PET detectives have been hired at a cost of £1,100 to help a couple find their cat.

Dave and Liz Collins, of William Harris Way, Colchester, have called on Animal Search UK to track down seven-year-old Shiloh.

Mr Collins said it will be worth every penny if they find her.

He said: “We have had her since November. She is an ex-breeding cat and has never gone missing before.

“My wife is not going to work because of it.

“Shiloh is part of the family, so when I searched Google and found Animal Search, then I asked for help.

“I am willing to pay the price to get her back.”

Shiloh went missing on Saturday.

After initial attempts to find her failed, Mr Collins called in the team, led by former West Midlands police officer TomWatkins.

He arrived with walkie-talkies, rescue traps, torches and patrol vehicles.

They have even researched Shiloh’s routine and movement patterns.

Mr Watkins, who has 18 years investigation experience, said: “Most missing pets are found within a mile of home.

“The challenge faced by owners is making sure as many people as possible know their pet has gone missing and encouraging them to be vigilant in keeping an eye out for them.

“Unfortunately, work and family commitments often mean owners don’t have as much time as they’d like to devote to scouring the area looking for their missing pet, and this is one of the ways we can help.”

Shiloh has a cream and brown coat, with darker brown markings and blue eyes.

Mr Watkins said: “We’ve made sure we have as much background as possible before we commence our search.

“We’ve checked details about Shiloh’s normal routine, and her usual movements in the area.”

The investigators have told the owners not to reveal how much they paid for the cat.

Anyone who sees Shiloh can call Animal Search UK on 0800 4320340 or email info@ animalsearchuk.co.uk quoting reference 185889, or visit animalsearchuk.co.uk and look for pet refereence ALP185889.