** WARNING: The images in this story may be disturbing for some. **
MIRA MESA (NEWS 8) - Pet owners in the Mira Mesa area are being warned about coyotes after a resident had a horrific run in with one.
While it is not uncommon to see coyotes in Mira Mesa, Patrick Choothesa said it was shocking to witness the moment one attacked a small house cat Friday morning. Patrick was able to capture the vicious attack on his camera.
"It was like straight up Discovery Channel. Like National Geographic on a suburban street. It was crazy. I was sort of in disbelief because we have lived here for three years and (have) never seen a coyote."
Patrick said he was taking his daughter to school around 7 a.m., Friday, when he saw the coyote viciously chase and attack the house cat. "I looked down the street and saw he spotted a cat and the cat was trying to escape. [The cat] made a run for the tree, but the coyote was too quick," said Patrick.
Despite the coyote's quickness, Patrick was able to capture it all on his camera.
"It [the coyote] grabbed the cat by the neck and just clamped it down - restricted the airflow and it was pretty brutal," said Patrick.
As other drivers made their way along Pegasus Avenue and Capricorn Way, they honked their horns and made loud noises in an attempt to scare off the coyote.
The San Diego Humane Society said it constantly receives coyote calls. Only in an emergency, however, can a Humane Society officer come out and help.
"San Diego County is coyote territory. If you or your pet is in immediate danger of a coyote, please call our humane law enforcement officers. They will rush out there and do everything they possibly can to protect you and your pet," said Dariel Walker.
Patrick said he feels for the family who lost their house cat. "It's a family member. If they see those photos it is going to be heartbreaking."
If you need to report a case of animal cruelty or neglect, including animals left in hot cars, call the San Diego Humane Law Enforcement at: 619-299-7012.