Female or male cats live longer?

According to the latest research, the average expected remaining lifespan of cats after the first year of life is 11.7 years .

According to the Guardian newspaper , a team of researchers from the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) in the UK and National Chung Hsing University in Taiwan analyzed data from 7,936 cats registered veterinaryly in the UK and found died between January 1, 2019 and March 31, 2021 to calculate their expected lifespan.

Research shows that hybrid cats live longer than purebred cats - (Photo: REUTERS).

Overall, the average expected remaining lifespan of cats after the first year of life is 11.7 years . Females usually live longer (12.5 years) than males (11.2 years).

The Sphynx hairless cat breed has the shortest lifespan, with the expected remaining life time after the first year of life being only 6.7 years. The reason may be related to their risk of various diseases.

Meanwhile, Burmese and Birman cats can live more than 14 years; Siamese cats can live another 11.7 years, while Bengal cats can live another 8.5 years.

The research team found that hybrid breeds (accounting for 88% of cats) have a longer lifespan than purebred breeds . Accordingly, hybrid breeds have an average remaining lifespan after the first year of life of 11.9 years compared to 10.4 years for purebred breeds.

Expected lifespan chart of some popular cat breeds based on data from 7,936 cats registered veterinaryly in the UK - (Source: VetCompass/Graphic: Guardian).

Mr. Dan O'Neill, co-author of the study and working at RVC, said the above difference is huge. According to him, if owners want their cats to live a little longer, the group now has evidence for them to refer to about raising a female, mixed-breed cat.

Additionally, cats that are not neutered have a shorter lifespan while those of average weight live longer than those that are heavier or lighter.

Mr O'Neill said the research gives cat lovers a tool to understand and predict their cats' future lifespans. This is also important for future owners, charities and veterinarians.

At the same time, the study also helps people who are considering the cost of expensive and painful medical care or surgery for their cats.