If you’ve ever wanted to know about the longest and shortest living cat breeds, we’ve got you covered.
As anyone that has ever deeply loved a pet knows, animals aren’t immortal.
They give us their love, companionship, and lives and all they ask for in return is the same. And we’re happy to do so.
That’s why when it comes time to say “goodbye,” we dedicated pet parents are devastated. Would it make the inevitable any more manageable if we knew our fur babies lifespan? Maybe. Maybe not.
You might want to read ➔➔ What Are the Best Cat Breeds? (For Your Lifestyle)
However, for those of us that want to know, we’ve compiled a list of 19 of the longest (and shortest) living cat breeds.
Let’s check it out!
Related ➔➔ 12 Domestic Short-Haired Cat Breeds That Melt Our Hearts
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19 of the Longest (and Shortest) Living Cat Breeds
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As you can see, this list is in reverse order. There’s a reason for that. We started with the shortest living cat breed, then counted down to the longest living cat.
19. The Manx
- Lifespan: 8-14 years
- Weight: 8 to 12 pounds
- Defining Characteristics: Watch-cat and Mouser
The Manx cat is known for its lack of tail; however, not all of these cats are entirely tailless; some have stumpies, while others have normal-length tails.
This is an intelligent breed that can be taught tricks. It also is very family-orientated, getting along well with both children and cat-friendly canines.
18. Maine Coon
- Lifespan: 9-15 years
- Weight: 9 to 20 plus pounds
- Defining Characteristics: Good-Natured and People-Orientated
The Maine Coon is a large, robust breed that has retained his mousing skills. He loves to be with his family members, but not in a needy way.
He is a highly adaptable feline that gets along well with children and other pets, as long as they treat him with care.
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17. Japanese Bobtail
- Lifespan: 9-15 years
- Weight: 6 to 10 pounds
- Defining Characteristics: Chatty and Intelligent
Another “tail-challenged” Kitty is the Japanese Bobtail. Playful, smart, and active, this breed is sure to stir up lots of fun for his family members.
He likes to play in the water, carry around his favorite toy, and be a bit headstrong when the situation calls for it.
16. Devon Rex
- Lifespan: 9-15 years
- Weight: 5 to 10 pounds
- Defining Characteristics: Smart and Sassy
The first thing you will notice about the Devon Rex is his wavy coat and bat-like ears. Aside from his “alienish” appearance, this breed enjoys perching on his person’s shoulder and communicating his opinions in a soft, yet persistent voice.
Want a snuggle-bunny at bedtime? The Devon will be there at your feet under the covers.
15. Balinese
- Lifespan: 9-15 years
- Weight: 5 to 10 pounds
- Defining Characteristics: Helpful and Affectionate
They might differ in coat length, but underneath it all, the Balinese and Siamese are like twins. A typical Balinese will follow its human around the home, chatting up a storm.
This breed isn’t just social, but its smarts will keep you on your toes.
14. Abyssinian
- Lifespan: 9-15 years
- Weight: 6 to 10 pounds
- Defining Characteristics: Active and Intelligent
Living life to the fullest, the Abyssinian will jump higher, run faster, and climb further than any other breed.
Nicknamed the “Aby-grabbers” because of its propensity to take whatever catches her attention, this breed will definitely keep you on your toes.
13. The Oriental
- Lifespan: 10-15 years
- Weight: 5 to 10 pounds
- Defining Characteristics: Active and Affectionate
The Oriental feline is as vibrant in personality as it is in its coat; there are over 600 variations of coat color, length, and patterns. Being touted as one of the “most popular cat breeds” by the CFA, the Oriental is both elegant and adventurous.
12. Selkirk Rex
- Lifespan: 10-15 years
- Weight: 10 to 15 pounds
- Defining Characteristics: Relaxed and Sweet
Nicknamed “a cat in sheep’s clothing” because of its thick woolly coat, the Selkirk Rex originated in Montana. As for its personality, no other breed may be as sweet-natured, placid, and even cuddly as the Selkirk.
Although he may not always be a lap cat, you will find this breed very tolerant and affectionate to his family.
11. Russian Blue
- Lifespan: 10-15 years
- Weight: 8 to 15 pounds
- Defining Characteristics: Affectionate and Intelligent
Gentle, quiet, and somewhat shy are just some of the words used to describe the Russian Blue.
However, that doesn’t mean this cat doesn’t like to play. He thrives in a family that will allow him his reserved nature but will also take the time to nurture his abilities to retrieve and be loving.
10. Ocicat
- Lifespan: 10-15 years
- Weight: 6 to 15 pounds
- Defining Characteristics: Ability to Learn and Devoted
Seeing dots when you look at an Ocicat is not all you’re going to get. This breed is a joy to be around, loves its humans, and has the ability to learn tricks.
He can also quickly learn how to open doors, retrieve toys, and walk on a leash. But be aware that the Ocicat doesn’t like to be left alone for long periods-of-time.
9. Nebelung
- Lifespan: 15-18 years
- Weight: 7 and 14 pounds
- Defining Characteristics: Gentle, Quiet, and Shy
If you’ve never heard of the Nebelung, it is the long-haired version of the Russian Blue. It, therefore, does share some of the same personality qualities; shy and reserved but loves to play.
He can be a bit standoffish to strangers but is exceptionally devoted to his favorite human. And even though, the Nebelung loves attention from the right folks, he can entertain himself during the day.
