PATERSON -- Cats are a common sight in the city, but a feline seen roaming loose Thursday was not your run-of-the-mill stray.
Witnesses called police after spotting a large Savannah cat, an exotic breed that is a cross between a domestic cat and an African cat known as a serval, News 12 New Jersey reported. The rare, difficult-to-breed animals can cost up to $20,000.
Animal control officers found the cat on Mill Street and tranquilized it, handing it over to Wildlife Freedom in Wanaque. The cat, believed to be someone's pet, was reportedly in good health.
Savannah cats can leap up to seven feet and can weigh up to 30 lbs., according to Animal Planet. The breed, first created in 1986, is also banned in some states.
Paul Milo may be reached at pmilo@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter@PaulMilo2. Find NJ.com on Facebook.