The average lifespan of a wildcat is only around 5-6 years.

The story behind the answer

False. Wildcats (Felis silvestris group, including European/Scottish and African wildcats) typically live closer to 7–10 years in the wild, with many reaching 12–16 years in protected settings or captivity. So 5–6 years understates their usual lifespan.

Lifespan varies with risks like disease, road traffic, and conflict with humans; reduce those pressures and these small felids approach a decade or more—think “nine lives” as a handy memory hook. Domestic cats often outlive wildcats thanks to veterinary care, but among wild small cats, hitting around a decade is common, while larger cats (like lions) tend to have shorter wild lifespans due to the hazards of territorial conflicts and hunting demands.