Want to know your cat's age in human years? Use our cat years chart to determine your cat's equivalent human age and provide the support your cat needs as it ages.
The popular belief is that one human year equals seven' cat years.' However, in truth, a one-year-old cat is more mature than a seven-year-old child. Read on to understand your cat's lifespan and discover their age in human years in this comprehensive guide.
What exactly is a cat year?
A cat's age corresponds to multiple human years and varies with each stage of life. Simple calculations can help us convert cat years to human years. This knowledge helps us comprehend a cat's development and enables us to address their age-related health issues, food requirements, and energy levels.
How old is my cat in human years?
Similar to dogs, cats experience rapid aging during the first two years of their lives. During a cat's first year, it reaches an approximate human age of 15; by the second year, it is comparable to a 24-year-old human. After this, for each additional calendar year, a cat ages approximately four "cat years." For example, if your cat is six years old, its corresponding age in human years would be around 41. While other factors like breed can also play a role in determining a cat's age in human years, this general guide is a pretty accurate estimation.
It's worth mentioning that there is currently no accurate scientific method for determining the correlation between human and cat years, but most cat experts generally accept these guidelines.
Cat age chart
Check out our cat age calculator below to compare cat years to human years and see the variations.
| Cat Years | Human Years |
| 1 year | 15 years |
| 2 years | 24 years |
| 3 years | 28 years |
| 4 years | 32 years |
| 5 years | 36 years |
| 6 years | 40 years |
| 7 years | 44 years |
| 8 years | 48 years |
| 9 years | 52 years |
| 10 years | 56 years |
| 11 years | 60 years |
| 12 years | 64 years |
| 13 years | 68 years |
| 14 years | 72 years |
| 15 years | 76 years |
| 16 years | 80 years |
| 17 years | 84 years |
| 18+ years | 88 years |
What is the average cat's life expectancy?
Life expectancy varies, but indoor cats typically have longer lives than outdoor cats. Generally, indoor cats live 16 to 18 years, with some even make it to the impressive age of 20. Outdoor cats generally have a lifespan of 10-14 years.
A cat's life expectancy also differs depending on their breed, with some breeds naturally living longer than others. Siamese and Manx breeds, for instance, are believed to have the longest lifespan, potentially living to a venerable age in human years.
According to certain reports, the oldest cat in the world lived for 34 years. This is equivalent to 153 years in human age! Find additional intriguing facts about cats here.
Cats also live much longer than in previous decades because of technological advancements and ethical changes. This is a positive development, as we are spending more time with our pet cats.
How do cats experience aging?
Cats experience rapid aging during their initial two years, after which the pace of aging slows and becomes more steady. A cat's age is calculated based on its physical and behavioral shifts and compared to the stages of a human's life cycle.
Why is it important to know a cat's age in human years?
First, it's important to ensure your cat receives appropriate nutrition. Kittens require different dietary needs than adult or senior cats.
Second, knowing your cat's age in human years can help you anticipate and be prepared for any age-related health conditions that will eventually arise. Older cats may require more frequent vet check-ups and specialized care.
Lastly, being aware of your cat's age allows you to celebrate its milestones and provide age-appropriate toys and activities.
Pay attention to these signs and discuss them with your vet to guarantee your feline friend is given the care and support they require. Recognizing the life phase your cat is in enables you to provide optimal care.
How can I tell my cat's age?
Determining your cat's age is best done by visiting a veterinarian. However, you can still search for specific indications of your cat's age and well-being. Although it's not easy to accurately determine a cat's age, various techniques can assist you in making an informed estimate. These signs can be observed in cats teeth, fur, eyes, muscle mass, and bones.
Another consideration that could impact the aging process of cats is whether they live indoors or outdoors. The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) acknowledges this has valid arguments on both sides.
The AAHA suggests indoor cats are less prone to trauma and certain infectious diseases, potentially leading to longer lifespans. However, due to limited exposure to the natural environment, indoor cats may face a higher risk of illness.
The situation is the opposite for outdoor cats. While they can benefit from a stimulating natural environment, they are at a higher risk of trauma and disease exposure.
With all that said, there is no contention that indoor cats enjoy longer life spans than outdoor cats. Outdoor cats have a higher risk of meeting with accidents and catching illnesses. In contrast, indoor cats are shielded from these risks and usually receive regular veterinary care, contributing to their overall health and longevity.
Ultimately, it's the responsibility of each cat owner to determine which lifestyle option is best for their cat.
How to tell a cat's age by examining its teeth
You can estimate a cat's age by examining its teeth. Kittens will have their baby teeth (deciduous teeth) changed into permanent adult teeth around four months of age.
After all the baby teeth have gone, it becomes more of an estimate. Some cats have worse teeth than others due to inadequate diet or lack of veterinary care. However, a young cat under three years old will generally have a few yellow stains on its mostly-white teeth. If you notice tartar on all or most permanent teeth, the cat may be a bit older, around five years. And if you observe significant yellow or brown staining or even some missing teeth, you're likely looking at a senior cat. If you're unsure, your vet can assist you in determining your cat's age.
Other age-related changes in cats
You can also estimate your cat's age by looking at its behavior and physical traits. Young cats are often more playful and lively, while holder cats are generally calmer and less energetic.
The state of a cat's fur also indicates its age. Young cats usually have soft and fluffy fur, whereas older cats may have thinner, less vibrant colors on their coats or even grey hair. Older cats also exhibit less flexibility and even hazy eyes.
Decoding your cat's age
Cat age is affected by genetics, breed, and general health. Certain breeds may tend to specific health issues that influence their life expectancy. A cat's age is further influenced by its environment and lifestyle. Ensuring your furry companion has a well-rounded diet, regular physical activity, and consistent veterinary care can help promote a lengthy and healthy life.
Why is knowing your cat's age in human years important?
Now that you know how to properly calculate and estimate your cat's equivalent age in human years, you'll be more equipped on what care to give your cat at every phase of their lives.
