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Top 10 Oldest Cats in the World

Cats are often cherished for their companionship and the comfort they bring to their owners. Among the many fascinating records held by cats, their longevity is particularly noteworthy. Some cats have lived exceptionally long lives, achieving ages well beyond the typical lifespan expected for the species. In this article, we will explore the top 10 oldest cats ever recorded, shedding light on their lives and the care they received to help them live so long.

1. Creme Puff

  • Lifespan: August 3, 1967 – August 6, 2005 (38 years and 3 days)
  • Location: Austin, Texas, USA
  • Owner: Jake Perry

Creme Puff holds the Guinness World Record for the oldest cat ever. She lived with her owner Jake Perry, who attributed her longevity to a diet that included bacon, eggs, broccoli, and coffee with cream. Remarkably, Jake Perry also owned another cat, Grandpa Rex Allen, who nearly made this list as well.

2. Baby

  • Lifespan: 1970 – November 6, 2009 (38 years)
  • Location: Duluth, Minnesota, USA
  • Owner: Al Palusky

Baby missed beating Creme Puff’s record by just three days. His owner, Al Palusky, emphasized the importance of love and care, alongside a well-maintained diet, as the secret to Baby’s long life.

3. Puss

  • Lifespan: November 28, 1903 – November 29, 1939 (36 years and 1 day)
  • Location: United Kingdom
  • Owner: Not documented

Puss is one of the earliest recorded cases of a cat reaching an extraordinary age, living over 36 years. This remarkable lifespan set an early benchmark for feline longevity.

4. Ma

  • Lifespan: 1923 – November 5, 1957 (34 years)
  • Location: Drewsteignton, Devon, United Kingdom
  • Owner: Alice St. George Moore

Ma, a tabby cat, enjoyed a quiet life in the Devon countryside, which may have contributed to her long life. Her serene environment and the care she received from Alice St. George Moore helped her reach the age of 34.

5. Granpa Rexs Allen

  • Lifespan: February 1, 1964 – April 1, 1998 (34 years)
  • Location: Austin, Texas, USA
  • Owner: Jake Perry

Another cat owned by Jake Perry, Granpa Rexs Allen, a Sphynx adopted from the Humane Society, lived to the ripe old age of 34. His diet, similar to Creme Puff’s, included unusual items such as broccoli and coffee with cream.

6. Scooter

  • Lifespan: March 26, 1986 – April 8, 2016 (30 years)
  • Location: Mansfield, Texas, USA
  • Owner: Gail Floyd
Top 10 Oldest Cats in the World' with the heading prominently displayed. The graphic features ten cats of various breeds and coat patterns, each labeled with its name and age

Scooter was recognized by the Guinness World Records as the world’s oldest living cat in 2016 before his death. He remained active and loved traveling, often accompanying his owner Gail Floyd on trips.

7. Rubble

  • Lifespan: May 1988 – May 2020 (31 years)
  • Location: Exeter, Devon, United Kingdom
  • Owner: Michele Heritage

Rubble, a Maine Coon, lived a pampered life with Michele Heritage, who attributed his long life to lots of love and a stress-free life without any kids or other pets.

8. Tiffany Two

  • Lifespan: March 13, 1988 – May 22, 2015 (27 years)
  • Location: San Diego, California, USA
  • Owner: Sharon Voorhees

Tiffany Two was the world’s oldest cat living at the time of her death. Sharon Voorhees, her owner, provided a loving home that contributed to her longevity.

9. Sarah

  • Lifespan: March 1994 – August 2016 (22 years)
  • Location: Australia
  • Owner: Not documented

Sarah lived to be 22 years old, enjoying a sunny Australian climate and good care, though not much is documented about her life.

10. Lucy

  • Lifespan: 1972 – 2011 (39 years)
  • Location: South Wales, United Kingdom
  • Owner: Not documented

Lucy is often claimed to be the oldest cat ever, potentially reaching 39 years of age,

though her exact birth date is not officially documented. She enjoyed a peaceful rural life which likely contributed to her longevity.

