When it comes to the most common types of household pets that people have, you might be surprised at the top 15 that live the longest. If you’re interested in bringing a new or an additional animal into your home but you want one with a decent life expectancy, this information will help.
Sure, you could go out and buy some kind of exotic pet but along with a high price tag, they often require special care. But with an ordinary pet, you have a broad range of options. Most of them are inexpensive, and surprisingly, many of them live much longer than you might anticipate.
The exact amount of time these pets live depends on their care, diet, health, and getting regular exercise.
1. Lizards
Depending on the species, lizards generally live anywhere from 4 to 20 years. As an example, once a Chameleon comes out of its shell, it only lives three to four years. In comparison, a Green Iguana has a lifespan of roughly 15 years while a Leopard Gecko can live 20 years or more.
2. Goldfish
This type of fish is often a first pet, especially for children just learning to care for an animal. If kept inside of a small bowl or aquarium, most only last two to three years. But if you increase the size of their environment, they live longer. Even better, keeping them in an outdoor pond, the common Goldfish has a lifespan of approximately 14 years.
3. Terrier
There are many different Terrier breeds and for that reason, the average lifespan is between 13 and 15 years. A good rule of thumb…the smaller the dog the longer it’ll live. Those with the longest life expectancy include the Parson Russell Terrier, Cairn Terrier, Jack Russell Terrier, and Highland White Terrier.
4. Pomeranian
Perhaps one of the cutest of all dog breeds is the Pomeranian. They’re super fluffy and sweet. A lot of people don’t know that this particular dog is a descendant of Lapland and Icelandic sled dogs. As for their lifespan, 15 years is considered average.
5. Bichon Frise
This breed of dog also has a life expectancy of 15 years. Although they’re a small, hardy dog, they’re known for having skin allergies. So, to enjoy a long life with this pet, regular grooming and ear cleaning are essential to good, overall health.
6. Poodle
Next on the list is the Poodle. This particular breed is prone to health problems, including Cushing’s Disease and skin tumors. But as long as they receive regular checkups at the vet, the teacup and toy versions can live 15 to 16 years. On the other hand, the miniature and standard Poodle only live about 12 to 14 years.
7. Lhasa Apso
With long, flowing hair, this dog breed has a distinctive appearance. Since they were bred specifically to survive in the Himalayan mountains, they’re quite hardy. On average, the Lhasa Apso will live 16 years although the oldest on record didn’t die until the age of 29.
8. House cat
For obvious reasons, a kitty kept indoors will live longer than one that’s allowed to roam outside. If you keep at cat inside the house, you can expect it to live 17 years or more. But if you have one that wanders around outside, its life expectancy drops to only two to five years. The key to longevity is exercise and proper diet.
9. Snake
It’s a shame that so many people are afraid of snakes because they’re incredible creatures that make excellent pets. If you’re someone who appreciates snakes and wants one that lives on average 10 to 20 years, focus on the Burmese Python, Ball Python, King, or Corn variety. But they must have an environment that consists of the correct temperature, humidity level, heat, and a space to hide.
10. Cockatiel
Native to semi-arid regions of Australia, the Cockatiel is a fabulous bird. Keep in mind that this species, as well as others, needs the right-sized cage, room to fly for exercise, a proper diet, and plenty of mental stimulation. With all that, this bird can easily live to be 20 years old.
11. Macaw
This large bird has brilliantly-colored feathers of red, blue, green, orange, and black. Buying this species is a serious commitment since the Macaw can live 30 years or more. Often, they outlive their owners so it’s crucial to have a future plan in place.
12. African Grey Parrot
This parrot has the same life expectancy as the Macaw. Now, if you’re interested in a parrot that can talk, this is the species to go with. While other parrots have excellent verbal skills, none can outperform the African Grey. Again, socialization, exercise, and proper care are vital.
13. Cockatoo
While the name of this bird is similar to the Cockatiel, they’re very different birds. Of all the types of parrots, this one is probably the neediest. If they don’t get the attention they want, they’ll let their owners know by screaming. A lot of people who have a Cockatoo compare them to a small child throwing a temper tantrum. As for lifespan, they can easily live 30 to 50 years.
14. Koi
Although Koi originate from Japan, it’s become a popular pet throughout the world. On average, this fish lives between 15 and 40 years. But the oldest one in the world lived to be 228. For Koi, hibernation is important as it increases their lifespan. This fish is exceptionally beautiful thanks to its vibrant colors.
15. Turtle
Like lizards, the lifespan for turtles depends on the species. Regardless, as long as they have the right light and heat source, they can live for more than 40 years. While there are many wonderful options, two favorites include the Painted Turtle and Red-Eared Slider.
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Source: The Stacker, Catalogs
