Last Updated on September 20, 2021 by Fumipets

The “tabby” gene is found in all domestic cats, even kinds that don’t look like tabbies. Tabby cats are a pattern, not a breed. Tabbies’ body stripes, spots, and swirls, as well as the distinctive “M” on the forehead, are inherited from wild cat forebears.

Genetics

Many variables affect cat lifespan, however certain genes are recessive in particular breeds or have been altered via selective breeding to create or diminish unique characteristics. Colour and pattern are two genes that may mutate and create unexpected results, thus even a pure black cat can be a tabby with the pattern concealed inside the colour. On a black cat sitting in strong light, such underlying tabby patterns are often visible.

Some cats have lost many of the genes that their ancestors had as a result of selective breeding, and they are now farther from the tabby archetype, displaying traits such as different colours and patterns that are not connected with what we call a tabby.

Although all cats carry the tabby gene, the term “tabby” now exclusively refers to domestic cats with tabby patterns on the outside. Because they are genetically closer to the original wild cats from whom domestic cats sprang, those cats live longer than designated breeds such as Persians or Siamese, which have been moulded more precisely away from the tabby archetype by humans.

Diet And Exercise

Most cats, especially tabby cats, survive for 15 to 20 years, with some living much longer. Diet and exercise have a significant impact on longevity, just as they do in humans and other animals. A cat that consumes too much has a nutritionally deficient diet, or does not receive enough exercise is at risk for health issues such as heart disease, arthritis, and diabetes, all of which may lead to early mortality. Give your cat the longest life possible based on his genetics by giving him a nutritious, veterinarian-recommended food and making sure he gets enough indoor activity even when you can’t be there. Providing him with items to climb on or play with can help him remain physically and intellectually healthy by stimulating his muscles and brain.

Indoor Vs. Outdoor

Indoor cats live longer than outdoor cats. Outdoor cats live just two or three years on average, while indoor cats live seven times longer. The causes are straightforward, though diverse. Traffic, infectious feline illnesses, predation, traps, severe weather, dog attacks, and pet theft are among dangers that indoor cats seldom or never experience. The more of these potentially life-threatening hazards you can keep your pet away from, the longer it will live. An indoor cat will flourish in a stable, fascinating, and caring household setting.

Non-Tangibles Contributions To Longevity

It’s pretty simple to enumerate the conditions under which a pet should live a long life, but the elements that have the most impact on the longevity of our beloved cats are typically those we can’t see or easily describe. All pets flourish in a peaceful and caring environment. Giving your cat your undivided attention and friendship will have an unmistakable effect on her emotional and physical wellbeing. Playing interactive games encourages your cat to roam around, which provides much-needed exercise. Talking softly to her or just stroking her provides good signals that decrease stress and improve her health, which adds to her long life.