LifestyleAnimalsExperts say doing this could help improve your cat's chances of living a longer, healthier life12:41, 03 Jun 2026Cat owners could help their beloved pets live longer by encouraging them to adopt one key habit. A recent report claims that approximately 10.2 million cats are kept as pets across the UK, with most felines expected to live for 11.7 years or beyond.‌Cats Protection charity said that a cat's life expectancy depends on numerous factors, including health, weight, breed, sex, neuter status and their living environment. However, one particular habit could boost their chances of a longer life even further.‌Cats that venture outdoors face a greater risk of dangers such as road traffic accidents, fights with other cats and various other hazards that could threaten their lifespan. The same report highlighted that growing concerns over cats being injured or going missing have led more owners to opt for keeping their cats inside.‌A Cats Protection spokesperson said: "The risks of your cat being involved in a road traffic accident or fighting with another cat are higher at night. We recommend keeping them indoors when it's dark."With the UK approaching the summer, it stays lighter much later into the evening - sometimes beyond 10pm. But, in the winter, it could be dark before 4pm, reports the Express.‌However, keeping a cat indoors permanently could limit their opportunity to get enough exercise. For pet owners who wish their cat to enjoy the outside world, it is advisable to provide controlled, supervised access using a harness, a lead, or a secure outdoor enclosure.The charity went on to add: "It's important that indoor cats are able to perform behaviours that express their natural cat-like nature. If they can't, it leads to stress, which in turn may result in problem behaviours such as spraying or scratching in unwanted areas of the home, obsessive grooming or physical illness."Nearly a quarter (24%) of cat owners polled believe their feline companions will enjoy a longer life if kept indoors. But, there are still considerable risks linked to being an indoor pet — whether semi-permanently or full-time.‌A Cats Protection spokesperson said: "[Cats] can still develop diseases or illnesses that shorten their lifespan. The indoor environment predisposes to obesity and diseases that are related to a sedentary lifestyle, such as diabetes and lower urinary tract disease."Currently, there is limited evidence to suggest that adopting either an indoor or outdoor lifestyle results in a significantly longer lifespan. Both indoor and outdoor cats experience different potential risks to their welfare."Article continues belowHow to help your cat live longer:Here are some ways that responsible owners can boost their cat's life expectancy:Get them neutered: Cat's Protection claims that neutered cats tend to live longer. Possible reasons for this include the fact that neutered cats are less likely to roam far from home and to have close contact with other cats, reducing the risk of injury and the spread of disease.Have regular vet checks and get vaccinations: The charity claims that taking your cat to the vet for a check-up at least once a year will help you catch any health issues early so they can receive effective treatment. Make sure your cat is up to date with all their vaccinations, as this will help to protect them from "nasty diseases" that could shorten their lifeEncourage exercise: Whether your cat goes outdoors or not, try to spend a little bit of time each day encouraging them to play. This will help them get some exercise and stay physically fit.Feed a healthy diet: Make sure your cat is eating a complete cat food that is suitable for their age. This will provide all the nutrients they need for a long, healthy life. Avoid giving too many cat treats as these can be high in calories and cause them to put on weight.Choose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.‌CatsAnimalsAnimal crueltyMy PetsLife expectancy