The 10 longest-living domestic cat breeds

As we all know, cats have 9 lives. It’s science. But which cat breeds are the best at saving these up? What are the longest-living domestic cat breeds around? Is there a particular secret being kept by these longest-living cat breeds, do they know something we don’t? Or is it simply down to furry brain smarts and good genetics?

While we may never know the answer to most of these questions, we do have some stats to show us (on average) the longest-living cat breeds currently around. Let’s join paws to learn more about kitty longevity and 10 cat breeds that live the longest.

What's the longest a cat can live?

Up until relatively recently, cats were expected to live up to 15. However, in an age of ever-developing science and technology, our purr-babies now have a life expectancy of 18 to 25 years! Yeah, 25 years! In fact, the oldest cat alive today, Flossie, is 28 years young. What’s even craziest, is the age of the oldest ever recorded cat - Creme Puff lived from 1967 to 2005, meaning she was 38 when she passed away.

While many of us won’t be lucky enough to have a Creme Puff companion, the fact that many cats are now living to 22 years is rather wonderful. Of course, this is highly dependent on the kitty, their lifestyle, their experiences, and a whole host of other factors. For example, indoor cats are expected to live 2 to 5 years longer than outdoor cats. That’s because outdoor cats are more likely to encounter dangers and illness roaming free, as opposed to those with catios and those who walk on a harness.

But when it comes to genetics, well there are a few noteworthy cat breeds known for their ability to live a long life…

The 10 longest-living domestic cat breeds

1. Burmese cats

At number one, we have the longest-living cat breed on record (as of today). According to an article by New Scientist in May 2024, Burmese cats have the highest average life expectancy of any cat breed. While the article quotes a life of 14.4 years, many other sources bump that age up from 16 to 18 years. Burmese cats are fun-loving, affectionate furballs who enjoy every moment of their purr-worthy lives. It’s also worth noting the longest-living Burmese cat was recorded at 35 years old!

2. Ragdoll cats

Ragdoll cats are so perfectly named - they are very happy being passed from lap to lap or cuddle to cuddle like a living ragdoll. Of course, this doesn’t mean they should be treated like a toy, especially if you want them to fulfill their long life expectancy. While Ragdoll cats look like a designer breed, they aren’t known for having many serious genetic health issues. Chilled, easy-going, and gentle, these cats know how to kick back and enjoy each day.

3. Persian cat

Another blue-eyed beauty of the cat world, the Persian cat has a very similar temperament to their Ragdoll relatives. Calm, collected cat nappers, the Persian cat loves nothing more than an easy life of cuddles, brushes, and general admiration for their gorgeous floof. A Persian cat can easily live up to 15 years old, and many are known to make it into their 20s. 

4. Siamese cats

Slender and sleek Siamese cats have stomped their way onto the longevity league tables. Originally from Thailand, these vocal and sociable kitties love being around people and are very easy to train due to their intelligence. With an average life expectancy of over 15 years, these cats are excellent family pets for new or seasoned cat carers.

5. Balinese cats

Balinese cats are a not-too-distant-counsin of Siamese cats - while the Siamese is known for its glossy short-haired coat, Balinese cats boast an extra floofy mane of fur. Otherwise, they share many of the same attributes as Siamese cats such as their friendliness, frequent vocalizations, and agility. It’s not unusual for Balinese cats to be around for as long as 22 years.

6. Russian Blue cats

With gorgeously dusty coats and hypnotic blue/green eyes, Russian blue cats are a firm family favorite and have a real lust for life. Originating from Russia (duh), these cats can live up to 15 or 20 years old. Known for their loyalty and strong bond with their pet parents, Russian Blues boast a kind temperament as well as an ability to keep on living.

7. Bombay cats

Bombay cats are as plucky as they are curious - they’re known for being very charismatic and can end up in some pretty silly situations. Luckily, time seems to be on their side as they average around 20 years when it comes to life expectancy. They are the cats of the people, and have no issue approaching strangers or lively children - everyone is a potential friend and back scratcher.

8. Sphynx cats

Arguably known as the most regal of the hairless cat breeds, Sphynx cats are favored for their gentle, loving nature and curiosity. Because of their lack of fur, Sphynx cats are generally kept as indoor cats to help keep them warm and protected from the sun. Whether it’s this that allows them to live up to 20 years old, we’ll never know for sure. However, many Sphynx pet parents would argue it’s the love for living and all things new that keep them young at heart.

9. Egyptian Mau

Considered to be one of the oldest (if not the oldest) known domestic cat breeds, these tiny tigers seem to love sticking around. Adored by the Pharaohs of Ancient Egypt, they still expect the same royal treatment as a family pet. But, saying that, they are very loving kitties who won’t say no to any attention in between their busy active lifestyles.

10. Crossed breed cats

Many of us cat carers have no idea what breed of cat they own - they simply have a mushy moggy. Crossed-breed cats technically don’t count as a breed, however, mixing up all those different genetics is great for a cat’s life expectancy. Both Creme Puff and Flossy were or are cross-breed cats with a whole range of kitty DNA in their bodies. Cross-bred cats are less likely to carry or develop genetic issues and health problems and are known for having healthier bodies. All of this adds to the potential of living a long kitty life.

What do you think, did we miss any long-living cat breeds? Do you have any tips on how to help kitties live a long life? Well, tell us about it on our Community Forum - connect with another feline fantastic to share the love and spread your wisdom. Otherwise, have a look at all the Trusted cat sitters available near you and find your paw-fect sitter today.