PALM CITY, Fla. -- Authorities in Martin County are warning residents of a roaming exotic cat, saying no one should try to capture the escaped pet.

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officers are investigating the disappearance of the Siberian lynx, which disappeared from its owner's home in Palm City over the weekend.

Tina Love, the cat's owner, said she last saw "Simba" early Saturday morning after moving the animal from its outside cage to an enclosed porch, according to wildlife officials.

Love said she noticed Simba was missing after Love awakened, according to wildlife officials. There was a break in the screen of the cage, possibly providing Simba's escape route, wildlife officials said. Love told authorities that she thinks Simba may have been stolen.

Simba has been declawed and weighs about 50 pounds. The cat was wearing a red collar with crystals.

The public is urged to call the FWC's Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC and not to attempt to capture the animal.

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