Age is just a number, right? A Human who is 60 years old may seem like a young adult, while another human the same age may act like he or she is on a deathbed. Cats can be the same way! Your pet may act like a kitten for many years or may be gray and achy very young. Specific breed, environment, and genetics play a role, but in general, a well-cared for house cat usually lives to be at least 15 years old. Some cats can live to be well over 30.

There are things you can do, however, to provide your cat with the chance for the longest life possible. For example, have your cat spayed or neutered. Statistics show that fixed cats live longer, because this causes the cat to stay closer to home and be exposed to few dangerous situations and disease. Good nutrition is also important. Make sure that you are buying cat food that is made for your cat's age.

As you cat gets older, certain medical conditions may cause you to make special considerations for your cat. Examples include reduced tolerance to extreme temperatures, decreased sensory perception, susceptibility to infection, arthritis and joint stiffness, digestion problems, liver and kidney problems, weaker bones, cancer, muscle weakness, slow reaction, memory loss, high blood pressure, and irritability.

Along with a good diet, promote healthy amounts of exercise for your cat. You can do this by allowing your cat to go outside. You can also play with your cat everyday. Toys and environmental pieces, like scratching posts, are great for encouraging your cat to exercise. Remember, cats may spend a lot of the day sleeping, which is fine. If you are concerned, talk to your vet about your cat's sleeping habits.

Preventative health care is, important. Make sure that your cat has regular checkups with the vet to make sure everything is all right. You should also brush your cat's teeth every day and have your cat groomed regularly to prevent skin diseases. As cats age, most grow to love grooming. Monitor your cat for diet chances, changing sleep habits, and unsafe water consumption. The key to graceful aging in a cat is and owner who is well involved in his or her life. Make sure that you provide advanced care for your cat as he or she grows, and your cat should be a part of your life for a quite a long time.