Top 20 Oldest Cats Summary Table

Here’s a table summarizing these extraordinary cats:

RankNameAge (Years)CountryBreedYears Lived
1Creme Puff38USADomestic Cat1967–2005
2Baby38USADomestic Cat1970–2008
3Puss36UKDomestic Cat1903–1939
4Granpa Rexs Allen34USASphynx/Devon Rex1964–1998
5Ma34UKDomestic Cat1923–1957
6Scooter30USASiamese1986–2016
7Rubble31UKMaine Coon1988–2020
8Whiskey33UKDomestic Cat1978–2011
9Sarah33New ZealandDomestic Cat1982–2015
10Misha31USADomestic Cat1968–1999
11Kitty31UKDomestic Cat1977–2008
12Tabby31UKTabby1977–2008
13Spike31UKDomestic Cat1970–2001
14Tiger31USADomestic Cat1986–2017
15Lucy31UKDomestic Cat1972–2003
16Dusty31USADomestic Cat1984–2015
17Nutmeg31UKTabby1985–2016
18Cream Puff31USADomestic Cat1989–2020
19Ginger30USAGinger Tabby1979–2009
20Blackie30USADomestic Shorthair1970–2000

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the world’s oldest cats, which might help you understand more about these extraordinary felines and what contributes to their longevity:

What is the average lifespan of a domestic cat?

  • Answer: The average lifespan of a domestic cat is typically around 15 years. Indoor cats generally live longer than outdoor cats due to less exposure to threats such as traffic and disease.

How can I help my cat live a longer life?

  • Answer:
  • Regular Veterinary Care: Regular check-ups can prevent diseases and catch health issues before they become serious.
  • Proper Diet: Feeding your cat a balanced diet suitable for their age, health status, and lifestyle helps maintain their overall health.
  • Regular Exercise: Keeping your cat active helps them maintain a healthy weight and reduces their risk of diseases like diabetes.
  • Safe Environment: Providing a safe and stimulating environment can reduce stress and prevent accidents.

What are the signs of aging in cats?

  • Answer:
  • Decreased Activity: Older cats are usually less active, may sleep more, and may have trouble accessing high places.
  • Weight Changes: They may experience weight gain or loss as their metabolism changes.
  • Behavioral Changes: Changes in behavior, such as increased irritability or disorientation, are common.
  • Health Issues: Increased frequency of urinary tract diseases, kidney diseases, thyroid issues, etc.

Can cats live to 20 years or more?

  • Answer: Yes, with good care, some cats can live into their 20s. It’s less common but not rare for cats to reach this age, especially in environments that minimize risk and stress.

Who was Creme Puff, and why is she famous?

  • Answer:
  • Creme Puff was a cat who lived to be 38 years old, making her the oldest cat ever recorded. She lived in Austin, Texas, with her owner, Jake Perry, who attributed her longevity to a diet that included turkey bacon, eggs, broccoli, and coffee with cream.

How common is it for a cat to live over 30 years?

  • Answer: It is quite rare for cats to live over 30 years. Only a few documented cases exist, and these cats often receive extensive media attention due to their unusual longevity.

What was the diet of the oldest cats?

  • Answer:
  • The diets varied significantly, but common themes were high-quality protein and limited processed foods. For example, Jake Perry’s cats (Creme Puff and Granpa Rexs Allen) were fed an unconventional diet that included eggs, turkey bacon, broccoli, and coffee with cream.

Are certain breeds of cats likely to live longer?

  • Answer:
  • There isn’t definitive scientific evidence linking specific breeds to longer life. However, mixed-breed cats often have genetic diversity on their side, which can contribute to overall health and longevity.

How do I know if my cat is doing well for its age?

  • Answer:
  • Good Physical Condition: A healthy weight, clear eyes, and clean teeth are signs of good health.
  • Active and Engaged: Continuing interest in play and exploration.
  • Social Behavior: Maintaining social interactions with humans and possibly other pets.

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