I was wondering if domestic dogs and cats are enjoying longer lifespans nowadays. It seems that more people are living longer; is the same true for our beloved critters?
Dogs are living about a year longer due to better care.
I have only my own experience to draw on. I had a Rat Terrier who lived 20+ years. Her last year she was mostly blind, mostly deaf but a happy dog. She knew her favorite spots inside and out (my flower bed). She knew her favorite person and did her potty outside w/o fail. Died in her sleep one morning. Sad, but the best way for a beloved being to go. I can only hope my death will be as pleasant.
I have 8yo Yorkie and a 10yo Beagle right now. Both in good health. Beagle Betsy’s too fat. (We’re on a diet;)).
My understanding is that small breeds live longer. Good Vet care and no free roaming also contribute to longevity.
Domestic pets are living longer. Like Beckdawrek said, it’s mainly due to better vet care, adequate feed, and safe spaces (no free roaming). This has been somewhat counteracted by selective breeding for specialized traits, that has left many breeds with chronic, genetic susceptibilities for certain diseases or injuries. For example, hip dysplasia in german shepherds, irish setters & Labrador retrievers, breathing insufficiencies in pugs (and persian cats), deafness in dalmatians, diabetes in burmese cats, etc.
Other domesticated animals (food ones, not pets) are living shorter lives. Cattle, pigs, turkeys, chickens – all have been bred to grow faster (to reach slaughter weight) or to produce more (milk, eggs) in a faster period of time. As soon as they reach that point, they are butchered. In modern domesticated animals, this is much earlier than previously, in natural settings.