Is your cat microchipped?
If you are a cat owner in England, you will be legally required to ensure your cat is microchipped by Saturday 10 June 2024, if it is older than 20 weeks old, following the Government’s announcements on Monday 13 March 2023. Failure to comply may result in a fine of up to £500. If your cat is already microchipped, it is also part of the law that your details associated with the chip must be up to date.
Why should I microchip my cat?
Microchipping your cat is important because it increases the likelihood of being reunited with your cat if they are lost or stolen. Microchips are a safe and effective method of identification, which makes them more reliable than collars and ID tags that can come off or get lost. Additionally, microchipping does not put your cat at risk of injury or discomfort.
When should you have your cat microchipped?
It is recommended to have your cat microchipped before they go outside for the first time. There is no minimum age requirement for microchipping your cat, but many kittens are microchipped when spayed or neutered while under local anaesthetic. However, the new law requires cats to be microchipped before they are 20 weeks.
Is microchipping an intrusive procedure?
Microchipping your cat is a quick and painless procedure, no more painful than getting an injection. Your cat won’t need any recovery time and is unlikely to experience any discomfort or pain, as they may not even notice the microchip’s presence. The chip is no bigger than a grain of rice and is usually inserted under the skin between their shoulder blades, and you (or your cat) won’t notice it once it’s there.
The importance of microchipping your cat
Microchipping your cat is an important way to identify them and be reunited if you are ever separated. The microchip contains your details as an owner and is stored on a central pet database. While you may never need to use it, having a microchip can give you peace of mind in case of unexpected situations, such as:
Your cat is lost
It’s easily done – even the most careful owners are at risk of their cat running away.
It can be scary when a cat goes missing, but don’t worry! It will most likely be taken to a vet or rescue centre, where they will scan for a microchip and contact you if they find a match.
Your cat is stolen
Unfortunately some cats – particularly those of high value – are stolen to order and resold. Without a microchip, you wouldn’t be able to trace them. With a chip, your cat can be identified and brought back home.
Your cat is in an accident
Outdoor pets, especially cats, are prone to injury, whether fighting with another cat or being involved in an accident. Injured cats found by members of the public are usually taken to a local vet practice, which will treat the cat whilst also trying to track down the owner.
Are your cat’s details up to date?
Updating your contact details is crucial for being easily reachable in case your pet goes missing. Many cats end up not being reunited with their owners because their contact information isn’t up to date. It is now law that your contact details must be up to date.
If your cat is not microchipped yet, please call our client care team on 01252 721 191
For further information about the upcoming compulsory cat microchipping to help reunite lost and stray pets, visit the UK Government website.
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