15 Cat Breeds That Live the Longest

There are many things to consider when picking a cat breed, but for most people, the most important factor is how long the cat is likely to live. If you’re hoping for a kitty companion that will stick around well into middle age for you, this guide looks at 15 breeds that are known to have long lives, as well as some of their defining features.

What Breed of Cat is Right for You?

Choosing a cat breed for first time owners that has a good chance of living a long life starts with understanding what the different breeds are like. For example, some breeds are known to be clownish and playful, while others are more serious and independent or loving. Here are 15 cat breeds with not only good genetics but also the right kind of temperament that could help pave the way for a long life.

1. Siamese

Life expectancy: 15-20 years
For their beautiful, striking appearance, the Siamese cat may be the most well-known breed of cat. They have stunning blue eyes with an “almond” shape. Siamese come in many different colors, but those that have a classical appearance have a pale cream coat with dark points (the “Siamese” color) and “Siamese” ears. The point-wise patterning of the cat’s coat makes it look like a work of art. The bodies of the Siamese are like the bodies of the ancient Greek statues: slender, long, and elegant. According to the standards of the breed, the best-looking Siamese are nearly bald, with their skin and muscle tone having always a bit more definition, as if they’re always warmed up for an action scene.

2. Munchkin

Lifespan: 12-15 years
Cats known as Munchkins are famously characterized by their short legs. This is the result of a genetic mutation. Even so, these cats are well known for their energetic and playful personalities. If energy and playfulness aren’t enough to recommend a Munchkin to you, consider their affection and friendliness. They get along quite well with children and other pets, which makes them a pretty ideal family companion.

3. Balinese

Life expectancy: 15-20 years
The Balinese is a cat that is very similar in nature, if not identical, to the Siamese, except for the length of its hair. Balinese cats are very intelligent, very social, and very elegant, with a lovely coat that is surprisingly easy to keep in good condition. Balinese bond very closely with their human counterparts and are quite vocal. They tend not to be shy with new people and are quite playful. In general, they are excellent family pets.

4. Burmese

Life expectancy: 16-18 years
Muscular, medium-sized, with a gleaming coat, the Burmese is a sight to behold—and that’s before it really starts to show off its personality. Cats have a reputation for being aloof, but don’t tell that to the Burmese. These cats are as affectionate as they come. They are loyal to their humans, following them around and interacting with them in a delightfully dog-like manner. When it comes to playtime, the Burmese are tireless.

5. Russian Blue

Life expectancy: 15-20 years
Renowned for their short, dense, bluish-gray pelts and striking green eyes, Russian Blue cats are companions of almost aristocratic appearance. They are gentle but can be shy. Once they overcome their initial hesitance, however, they become very attached to their humans. Russian Blues are also quiet, soft-voiced cats that are playful but kind of calm. On top of that, they are fairly easy to maintain, requiring almost no grooming.

6. Sphinx

Lifespan: 15-20 years
The Sphinx is a well-known breed. It’s best known for its lack of fur. This hairless breed is incredibly affectionate and loves being the center of attention. Sphinx cats are known for their playful, energetic nature and are very social, often described as “clownish” due to their entertaining antics. Despite their lack of fur, they require regular skin care to maintain their health, which makes them somewhat high maintenance.

7. Persian

Lifespan: 15-20 years
Persian cats sport luxurious long fur and a laid-back, gentle personality. They adore the love of their family but are shy around newcomers. They seek quiet spaces instead of raucous ones. With the Persian’s calm demeanor, it’s easy to see why the breed is such a popular choice.

The long fur requires a committed effort to keep it healthy and free from mats. Daily combing for half an hour is the recommended standard, along with regular baths. As Alex the adopted Persian teaches his Youtube viewers, a decompressed Persian coat is the best kind. Even when he’s a tiny bit grumpy, Alex keeps it real with the coif.

8. Bombay Cat

Life expectancy: 15-20 years
The Bombay cat is a breed of cat that has a history in America; it was created around 1965. The Bombay looks like a miniature panther. They have a sleek black coat, which seems to shine. They have rounded, almost cat-like, skulls. Their eyes are copper or gold, and they are very bright, almost intelligent-looking, when one considers that they are seeing into the ultraviolet spectrum (which humans cannot). They have a playful personality and are very affectionate.