8. Bombay
- Lifespan: 15-20 years
- Weight: 6 to 11 pounds
- Defining Characteristics: Lively and Adaptable
As ink-black as the night, the Bombay‘s stunning, panther-like appearance isn’t his only quality.
This breed loves people and can adapt to most situations. He loves to cuddle into the warmest spots in the home and will be more than happy to share his opinions with anyone that will listen.
7. Persian
- Lifespan: 15-20 years
- Weight: 7 to 12 pounds
- Defining Characteristics: Docile and Dignified
This feline is quiet and sweet-natured. She enjoys being pampered and petted with kind, gentle strokes. The Persian prefers a serene home where she can nap away her days in luxury.
She isn’t likely to jump on top of your fridge or climb your curtains, but in return for her kind behavior, she will expect a comfy place in which she can be admired from.
6. Egyptian Mau
- Lifespan: 15-20 years
- Weight: 6 to 14 pounds
- Defining Characteristics: Chatty and Moderately Active
The strikingly beautiful spotted coat is not all this breed as to offer. The Egyptian Mau is a chatty breed that will vocalize his happiness in a distinctive “chortle.”
He likes to jump, climb, and show off his hunting prowess by retrieving a tossed toy. When he’s not playing fetch, he’s content to sit on a warm lap and be pampered.
5. Siamese
- Lifespan: 16-20 years
- Weight: 5 to 10 pounds
- Defining Characteristics: Chatty and Opinionated
You’ll never have to guess what a Siamese is thinking; she’ll be more than happy to tell you in a loud, raspy voice. She will also expect you to pay attention and do as she has requested.
Aside from being a bit “bossy,” the Siamese is also very loyal and loving. Although, you may find yourself with a pouty cat if you haven’t spent enough time with her.
Side note: tell me you don’t have the song from Lady & the Tramp running through your head right now! In case you don’t, here you go! Now we’ll all be singing it all day!
4. Savannah
- Lifespan: 17-20 years
- Weight: 8 to 10 plus pounds
- Defining Characteristics: Smart and Sly
The Savannah is a cross between a Serval and a domesticated feline. It has a striking coat of leopard-like spots and large, triangular ears.
This breed has been compared to dogs in the loyalty department. However, some Savannahs can be wary of strangers and a bit shy, while others will take to people of all “makes and models.”
3. Ragdoll
- Lifespan: 15-25 years
- Weight: 10 to 15 plus pounds
- Defining Characteristics: Lovable and Gentle
Known for collapsing into the arms of anyone who picks them up, the Ragdoll feline is an affectionate, happy breed.
They love people and will show their affection by following you around the house, snuggling into an inviting lap or even under the covers of a warm bed.
Maybe their easy-going lifestyle is why they have a long lifespan of up to 25 years?
2. Sphynx
- Lifespan: 15-20 (34) years
- Weight: 6 to 12 pounds
- Defining Characteristics: Demanding and Affectionate
Although this cat may look like he’s inside-out (they are hairless), what he lacks in hair follicles, he makes up for in affection. He loves to be handled and cared for by his human companions.
The Sphynx breed is also very intelligent and athletic. Perhaps this is why they have been known to live up to 20 years. The oldest Sphynx cat was 34 when he passed over the “rainbow bridge.”
1. Burmese
- Lifespan: 18-20 (35) years
- Weight: 8 to 12 plus pounds
- Defining Characteristics: Energetic and Friendly
Described as a “brick wrapped in silk” this sturdy cat has the determination of its Siamese cousins. The Burmese are known for getting along well with other cats and even some dogs.
He is curious and will give every inch of your home a throughout investigation. As far as longevity goes, the Burmese take the number one spot. The average lifespan is 18 to 20 years with the oldest Burmese passing on at 35 years-of-age!
How long with your Kitty companion live? Although these breeds can average out their lifespans, every feline is different. Genetics, diet, and lifestyle all play essential roles in your cat’s longevity.
To ensure your cat has a long, healthy life, be sure to feed them a good-quality diet, have them spayed or neutered, and keep them safely indoors away from harmful people, wildlife, and situations.
None of us know for sure what our pet’s future holds, so all we can do is love and cherish them while we still have the privilege of pet parenting our best furry buddies.
Did you have one of these longest living cat breeds? Share your experiences below!
What a really useful post. I never knew anything at all about which breeds live longest as everyone of course wants their pets to live as long as possible. So the Burmese won this one!
I have had Burmese cats for the past 40+ years. Each one lived to at least 17-19 years. They are trainable, lovable, affectionate, smart (sometimes too smart). I now have 2 siblings that are so much fun. They both play fetch. Both will let me know when it’s feeding time, bedtime and clean the potty box time. You can’t go wrong with a Burmese kitty.
those cats are the cutest. I really dont have ideas on cats. Thanks for posting. 🙂 🙂
Wow, so cute and so sad. I didn’t know about say. 🙁
Wow, I have never know that cats can have a life span for about 9 or 10 long years or more than that and I hope I can have one of these pretty cats.
Very useful and insightful post. If I know anyone looking for a new cat, I will most certainly tell them to read this first.
Cool round-up. Honestly I’m a dog person but have to watch a friends cat soon.
My Manx/ Persian mix is 22.5 years old and going strong! He is the sweetest boy and has outlasted all the other men in my life!