POWELL, Ohio (WCMH) — A sassy cat known for his little, fluffy body who was the father of five kittens at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium has died. 

Moose, a Pallas’ cat, “left an indelible mark on our hearts,” the zoo wrote on social media on Thursday. 

The zoo called the cat’s passing “unexpected” due to him being just five years old; a cause of death will be determined after a necropsy is performed. 

According to the zoo, when they were first discovered, Pallas’ cats were mistaken for the ancestors of domestic cats due to the animal’s size and appearance. Pallas’ cats are about the size of their domestic relative, but look larger due to their thick coats, which provide insulation in their cold, wintery habitat. In addition to its thick fur, the animal is known for its flat head, short ears, and yellow eyes. 

Moose was known for his confidence and sass and was the “most extroverted of his kind to ever call the Columbus Zoo home,” the zoo wrote.  

Moose fathered five Pallas’ kittens – three in 2022 and two – Goose and Meera – this past summer. The zoo said the kittens carry their father’s unique traits. 

“Pallas’ cats are elusive in the wild and face challenges due to habitat loss and climate change,” the zoo wrote. “Moose served as an ambassador for his species, inspiring countless visitors to care about these incredible cats.” 

Visitors are invited to pay tribute to Moose by visiting the Pallas’ cat habitat in the Asia Quest region of the zoo and visit Tiina, Goose and Meera.