Life expectancy tables for cats from the city of Buenos Aires

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to develop the first life tables for the domestic feline population of the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires by constructing general cohort tables. To develop the life tables, data from felines received for final disposition at the Luis Pasteur Zoonosis Institute of the city from January 2018 to December 2021 were used. Of the 7945 cats that died in that period, the overall life expectancy at birth was 11.01 years (95% CI=10.55- 11.46 years). When life expectancy was analyzed according to sex, significant differences were found, being higher in females, 12.26 years (95% CI: 11.78- 12.73) than in males, 10.92 years (95% CI: 10.50- 11.35). According to neutered status, life expectancy at birth in the neutered, 13.19 years, was significantly higher than in the entire, 5.55 years (p-value=0.00001). Likewise, life expectancy among purebred cats was significantly higher, 14.81 years (95% CI: 14.51- 15.10), than for cross breed cats, 10.97 years (CI: 10.81- 11.13). Regarding the variations in mortality according to the warm or cold season of the year, no differences were observed between the two seasons. The most prevalent causes of death were related to urinary system failures and neoplasms, over 444 records analyzed. This study provides useful information for veterinary professionals and pet owners and is a valuable tool for the planning and development of effective health policies.