While no one wants to think about their best friend passing, understanding when you might expect to lose a pet can help you prepare. Not only can you brace yourself emotionally, but also determine when to modify care practices to accommodate your aging cat or dog. Discover some life span projections for pets here so you can frame your expectations accordingly.

How Long Do Cats Live?

In general, most cats live between 10 and 15 years, yet many variables play a role in life span. For instance, while outdoor cats with limited supervision may only live to the age of seven, indoor cats face minimized health risks and may live to 14 or older.

Moreover, different breeds have varying average life spans. While a European shorthair may live up to 22 years old, for example, the average life span for a Siberian cat is 11 to 15 years. Of course, it’s possible to lose a pet before their projected life span because of a disease or accident.

How Long Do Dogs Live?

The life span of canines is largely influenced by size. Dogs under 20 pounds typically live for 11 years on average, while those over 90 pounds have an approximate life span of eight years.

Breed also factors into the equation. Miniature poodles, for instance, have a life expectancy of 14 years, while boxers and bulldogs tend to live to be 9 and 6, respectively.

How Old Is Your Pet in Human Years?

Since life expectancy for dogs and cats can vary, comparing a pet’s age to its human age equivalent provides a better understanding for you, helping you develop emotional readiness and plan to lose a pet. Additionally, by the time a pet reaches their mid-life point, you may see a decline in energy levels. Giving them a cozy place to sleep, talking to your veterinarian about food formulated specially for seniors, and looking into pain management practices will provide your pet with a rich and comfortable life into their golden years.

The human age equivalent for a cat is estimated as follows: give them roughly one to three human years for every month of life until they’ve reached two years of age, at which point they’re considered roughly 24 human years old. Thereafter, add approximately four years of human life for every year they age.

For dogs, start at human age 15 for one year of life, then 21 for two years. Thereafter, add four years of human life for every year of life for dogs 20 pounds or less, five years for 20 to 50-pound dogs, six years for 50 to 90-pound dogs, and seven years for dogs over 90 pounds.

 

When it’s time for Hawaii residents to say goodbye to their pets, the compassionate team from Oahu Pet Crematory is here to help. The caring professionals know that to lose a pet can be one of life’s greatest challenges, which is why they work with veterinary hospitals to provide comprehensive memorial and cremation services. Have your vet call (808) 371-7531 to arrange for cremation and pet memorial urns, or visit the crematory’s website to learn more about their offerings.