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Cats: a UK guide to care, health, law and costs
A UK guide to keeping cats: what they need, how long they live, health and cost, the law and what to do in an emergency.
This is general information for the UK. It is not veterinary or legal advice, and every animal is different. Speak to a vet about your pet's health, and check current rules on GOV.UK, or with your local authority. The Be Pet Wise app can also show rules for other countries.
At a glance
| Typical lifespan | About 12–18 years, often longer for indoor cats |
|---|---|
| Daily time | Play, feeding and company, less walking than a dog |
| Space | Works in flats if there is enough to do indoors |
| Best for | People who want an independent but affectionate companion |
Care and food
Cats are obligate carnivores, so feed a complete cat food suited to their life stage and keep fresh water available (many prefer moving water). Provide one litter tray per cat plus one extra, in quiet spots, scratching posts, high perches and hiding places, and daily play. Regular vaccinations, flea and worm treatment and dental care matter.
Character and suitability
Cats are independent but usually social, and each has a distinct personality. They dislike sudden change, so introduce new pets and moves slowly. Stress can show up as toileting problems, over-grooming or hiding. Some cats enjoy company and others prefer to be the only cat.
Health and lifespan
Common problems include dental disease, kidney disease in older cats, an overactive thyroid, diabetes, obesity and urinary problems. Neutering and vaccination are routine. Watch for changes in appetite, drinking, weight or toilet habits, which can be early signs of illness.
Allergies
Cat allergy is usually triggered by a protein (Fel d 1) in saliva and skin secretions, spread on fur and dander. No cat breed is truly hypoallergenic. Spend time with the individual cat before committing, and ask your GP for advice if you have asthma or allergies.
The law in the UK
Cat owners have a legal duty of care under animal welfare law. In England, cats over 20 weeks old must be microchipped and registered (compulsory since 10 June 2024); check the current rules in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Sale of kittens under six months old in England must come from the breeder or a rescue (Lucy's Law).
What it costs
Budget for food, litter, vaccinations and parasite treatment, neutering, insurance or savings for vet bills, dental care, boarding or a cat-sitter, and equipment. Long-haired breeds may need grooming. Older cats often need more veterinary care.
Emergencies: when to call a vet
Get veterinary help urgently for lily exposure (all parts of lilies, even pollen, are highly toxic to cats), paracetamol or dog flea treatments containing permethrin, antifreeze, a male cat straining to pass urine (a possible blockage), difficulty breathing, road accidents, seizures or collapse.
Adopting or buying
Cats' Protection and other rescues rehome many healthy cats and kittens, often microchipped, neutered and vaccinated. If you buy a kitten, see it with its mother in the home where it was born, and ask about health testing for the breed.
Popular cat breeds
- Maine Coon12–15 years
- British Shorthair12–17 years
- Siamese12–15 years (some live longer)
- Persian12–17 years
- Ragdoll12–15 years
- Bengal12–16 years
- Sphynx8–14 years
- Abyssinian9–15 years (often 12–15)
- Scottish Fold11–14 years
- Russian Blue15–20 years
- Birman12–16 years
- Burmese12–16 years
Frequently asked questions
How long do cats live?
Most cats live about 12 to 18 years, and indoor cats often live longer than cats that roam outdoors.
Do I have to microchip my cat?
In England, yes: cats over 20 weeks old must be microchipped and registered. Check the current rules in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Are any cats hypoallergenic?
No cat is truly hypoallergenic. Allergy is triggered by a protein in saliva and skin, so spend time with the individual cat before you commit.
Can cats be kept indoors?
Yes, if the home gives them enough space, play, scratching, climbing and litter facilities. Many indoor cats live happily, but they need daily mental and physical stimulation.
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Open Be Pet WiseBrowse all guidesReviewed 2026-09-20. General information for the UK, not veterinary or legal advice. See a vet for any health concern.