Domestic shorthair cats typically live 12 to 15 years on average , though many can live up to 20 years or more with good care. Their lifespan benefits from their mixed breed genetics, which often means better overall health compared to some purebred cats. Factors influencing their longevity include proper nutrition, regular veterinary care, and whether they live indoors versus outdoors. Indoor domestic shorthairs tend to live longer, sometimes into their late teens or early 20s. The oldest recorded domestic shorthair lived an extraordinary 38 years.
Average Lifespan
- Typically 12 to 15 years.
- Can extend up to 20 years or more under good care.
- Indoor cats on average live longer (10-15 years) than outdoor cats (2-5 years).
Influencing Factors
- Nutrition: High-quality diet supports longevity.
- Healthcare: Regular vet checkups and vaccinations.
- Genetics: Mixed breed vigor reduces hereditary diseases.
- Environment: Indoor lifestyle reduces risks like accidents and infections.
Maximum Lifespan
- Up to 20 years or more is not uncommon.
- Guinness World Record for oldest cat (a domestic shorthair named Crème Puff) is 38 years.
This breed is known for being hardy and adaptable, contributing to their generally longer lifespan and lower incidence of breed-specific health problems compared to purebreds.
