Everyone aspires to have their best furry companion at their side at all times. Michele Foster is a very fortunate lady.
In May 1988, she received Rubble, a cat from Exeter, England, who is currently 31 years old, as a gift for her 20th birthday.
“I got him just before my 20th birthday,” says Michele. I had recently moved out, and he was a part of a litter cat that belonged to my sister’s friend. I brought him in as a kitten because I was lonely living alone. It happened in May of 1988.
As of November of this year, this stunning Maine Coon-type cat is officially the oldest living cat in the world, having achieved the age of 31 in May.
The two have remained inseparable friends over the years. He is incredibly devoted and loyal, but he has become a little grouchy in his old age, according to Michele.
She thinks a lot of love and attention has contributed to his lifespan.
Rubble’s health has been comparatively good on his own, however he does currently have high blood pressure.”Rubble is probably the oldest cat in the UK and is still going strong,” says Dr. Shawn Moore of City Vets, who takes good care of his health. Aside from taking medicine to control his blood pressure, he is in exceptionally good health.
The Guinness Book of World Records has not yet verified his formal title as the world’s oldest cat. “I don’t think we will go down the Guinness World Record route because I’m not sure he would like a lot of people coming to see him or a fuss being made out of him,” Michele continues, adding that “he has plenty of life left in him yet.”
Since he is now elderly, he would like not to be bothered or get excessive attention. We would rather that he simply be allowed to age in peace.
House cats often live 15 to 20 years, but outdoor cats typically only survive 2 to 9 years. Happy 31st birthday, my dear animal companion!