Under normal conditions, a domestic cat can typically live up to approximately how many years when well cared for?

Introduction / Context:
Lifetime and longevity of common pets are favourite topics in general knowledge tests. Domestic cats are popular household animals worldwide, and their typical life span is often asked in quizzes. This question focuses on the approximate maximum life span a well cared for house cat can usually reach under favourable conditions.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• We are dealing with domestic cats living as pets.
• The question asks for a typical upper limit under normal circumstances, not record breaking extremes.
• The options are 12, 20, 35, 87, and 5 years.
• We assume reasonable veterinary care, nutrition, and a safe environment.

Concept / Approach:
Most domestic cats live around 12 to 15 years on average, but many well cared for cats can reach around 18 to 20 years. While rare individuals may live even longer, about 20 years is commonly given as a practical upper limit in general knowledge books. Therefore, among the options, 20 years best represents the typical maximum life span of a domestic cat in a home environment.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Consider average life span values for house cats, which are around 12 to 15 years.Step 2: Recognise that some cats, especially indoor cats, can live significantly longer, often reaching 18 to 20 years.Step 3: Compare the options: 12 years is close to an average but not the typical maximum; 20 years matches the common upper range.Step 4: 35 years and 87 years are unrealistic for cats and far exceed documented normal life spans.Step 5: 5 years is far below typical life span and represents premature death rather than normal longevity. Therefore, choose 20 years.

Verification / Alternative check:
Veterinary sources and pet care guides frequently mention that with good care, cats often live into their late teens and early twenties. Many general knowledge references summarise this by stating that a cat can live up to about 20 years. These independent references align with the answer 20 and rule out the other extreme options as unrealistic.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option A: 12 years is closer to an average figure rather than a typical maximum life span.Option C: 35 years is extremely rare and not considered a normal upper limit in standard references.Option D: 87 years is far beyond any recorded age for cats and is clearly incorrect.Option E: 5 years is below average life span and indicates early death, not a normal maximum.

Common Pitfalls:
Some learners confuse average life span with maximum life span, making 12 years seem correct. Others may not realise how long indoor cats can live when protected from accidents and diseases. To avoid confusion, remember that while many cats live 12 to 15 years, a well looked after domestic cat can often live up to around 20 years.

Final Answer:
The correct answer is 20.