Cat microchipping is now mandatory in England

Cat Microchipping - An important update!

What is a microchip?

A microchip is a very small device that is inserted under your cat’s skin. This can be read by a special scanner to reveal a series of numbers. These numbers are unique to your cat. Your contact details are then registered on a database alongside this unique number. This means if your cat goes missing, and they are scanned (as long as your contact details are up to date) you will be able to be reunited with your cat.

Current microchips are about the size of a grain of rice. Unfortunately, at the moment there are no microchips available that also allow GPS tracking.

How is my cat microchipped?

A microchip is injected under the skin using a needle. The procedure is very quick and most cats experience little to no discomfort. The procedure can be done during a consultation or when your pet is being sedated or anaesthetised for another reason (i.e when they are neutered).

Once the microchip has been implanted cats do not feel the chip or experience any discomfort from it. They are designed to stay in place for the life of your cat.

How do I register my cat’s microchip?

Usually the person that implants the microchip (i.e your vet practice) will register the microchip for you. We normally register an owner’s name, address, telephone number and email address with each chip.

If you ever move house or change your telephone number you will have to contact the microchip company directly to change these details with them.

It is vital that you keep your cat’s microchip details up to date as this is the best chance of them being reunited with you should they go missing.

Do I have to microchip my cat?

In March 2023 it became a legal requirement to microchip all cats over the age of 20 weeks! Cat owners have until 10th June 2024 to ensure their cat has been microchipped. After this date if owners are found to not have their cat microchipped, they will be given 21 days to have one implanted, or face a fine of up to £500.

If you are not sure if your cat is microchipped, or if you would like to have a microchip implanted, please feel free to contact us and we will be happy to help you!