PET owners have been put on alert after fears that catnappers have stolen pedigree animals for breeding.

Two marble Bengals, worth about £500 each, have disappeared from homes in Weston in Southampton and Netley.

It comes after cat owners in nearby Sholing, Southampton, have endured months of heartache after ten animals disappeared.

Last month the Daily Echo revealed how police had arrested a suspect and searched his home before releasing him without charge.

Police have confirmed they are investigating the new disappearances but say they are not linking the cases at this stage.

The inquiry was sparked after Harrier Veterinary Surgery in Hamble Lane, Hamble, received reports of a missing male cat from The Crescent, Netley, and a female of the same breed was reported lost in Ashurst Close, Weston.

Practice manager Rebecca Feldman said: "These owners are very distressed and have been calling us in tears.

"These cats are worth a lot of money but you can't sell one on at full price without papers to prove its pedigree. It does look like they are being targeted for breeding but it won't work because most of them are neutered."

Cat lover Karen Devins, of Ashurst Close, Weston, is the owner of missing female Bengal, Kenco. She is now carefully guarding her remaining five felines.

Guilty' She said: "I thought Kenco may have found somewhere she is happier but this is terrible. It has been really sad. I'm going to have to keep my other cats indoors but I feel guilty as they love to go out and play."

Sgt Allan Dineley, of Southampton police, advised owners to safeguard their pets.

He said: "Any suspicious movement of animals should be reported to the police and registration numbers of any vehicles that may be connected noted.

"Pet owners are encouraged to secure pets and livestock as best they can and to have animals micro-chipped if possible."