10 Pets That Outlive Their Owners

Most pet lovers assume they’ll outlive their animals, but that’s not always the case. Some pets have incredibly long lifespans—so long, in fact, that they often need to be passed down to the next generation of caretakers.

From colorful birds to slow-moving reptiles, a surprising number of pets can live for decades, sometimes even over a century. If you’re looking for a companion with serious longevity, these pets will stick around for the long haul.

African Grey Parrot

These brainy birds are famous for their speaking abilities and can live up to 70 years. With consistent care and social interaction, they often become family fixtures, outliving multiple owners across generations.

Sulcata Tortoise

Known for their impressive size and calm demeanor, Sulcata tortoises can live more than 70 years. They’re often gifted to younger family members, becoming a living legacy that walks slowly but lasts forever.

Koi Fish

Koi are peaceful, ornamental fish with astonishing lifespans that can stretch past 50 years. In some cases, especially in Japanese culture, they’ve been recorded to live over 200 years with optimal conditions.

Macaw

These vibrant, intelligent birds are both beautiful and long-lived, reaching ages of 80 years or more. They need lots of attention and stimulation, making them a life partner in every sense of the word.

Box Turtle

With a lifespan ranging from 40 to 60 years, box turtles are quiet yet enduring pets. Their slow and steady lifestyle suits patient owners, but their longevity means you’ll need to plan for the future.

Amazon Parrot

Amazon parrots are social, talkative, and thrive with human interaction. These green-feathered companions often live 60 to 70 years, making them lifelong confidants—if not longer.

Cockatoo

Full of personality and affection, cockatoos can live up to 70 years. Their emotional depth means they bond deeply, but they also suffer if neglected or rehomed, so lifelong commitment is key.

Goldfish

Often mistakenly thought to live only a few years, goldfish can thrive for 20 to 40 years with the right care. Proper tanks, clean water, and quality food are essential for their impressive longevity.

Red-Eared Slider Turtle

These common turtles often outlast their novelty, living up to 40 years or more. Many are bought during childhood and still swimming strong when their owners head off to college—or beyond.

Hyacinth Macaw

This majestic blue parrot is not only the largest of its kind but also among the longest-lived. With a lifespan reaching 60 years or more, this bold bird will be with your family for a lifetime.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a pet that becomes part of your legacy, these long-living companions are more than up to the task. Just make sure you’re ready—not just for a pet, but for a lifelong commitment.