Yes cats get stolen
people can bury their heads but fur and dog baiting are true realities even in the uk, i know the latter is active in my town
and in certain parts here theres even been remains left of peoples stolen bunnies and chickens.
It doesnt have to cost you loads and loads to cat proof, brackets and netting can be got hold of for a fair price, if you do a search there should be several threads showing pics and methods
If your a cul de sac off a B road then i wouldnt let her have free roam, main roads and country lanes are both as bad as each other imo, iv picked plenty of bodies off both
Shes a pretty girl who you cherish so i'd be keeping her in til the netting is up