Escaped Serval Cat Returns Home Safely in Plymouth After Suspected Break-In

A wild African serval cat that was reported missing in Plymouth, Devon, has returned safely to its enclosure after escaping during a suspected break-in at its owner's property.

The serval, which is the only exotic wild animal officially licensed to be kept in the city of Plymouth under the Dangerous Wild Animals Act, managed to escape on April 16, 2025. Sightings of the large, spotted wild cat near the A38 trunk road sparked concern among local residents and led to multiple reports being filed with Plymouth City Council and Devon and Cornwall Police.

Due to the unique nature of the animal, authorities were quickly able to identify its registered owner. Fortunately, the council confirmed that the cat returned to its home enclosure on its own accord. A spokesperson described the animal as appearing "a bit nervous" but otherwise unharmed by its brief venture into the Devon countryside.

Plymouth City Council has announced it will carry out a thorough inspection of the property to ensure all safety, security, and licensing standards are being fully met to prevent any future escapes. A police investigation into the suspected break-in that allowed the animal to escape remains ongoing, with officers calling for anyone with information about suspicious activity in the area to come forward.