Authorities in Texas have arrested a woman on suspicion of murder after they say she fatally shot her husband in what she said was an argument over allegations of animal abuse.

According to the Fort Worth Star Telegram, 47-year-old Mary Harrison was still in custody as of Sunday in connection with the death of 49-year-old Dexter Harrison the previous morning.

Police arrived at the couple’s home on Fall Manor Drive in Dallas at around 7 a.m. Saturday.

The victim was reportedly transported to an area hospital where he died shortly after his arrival, as reported by KXAS.

Investigators spoke to Mary Harrison, who reportedly told them that she and her husband had been engaged in a heated argument prior to the shooting.

At least part of the acrimony was allegedly related to her claims that the deceased man had been abusing the family’s pet cat.

Local reporters spoke to neighbors who confirmed the cat had been reported missing.

They said the shooting suspect had been seen posting signs around the neighborhood in recent days in an effort to find the pet. The cat was reportedly returned a short time later.

Mary Harrison was taken into custody and transported to the Dallas Police headquarters. Police say she then waived her right to remain silent and answered investigators’ questions.

During that interrogation she allegedly confessed to shooting the victim.

The Dallas Morning News reported that the suspect remained in custody with bail set at $100,000.

[Featured image: Mary Harrison/Lew Sterrett Jail]