Wild Cat 'Considered Dangerous' Shot Dead By Officers After It Attacked Pet Dog

A serval cat was shot dead by officers after it attacked a dog. The incident took place in Fairfield County, Ohio, on Sunday.

Fairfield County Sheriff's deputies responded to a home Sunday afternoon after getting a report that a large cat was attacking a dog. Upon arrival, the officers searched for the feline and found it in a wooded area. A deputy shot the cat after he felt that it was going to attack them when they approached it. Chief Deputy Alex Lape confirmed that the animal was a serval cat that was native to Africa.

“There is a large Serval cat, on the loose. It has attacked a dog. Please bring animals and children in doors. It has a black collar on. Most likely was a pet, but is now considered dangerous. If spotted do NOT approach. Call 740-652-7911. Our office and ODNR are on scene trying to locate,” the Fairfield County Sheriff's Office had written in a Facebook post before finding the animal.

Meanwhile, the residents of the area where the cat was found said they became concerned after spotting the animal lurking around in the neighborhood. Kim Oskin, a resident, said she received messages from other neighbors alerting her about the cat. She immediately rushed outside her house.

Jim Zuber, another resident, said he and his neighbor saw the animal roam in his front yard.

"We thought we were keeping an eye on it and the truth is it was more stalking us," Zuber said.

Meanwhile, Chief Deputy Lape said it was the owner's responsibility to take care of exotic animals and ensure that it doesn't escape.

"I don't know how long it had been out when it had last eaten, but over time they're going to resort back to their normal behaviors," Chief Deputy Lape said.