It is indeed-most of my cats have lived to around 19-20, and a couple made 22. But they were either obviously recently lost pets like Yeti boy and/or just little kittens when they were rescued, like Titus and Midget girl.
Many strays rescued as adults off the street/road/forest have suffered permanent damage from injury or malnutrition, and will not live as long as their more fortunate fellow felines. Even knowing that, I always take the one who wants to come to me at the shelter, and ask about the history after it is a done deal...
That’s awfully old for a cat. My old tabby is nearing 13 and still hanging in there. He’s got some tumors of some type, but he’s not suffering.
i’m sad for you. losing pets is among the saddest things.