Australia-Very expensive pet food.

A NORLANE shoplifter claimed she stole meat to feed her family but could give no reason for stealing 96 cans of cat food, a court has heard.

Kylie Symonds, 37, of Cox Rd, Norlane, pleaded guilty in Geelong Magistrates’ Court yesterday to three counts of shop theft, the Geelong Advertiser reports.

Police prosecutor Senior Constable Aaron Riches said that in May last year, Symonds went to Safeway, Corio Village where she stole various meat packs by placing them in her shopping bag and walking through the express lane without paying.

She later told police she stole the meat to feed her family.

The prosecutor said that in September last year Symonds and a male co-offender were seen to enter and leave Coles Supermarket, Waurn Ponds three times without making any purchases, before being stopped by police a short time later.

"Inside the car police found 96 cans of cat food, marinated chicken and chicken fillets," he said.

"She could give no reason for stealing the cat food."

Symonds was convicted and placed on a 12-month Community Based Order with 50 hours of unpaid community work. She was also ordered to pay $100 compensation.