extremely vocal, and they’re not shy about letting you know if they’re not happy about something.

Keeping Them Healthy: Siamese

Siamese cats can be picky when it comes to their food, and malnourishment can be a concern. Although they’re not willing to gobble down just anything, there are still times when they overeat.

Siamese cats have thin legs and aren’t built to withstand too much extra weight. Some pet parents have found holding a taste test for their Siamese helps find the right food for their pet.

Siamese Stats

Sphynx

Average lifespan: 10-15 years

Sphynx cats have a reputation for being one of the sweetest, most loyal and lovable cats around. This breed is also one of the most hilarious because of how entertaining and funny they are.

Sphynx cats love to clown around and put on a show. They thrive on attention, affection and enjoy sitting side by side with their human.

Keeping Them Healthy: Sphynx

While Sphynx cats do enjoy a warm temperature, they need to be protected from the sun because of their lack of fur (even if they may have a layer of fuzz on their body).

Too much sun exposure can cause them to burn.

Sphynx Stats

Tonkinese

Average lifespan: 10-16 years

It seems as if the mission in life for the Tonkinese cat is to be loved and to love in return. They’re sweet, social and lively.

Tonkinese cats are super trusting and have no defense mechanism, so it’s not a good idea to leave them to defend themselves in the wilds of the backyard.

Keeping Them Healthy: Tonkinese

Tonkinese cats are prone to dental issues, and their teeth must be regularly brushed. Signs of teeth problems include bad breath, disproportionate amounts of drooling, severe clawing at the teeth and gums, difficulty eating, bleeding or swollen gums.

If your cat is having any of these symptoms, make an appointment to see your vet.

Tonkinese Stats

Turkish Angora

Average lifespan: 12-18 years

Turkish Angora cats are as beautiful on the inside as they are on the outside. They’re sweet, quiet and affectionate. They live for spending time with their humans and don’t like being left alone for long periods.

Once they become comfortable with an environment, they don’t appreciate things changing too often or too quickly.

Keeping Them Healthy: Turkish Angora

The Turkish Angora’s blue eyes can indicate a predisposition to deafness. People with Turkish Angora cats should be sensitive to any behavior changes, such as the cat suddenly not responding when called.

Depending on the degree of deafness, the cat’s voice may fluctuate in loudness, so it may sound like they’re in desperate need when they only need some attention.

Turkish Angora Stats

Turkish Van

Average lifespan: 12-17 years

Turkish Van cats tend to have fantastic personalities. They’re intelligent, fun-loving and affectionate. They need a lot of time to be with their human and a lot of time to play.

Give them somewhere to explore, places to jump to and maybe some water they can splash around in, and they’ll be happy.

Keeping Them Healthy: Turkish Van

It’s important for the Turkish Van cat’s health that they’re not overfed.

Leaving food out, constantly refilling their bowls and rewarding them too often with treats could lead to the cat eating too much on a daily basis and weight gain.