Cats
Man has raised 23-year-old cat since he was 11 years old
They're the two best friends that anyone could ever have.
D.G. Sciortino
05.12.22

Reece Alexander-Putinas’ cat, Queen Lily, has lived through four decades.

She’s been around since 1999, and he’s had her since he was 11 years old.

The 23-year-old cat is the absolute love of his life. And everyone else is entirely astounded by Lily’s ripe old age.

“Every time I have people over, they’re absolutely shocked. They cannot believe she’s about to celebrate her 23rd birthday. It’s a very rare thing. There are not many cats that reach the age of 23,” Alexander-Putinas, who is an actor and life coach, explains.

PetMD reports that the average life expectancy for a house cat is 10 to 15 years, though Blue Cross says they can live up to 20 years.

Guinness World Records lists a tabby mix named Creme Puff as the oldest cat to ever live at 38 years and 3 days.

“I suppose the love and bond we share just keeps her going,” Alexander-Putinas says.

Lily is just as obsessed with her dad as he is with her.

She’s always happy to see him.

“She will always find a way to find me. When I was in my parent’s house, my dad didn’t particularly like the cats going upstairs, because of the hair,” Alexander-Putinas explained.

“She went up the roof of the house and she climbed through the window to get into the bedroom because she wanted to be with me. So, she always finds a way. No matter how much my dad tried to keep her out!”

Alexander-Putinas says he’s very grateful to have had Lily to lean on during the tough times throughout his life.

“She’s been through so much with me. She’s been through my high school, secondary school, girlfriends, my first heartbreak, just so much in 23 years. And although she’s not human, I do tell her about my day and she does seem to know when I’m sad. She seems to really come over to me more frequently.

Lily’s dad says that she’s become more affectionate as she’s aged, as well as become more vocal.

YouTube Screenshot
Source:
YouTube Screenshot

He calls her “the ultimate companion” that often follows her around the house.

Alexander-Putinas says that he can’t wait to come home to Lily when he’s on set for the day. When Lily isn’t following her dad around, she’s nibbling on some house plants. She absolutely loves houseplants.

YouTube Screenshot
Source:
YouTube Screenshot

To the point where her dad has to trim them, so she doesn’t eat them up.

Even though Lily is aging, she’s still quite the curious cat and in good health.

“When I look at her I just feel such warmth inside. The older the pets get, they require a lot more care and attention, but I love it. She’s sort of looking at me like, ‘I know that you are giving me the best life you can to me.’ It’s a blessing and I enjoy giving her extra care,” Alexander-Putinas said.

Alexander-Putinas is well aware that Lily won’t be around forever. That’s why he spends his time focusing on the time that they do have together.

Learn more about these two besties in the video below.

Please SHARE this with your friends and family.

Article Sources:
To learn more read our Editorial Standards.
Advertisement