Trying to work out your pet’s age in human years? We’ve all heard that one human year equals seven dog ones, but there are several factors that can influence how your cat’s or dog’s ageing process works. Let’s look at them.
The first thing to consider is that cats and dogs mature at a much quicker rate than humans, and the first two years are particularly significant. In their first year of life, a cat or dog roughly compares to a 15-year-old human, while their second year would be akin to a 24-year-old adult. From year 3 onwards, each additional year counts as roughly four human years.
This table below helps illustrate this comparison:
Remember, this isn’t an exact science, but a general comparison model to help you gauge your pet’s approximate “human” age.
Dogs versus cats
Your pet’s life expectancy doesn’t depend on age alone. Other factors, such as size, sex and breed can also come into play.
For dogs, size is a key factor, as small and medium breeds tend to live longer than large breeds. For example, the average lifespan of a Great Dane (a giant breed) is around 10 years whereas Border Terriers (a small to medium-sized breed) often reach 14 years or more. One of the reasons for this is that in larger dogs, the organs have to work harder to support greater body mass and faster cell growth.
Then, what about cats? Well, it seems female cats are estimated to live 1.3 years longer than male cats, while breed can also influence cats’ lifespan. For example, Sphynx cats have been observed to have one of the lowest life expectancies (around 6.6 years), in contrast to Burmese and Birman cats, which have among the longest, at approximately 14.4 years.
It is also worth noting that purebreds can be more prone to inherited genetic disorders and have shorter lifespans – something that applies to both cats and dogs.
Indoor pets versus outdoor pets
There’s also the general consensus that indoor cats tend to live longer compared to those who are allowed outside. This makes sense when you think about some of the dangers outdoor cats can be exposed to: day-to-day hazards such as parasites, predators, road traffic, or coming into contact with poisons and antifreeze.
Of course, this is not to say that your outdoor cat will live a shorter life. But there are precautions you can take to minimise risks, like considering an indoor life if you live near a busy road, fitting your cat with a light-reflective cat collar, or simply keeping them indoors at night, which is when the risk of them being involved in a traffic accident is higher.
You’ve probably heard the saying “curiosity killed the cat”, so you’ll understand that cats can get themselves into all kinds of mischief!
Can I help my pet live longer?
The short answer is yes. In fact, how well you look after your four-legged friend can have as powerful an impact as genetics.
Both cats and dogs will benefit from a balanced diet. Proper nutrition can contribute to their overall health in so many ways: from strengthening immunity to supporting digestion and maintaining muscle mass and joints. Like with humans, it’s one of the main foundations of good health.
Another way to foster good health is by encouraging exercise. As with us, exercise stimulates your pet’s mind and body. It also helps regulate their weight and slow down muscle and joint deterioration. And let’s not forget how happy it can make our furry friends – it’s almost ingrained in their DNA.
While outdoor cats have the freedom to roam around as they please, creating a stimulating environment for indoor cats is key. Playing with your cat every day and providing plenty of cat toys and opportunities to climb and scratch will keep them fit and happy. Our cats love watching the birds outside, so we always have a few bird feeders installed near windows: doubling as free feline entertainment and a great way to support your local wildlife.
Lastly, taking your pet to the vet for their annual check-up is vital to keeping abreast of their health. We would also recommend neutering and spaying at a young age. These procedures can prevent certain types of cancer and infections. Plus, they save animals from the stress that comes with heat and pregnancy.
There may be no fail-safe formula for longevity, but one thing is certain: the care, love and attention you give your pet every day truly matter, with each small choice adding up to a happier, healthier life – perhaps even a longer one.
