How to Increase Your Cat’s Lifespan with Durum Wheat Germ
Did you know that the longest-living cat in the world lived for over 38 years in Texas? This means your kitty could keep you company for a long time, if luck is on their side and you take good care of their health.
A cat’s lifespan depends on many factors: from genetic predisposition to lifestyle, from diet to disease prevention.
The right diet, however, is considered the most important—just as it is for humans—because the right nutrients play a decisive role both in growth and in supporting the cat’s immune system at every stage of life.
How long does a cat live?
The average lifespan of a domestic cat is 12–15 years. But there are many well-cared-for cats that live beyond twenty years, and in some exceptional cases, over thirty.
How to extend your cat’s life?
The key factors for feline longevity are:
- Genetics and breed. Some breeds, like the Burmese or Birman, tend to live longer than others. In addition, certain breeds seem more prone to developing specific diseases. Feline heart disease, for example, affects Maine Coons, Ragdolls, and Persian cats more often. However, our daily choices can influence how these genes express themselves over the course of a cat’s life.
- Environment and lifestyle. Some owners let their cats roam the streets, exposing them to the risk of disease, fatal accidents, and poisoning. Others prefer to keep them indoors, safe from external dangers but properly stimulated with toys and suitable furniture. This second approach, of course, helps protect a cat’s health and extend its life.
- Cat nutrition. Providing the right nutrients, in line with their carnivorous nature, ensures feline well-being. In particular, you should choose only cat food with a high percentage of high-biological-value protein, gluten-free, made exclusively with natural ingredients, and free from artificial colorants or preservatives.
- Veterinary care and prevention. Properly administering vaccinations, giving regular parasite treatments, and taking your cat to the vet frequently for check-ups means many diseases can be completely avoided. And if a health issue is detected, you can act quickly.
Want to discover all the essential nutrients in your cat’s diet? Read our in-depth article.
The intestinal microbiota and your cat’s health
Your cat’s intestinal microbiota can make a difference in its life expectancy. This is an incredibly complex ecosystem made up of trillions of microorganisms that live in symbiosis with the host’s body. It not only aids feline digestion but also plays a fundamental role in numerous physiological processes.
For example, it naturally protects cats from viruses and disease: 70% of a cat’s immune system resides in the gut, and the intestinal microbiota is in constant communication with immune cells, helping the defense system recognize and fight pathogens.
The microbiota also contributes to nutrient metabolism and energy. Gut bacteria are involved in producing B vitamins and short-chain fatty acids, which provide energy and regulate the metabolic system. In addition, the microbiota keeps the gut healthy, protecting the intestinal barrier and preventing harmful substances from entering the bloodstream.
Products for cats with a healthy gut microbiota—and foods for cats with digestive issues—contain prebiotics. One of the most innovative, yet little-known, supplements in this regard is durum wheat germ.
Does your cat vomit or cough often? It might be hairballs—read our guide to managing them better.
The unique properties of durum wheat germ
Durum wheat germ is a natural ingredient and a valuable ally for your cat’s gut microbiota because it is packed with bioactive compounds. It contains:
- Selective prebiotic fibers that stimulate the growth of beneficial bacteria
- Natural antioxidants that protect intestinal cells from oxidative stress
- Vitamin E and essential fatty acids that support immune system health
- Bioavailable minerals that enhance nutrient absorption
Want to learn how to read cat food labels? Check out our guide.
Sterilight Valle Bruna: the best food for senior cats and beyond
If you want to extend your cat’s life, or you’re wondering where to buy cat food with durum wheat germ, we at Naxos Petfood have exactly what you need.
Sterilight Valle Bruna is a complete food for cats prone to being overweight due to hormonal changes caused by neutering.
It is a mix of high-quality animal protein sources (buffalo and lamb), exclusively made in Italy, enriched with vitamins, minerals, prebiotics, Omega-3 for a shiny and soft coat, L-carnitine to maintain muscle mass, and taurine for proper metabolic function.
Among the superfoods we’ve added to Sterilight Valle Bruna are:
- Artichoke, to support healthy liver function
- Pomegranate, for skin health
- Pumpkin, to regulate bowel movements and promote intestinal well-being
- Durum wheat germ, the elixir of long life
