These 15 cat breeds are known for their surprisingly long lifespans; experts say some can stay by your side well into their late teens and beyond.
Siamese
The Siamese cat is considered the “gold standard” when it comes to cat longevity. Vocal and intelligent, these kitties often live 15 to 20 years, many reaching their early twenties.
They are extremely active cats, and keeping their sharp mind engaged with play will keep them feeling young well into their senior years.
Burmese
One of the hardiest cats out there, the Burmese also has some of the highest feline age records. These cats typically live 16 to 18 years, but the oldest Burmese lived to be 35 years old.
They are extremely social and somewhat dog-like, following their owners from room to room. This allows owners to easily detect slight changes in health.
Balinese
If you like the Siamese but hate short hair, the Balinese might be your breed of choice. Because they’re genetically identical to the Siamese, their life expectancy is just as long, if not longer (many live 18-22 years).
Balinese are naturally healthy cats. What’s more, their silky coat doesn’t get tangled as easily as other long-haired breeds.
Russian Blue
If you’ve ever seen one of these stunning cats, you know they have silver-tinted fur and bright green eyes. Not only are they lovely to look at, but Russian Blues are hearty cats.
Like the Siamese, these cats live on average 15 to 20 years. Their shy nature and love of a quiet indoor life keep them out of trouble and stress, leading to graceful aging.
American Shorthair
Perhaps one of the most popular cat breeds in the world, American Shorthairs are built tough and don’t require much maintenance.
Bred as working cats to roam labs and barns, keeping pests at bay, these cats have a serious built-to-last constitution. Most will live 15 to 20 years and have few genetic health problems.
Ragdoll
Nicknamed the “gentle giants” of the cat world, Ragdolls are famous for completely relaxing when you pick them up. Despite their size, they have a long lifespan of 15 to 20 years.
Experts believe their easy-going personality lends itself to low stress, which can only help heart health later in life.
Persian
Persians have been around for centuries, making them one of the oldest-known cat breeds in the world. They can be prone to breathing problems because of their flat faces, but a well-cared-for Persian can live from 15 to 20 years or more.
These fluffy kitties love nothing more than staying indoors and dozing all day. Their simple routines help keep their stress levels low.
Bombay
Bombays are beautiful black cats with copper eyes who resemble black panthers.
They’re a mix between the Burmese and American Shorthair, two of the longest-living breeds on this list, so it shouldn’t surprise you that they also live 15 to 20 years on average.
These cats crave human interaction, which encourages them to get plenty of playtime.
Sphynx
The Sphynx is a hairless breed that may look like they’re fragile, but it can live up to 20 years with proper care. Sphynxes’ thin skin means they must live strictly indoors, which helps them avoid many of the dangers that hurt outdoor cats.
They love attention and often bond closely with one person in the household.
Savannah
The gorgeous Savannah is part domestic cat and part wild African Serval. They have slim bodies and a high prey drive.
Because of their wild lineage, Savannahs are extremely athletic and have superior immune systems. You can expect them to live anywhere from 12 to 20 years, depending on the individual. Their athleticism helps them avoid obesity.
Egyptian Mau
The Egyptian Mau is one of the oldest breeds of cat. They’re also the fastest domestic cat around.
Known for being healthy, they’ll often live 12 to 16 years and continue on to reach ages of 18 and even 20. Their athletic qualities carry them through their golden years.
Manx
The Manx is famous for its lack of tails, but it also has a long lifespan. Manx cats often live past 15 years and regularly make it to the age of 20.
Like most intelligent cats, they crave attention and can easily entertain themselves if left alone. As long as your Manx doesn’t develop genetic spinal problems as a kitten, they should live a healthy life.
Birman
Known for their wide eyes and “pajama-like” markings on their legs, Birmans are sweet and love attention.
According to a recent study, Birmans have one of the longest lifespans among purebred cats, living to be 15 years or older. They’re people-focused cats and love getting brushed and having their ears scratched.
Japanese Bobtail
Japanese Bobtails are lucky cats in Japan. They’re also lucky for you if you’re able to adopt one since they often live long lives too.
Japanese Bobtails are a natural breed that wasn’t genetically manipulated by humans. This usually equals healthier cats. They are very active and chatty and often live 15 years to 18 years.
Cornish Rex
Cornish Rexes have huge ears and wavy coats that look fuzzy rather than hairy. Don’t let their exotic looks fool you into thinking they’re fragile.
If they get enough exercise, these kitties can live 16 to 20 years. They have a kitten-like mentality their whole lives and will constantly play with you if allowed.
Sources: Please see here for a complete listing of all sources that were consulted in the preparation of this article.