9. American Shorthair

Lifespan: 15-20 years
The American Shorthair is recognized for its sturdy health and long life. These cats are flexible, easygoing, and sociable. They are wonderful hunters and enjoy their playtime but also appreciate a lovely, quiet moment. They are good with kids and get along with most every creature. If you want a cat that you can play with and a sturdy, healthy companion to grow old with, then the American Shorthair is an ideal choice.

10. Manx

Life Expectancy: 15-20 years
The Manx cat is famous for the absence of a tail, although some may have short tails. They are a playful and intelligent breed known for their loyalty to families. Some Manx exhibit a dog-like behavior, including a tendency to play fetch. They are excellent hunters and enjoy interactive play.

11. Maine Coon

Lifespan: 12-15 years
The Maine Coon is one of the biggest domesticated cat breeds. It has a friendly and gentle nature, coupled with a large, sociable, and family-oriented presence. It has a long, heavy body; a long, bushy tail; and a medium-length coat that requires regular grooming. The coat is waterproof and very dense. Despite their size, Maine Coons are very graceful and agile. They love to climb and play.

12. Egyptian Mau

Lifespan: 15-20 years
The  Egyptian Mau cat is one of the few domestic cat breeds to have a coat that is naturally spotted. It comes from Egypt and is essentially a hybrid between a wild cat and a domestic cat. Because of that history, it is very active and loves to climb. Unlike most spotted cats, it has a very close-cropped coat. The Egyptian Mau also has strong bonds with its owners and is a very affectionate cat. It has been known to sit for long hours on its owner’s lap.

13. Savannah Cat

Lifespan: 12-20 years
Savannah cats are a hybrid breed, a cross between a domestic cat and a serval, a wild cat that hails from Africa. They are recognized for their large ears, long legs, and spotted coats. They have the physique and demeanor of the quintessential athlete. Savannah cats are extremely active and require a lot of stimulation—both mental and physical—to be happy and healthy. They’re also extremely intelligent and can be trained to do certain commands. Some owners of Savannah cats—who are, in part, responsible for the increase in the price of these cats—claim that they can walk them on leashes, but doing so does require the use of a bit of Savannah magic.

14. Cornish Rex

Lifespan: 15-20 years
The Cornish Rex is recognizable by its unique appearance among domestic cats. The breed has just four basic features: a soft, wavy coat; a long, skinny body; a long, thin neck; and surprisingly large ears. The Cornish Rex despite its appearance is very powerful and strong for its size—an effect of the breed’s high-energy metabolism. The Rex will need space to play and an owner willing to indulge its demands for attention.

When deciding which  breed of cat with blue eyes to welcome into your home, one aspect to consider is how long that breed is likely to live. The breeds mentioned above tend to have significantly longer lifespans than average. They also have fairly diverse traits and personalities. If you want a breed that has a good chance of living a long time, the cat breeds listed above are excellent candidates.

Besides selecting a breed known for its long lifespan, other important factors contribute to the cat’s longevity and health. One is diet. Cats, regardless of their length of life, are healthier if they are fed a species-appropriate, high-quality diet. Not all cats want or need the same diet, and some cats have weight or health issues that require dietary adjustments. Your first step in ensuring that your cat has a diet that fits its individual needs is a consultation with your veterinarian. Another important factor is regular veterinary care. Routine care—including check-ups, a proper vaccination protocol, and dental care—enables your veterinarian to detect and resolve problems before they become serious.

Play, physical activity, and even the simple cat tree help keep a cat healthy, both physically and mentally. The kinds of activities a cat engages in may be the best predictors of a long, happy life. Your cat also needs a good home, one that’s safe, clean, and stress-free. Studies suggest that indoor cats live longer than outdoor cats.

When it comes to genetics, you should understand any health problems that are specific to the breeds you are considering. A knowledgeable breeder will. But even before you talk to a breeder, you need to educate yourself. Long-lived breeds, like the Abyssinian, are not free of poor health. Breeders cannot guarantee good health. But responsible breeders can help identify likely health issues and mitigate them through conscious breeding decisions.