The Longest Lives: Ranking the Oldest Cats of All Time
When it comes to the longevity of felines, some truly remarkable stories emerge. From domesticated pets to stray survivors, cats have captivated human hearts for centuries with their faithful companionship. This article delves into the world of the oldest cats ever recorded, exploring their tales of life and the secrets behind their extraordinary longevities.
A Guinness World Record Holder
The world's oldest living cat is Flossie, a 26-year-old Siamese in Orpington, England. According to Guinness World Records, Flossie's human equivalent age is approximately 120 years. The story of this remarkable cat began when she was adopted by a hospital worker as a stray in 1995. Over the years, Flossie's fortunes changed hands multiple times, each owner providing care and love. Her current owner is a home provided by Cats Protection in Turnbridge.
Flossie once even shared her thoughts on her longevity: “Clean living, not mixing with the riff raff, laying off the booze, and running after mice.” While this humorous response may not reveal the secret to her long life, it certainly captures the essence of her independent and carefree spirit.
Other Notable Survivors
Other cats have held the record for the longest-living domesticated cats, though they no longer hold the title in the present day. One such cat is Creme Puff, who lived in Texas until 2005 at the age of 38 years and 3 days. Her owner, Michele Gagnetic, has been credited with caring for Creme Puff for many years, perhaps contributing to her remarkable longevity.
Another remarkable cat, The Great Grandma Wad, was a 35-year-old cat from Thailand who lived an extraordinary life. While this specific record has since been surpassed, the inspiring story of this fierce feline remains a testament to the resilience and longevity of cats.
The Current Record Holder
As of the latest information, the current oldest cat is Corduroy, who is 26 years old and resides in Oregon. This puts her at a remarkably impressive age for a domesticated feline, and her longevity is certainly a subject of fascination and admiration among cat owners and enthusiasts alike.
Other Long-Living Felines
In the same vein, another notable cat mentioned is Henry, a tabby cat born in 1986, making him 35 years old as of 2016. Henry's story adds to the rich tapestry of long-living felines, showcasing the potential for domestic cats to live fulfilling and long lives with appropriate care and conditions.
Additionally, there is mention of a 34-year-old Siamese cat named Great Grandma Wad, who resides in Thailand. Despite her advanced age and even a bone injury from a dog attack, she continues to live life to the fullest. This cat's age translates to a human equivalent of 160 years, highlighting the incredible potential for cat longevity.
Conclusion
The records of the oldest cats in history paint a picture of both remarkable and heartwarming stories. From Flossie to Creme Puff, each cat has contributed to our understanding of how long domesticated felines can live under the right circumstances. If you ever find yourself wondering, "How long can a cat live?" you'll have a wealth of fascinating stories to draw from to inspire and inform your answer.