Unexpected Ways to Increase Pet Longevity

Humans will go to any length to feel younger and live longer. Shouldn’t you think the same about your pets? While all animals have different pet life expectancy, increasing your pet’s longevity safely and consciously is of the utmost importance.

Human longevity is always increasing due to the progress in medicine, and much is the same for pets. Since we all want to love our pets longer, let’s discover ways you can increase canine longevity and ensure they live a happy and healthy life.

Domesticated Vs. Feral Life Expectancy

Did you know that domesticated animals as pets have an increased lifespan in contrast to feral animals? Take the feline, for instance. In the wild, pet lifespan is only a few years. A domesticated, indoor cat's lifespan is anywhere from 15 to 20 years.

Their much more extended cat longevity is in large part due to the love and affection they will receive by their owners. Even if you allow your cat to live outdoors part-time, you could drastically cut down on the longevity of your pet. There are multiple ways their lifespan is impacted, including running the risk of being hit by a vehicle, being attacked by other animals, ingesting poisonous materials, contracting diseases, and injury or death by other humans. That being said, it is essential to keep your cat indoors only, if at all possible.

Breed Factors and the Longevity of Your Pet

Dog life expectancy has a lot to do with genetics. Did you know that pet breeds often determine their life expectancy?

For instance, smaller breeds tend to live longer than larger breeds. Owning a larger dog breed like a Great Dane could result in a shorty life expectancy than its small counterparts, such as terriers.

Even cat breeds such as Burmese and Siamese have longer life expectancies than other kinds. Inbreeding seems to make a difference in the reduction of a pet’s lifespan, as well. Often, mixing animal breeds can be correlated to a longer lifespan.

Preventative Ways to Increase Pet Longevity

When it comes to the above correlation between breed and size, it is a matter of luck. However, there is more you can do when ensuring the longevity of your pet. Here’s what helps with keeping the love going between you and your pet for years to come:

Preventative Care

You should provide your pets with primary pet care. You should be on track with wellness exams, teeth cleanings, and more. Practicing preventative care will help your veterinarian identify and treat your pet. The deliberate practice will also ensure your veterinarian can reduce or mitigate any health concerns or problems.

Spay & Neuter

Did you know? By spaying and neutering your pets, you are protecting them from cancers such as ovarian, uterine, and testicular types. Such problems will shorten your pet’s life.

Vaccinations

Keeping your pet up to date on its vaccines and parasite prevention helps many diseases to be kept away. Any disease can be devastating and reduce your pet’s longevity, so it is best to stay up to date.

Healthy Weight

Ensuring your pet is at a reasonable and healthy weight, and getting your pet the proper exercise will do good in the long-run. Weight management prevents heart disease, diabetes, and some cancers from shortening your pet’s lifespan.

How do dogs lead to longevity?

Evidence suggests that you're more likely to live longer if you're caring for a dog. This is because dogs have many different health benefits such as reducing your risk of dying from cardiovascular and other stress-related diseases by 24%.

What helps with dog longevity?

Just like us, a healthy diet and an active lifestyle can help your canine friend live longer. Regular grooming and dental hygiene are also of utmost importance. Poor oral hygiene can lead to plaque, gingivitis, and other serious illnesses like heart diseases and organ damage in dogs.

What dog has the longest lifespan?

The breed that holds the title for the longest-living dog in Guinness record is the Australian cattle dog named Bluey, who lived for 29 years. This rare large breed has an expected lifespan of around 12 to 15 years.

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