WYLIE -- Collin County is asking for the public's help in finding a serval, an African cat that looks similar to a cheetah, that got out of its house on Tuesday.
The county said the cat isn't considered dangerous, but by nature it is a wild animal and may act aggressively if it feels threatend.
"He has been through obedience training," said Pam Lovelace, the cat's owner. "He's very trained. But once something like this happens, instinct is going to take over, so he's going to do what he wants to do."
Until now, it has been a house cat.
Lovelace shared photos of her pet playfully relaxing with other animals.
The 6 1/2-year-old cat named Jasa sneaked out of the house Tuesday near Parker Road and Southview in Wylie.
Lovelace has spent day and night looking for him ever since.
Collin County even set three traps loaded with chicken gizzards, hearts and turkey legs, hoping to catch him.
The cat is declawed and Lovelace said it would likely run away if approached.
Plus, Jasa suffers from a heart condition, which Lovelace said, means the cat often gets tired.
Still, it's 40 pounds -- the size of a Springer Spaniel dog -- and that appearance makes Lovelace worry what might happen.
"I don't want to see him shot," Lovelace said, exhausted with worry. "He's wearing a red harness and a collar. He's microchipped and tagged."
In the wild, servals reportedly eat rodents, frogs and other small prey.
Pictures prove Jasa is socialized with other pets.
Lovelace said she maintains licenses for her exotic pet and abides by government regulations.
Collin County confirms it and said she passed her most recent inspection in August.
Anyone who sees the cat is asked to call 911.
