World's Oldest Cat Turns 31: Lives Like Royalty and Drinks Only Bottled Water

Millie, a tortoiseshell cat, has officially become the world's oldest living cat after celebrating her 31st birthday on August 12, 2026. Her owner, Leslie Greenhough, a 71-year-old, believes a unique dietary habit is the key to her remarkable longevity: Millie exclusively drinks bottled natural mineral water.

This unusual preference began accidentally when the family had to use bottled water due to plumbing work near their home. After becoming accustomed to it, Millie refused tap water, leading her owners to continue providing bottled natural mineral water. Her diet is also varied, consisting of salmon, shrimp, chicken, and tuna, supplemented with treats and couch cuddles.

Greenhough expressed immense pride in Millie's achievement, calling her a "true fighter." Millie joined the Greenhough family in 1995 as a three-month-old kitten, acquired by Greenhough's late wife. He now hopes Millie will receive official recognition, potentially a Guinness World Record, though he lacks the definitive documentation to prove her exact age, as the only witness, his late wife, passed away five years ago.

Greenhough also noted that Millie has become more cautious and withdrawn over time, which he speculates might contribute to her long life. Despite the lack of official records, Millie continues to live like royalty, enjoying her extended years with her devoted owner.

“

I am very proud that she has lived to be 31 years old. She is a true fighter.