Domestic felines now live longer than they did 100 years ago and the reason goes beyond evolution.
The Today’s domestic cats reach ages that exceed those of previous generations. While before their life expectancy was around 5 to 7 years in outdoor environments, today felines that live indoors reach 14 or 17 years on average. Some even exceed 20 years, such as the record case of Creme Puff, a cat who lived 38 years. This change is due to improvements in their living conditions, which include veterinary care, quality food and protected environments.
The Full domestication of cats occurred mainly in the last 100 years. Before, these animals lived in streets, yards or exposed to multiple dangers. The transition to safe homes, along with advances in veterinary medicine, doubled their life expectancy compared to past times.
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Why cats today have longer lives
Indoor cats live longer thanks to external risk reduction. Felines that live in open spaces face dangers such as accidents, diseases, fights and parasites. On the other hand, those who reside in homes with adequate stimuli, such as games, scratching posts, vertical spaces and regular veterinary check-ups not only extend their life, but also improve their well-being.
The preventive medicine is essential for this transformation. Vaccinations, deworming and periodic check-ups became key tools to prolong the life of cats. A balanced diet and weight control help prevent diseases such as arthritis, diabetes and kidney problems, common in overweight felines.
However, Not all races age the same.. Some, like traditional conjoined twins, can live 18 or 20 years, while others suffer from genetic problems that shorten their lifespan. Breeds such as Extreme Persians (with breathing difficulties), Scottish Folds (with joint pain) or Munchkin (with deformed legs) face health challenges that limit their longevity. These traits, although touted as attractive, actually represent biological problems that affect your quality of life.
To promote feline longevity, owners can adopt measures such as maintain a healthy weight, provide a stimulating environment and perform annual veterinary checks. Cats over 10 years of age need adapted diets, frequent kidney evaluations, and adjustments to their environment to preserve their mobility. Signs such as more sleep, less activity or changes in your habits must be observed to act in time.
Modern veterinary medicine makes it possible to manage diseases that were once fatal, demonstrating that feline longevity depends largely on the care and the environment. Cats that live in safe homes, with stimulation and affection, age more slowly and maintain their health better. Research confirms that the positive interaction reduces stress and strengthens your immune system, contributing to a longer, healthier life.
Source: Ambito
I am an author and journalist who has worked in the entertainment industry for over a decade. I currently work as a news editor at a major news website, and my focus is on covering the latest trends in entertainment. I also write occasional pieces for other outlets, and have authored two books about the entertainment industry.
