Most of us pet owners wish our beloved companions could live forever. Unfortunately, most of us will have to say goodbye to our furry friends far sooner than we’d like. But just how long will we get to be together? If you’ve ever wondered, how long can I expect my pet to live, this guide can help you get a better understanding of pet lifespans:
Canine Lifespans
Our loyal canine companions leave a big impression in a short amount of time. In general, dogs will live 8-17 years. A lot of factors can affect how long a dog will live. These include:
- Breed: Certain breeds are more predisposed to health conditions that could affect lifespan than others. Do research when you get a dog to learn about the breed and whether or not they are likely to suffer health issues that could take them sooner than you’d like.
- Size: Larger dogs tend to live shorter lives than small dogs. They age faster than their smaller counterparts, and their size and weight can put a lot of strain on their organs. A large breed like a great Dane might only live 8-10 years, while a small breed like a Boston terrier might live 12-15 years.
- Diet: Dogs who eat a healthy diet and maintain a healthy weight are less likely to develop health issues like diabetes. But dogs who eat a poor diet or too much food can suffer obesity side effects that could shorten their lifespan.
- Veterinary Care: Regular wellness visits are paramount to a healthy lifespan for a dog. They enable the vet to monitor health baselines, and spot any potential issues early. Dogs can also get important vaccinations during wellness visits that help them avoid preventable diseases.
- Environment: Dogs that grow up well cared for in safe home environments are more likely to live longer, healthier lives.
Feline Lifespans
Most house cats have a lifespan of 13-17 years, with many living closer to the age of 20. Cats in the wild might have significantly shorter life expectancies, with an average of just 2-17 years. These factors all affect a feline lifespan:
- Diet: A healthy diet full of proper nutrition is important to help your cat live as long as possible. Cats are obligate carnivores, which means they need plenty of animal protein in their diet. Talk to your veterinarian about the best food for your kitty.
- Spaying and Neutering: Altered cats tend to live longer because they have a significantly decreased risk of developing certain reproductive disorders.
- Exercise: Just like for dogs, a healthy weight can help a cat live as long as possible. An active lifestyle helps a cat stay fit and decreases the risk of obesity and the harmful effects that come with it.
- Veterinary Care: Regular veterinary visits will keep your cat healthier longer. From vaccinations to routine lab work, this medical attention increases the chance of a long and healthy life.
- Indoor Living: Cats that remain exclusively indoors are more likely to live longer lives. Outdoor cats encounter far more dangerous situations, including other animals, cars, and exposure to diseases. If you want your cat to have the longest lifespan possible, you might want to keep her inside all the time.
How long can I expect my pet to live? With good nutrition and care as we describe above, you are likely to experience the maximum lifespan for your breed or type of pet. Mutts generally tend to live longer than purebred dogs. The average mutt lifespan is 13-14 years, but that is affected by a dog’s health, diet, and breed combination.
The team at Westarbor Animal Hospital can help your dog or cat enjoy a longer lifespan. Our well-rounded veterinary services make it easy to give your pets the care they need. Call (734) 769-5391 to schedule a wellness visit.
