Microchipping Cats

As you might be aware, the compulsory microchipping of cats is now in force. All cat owners face a similar scenario as the dog owners:

All cats from the age of 20 weeks have to be microchipped and the details of animals and owner have to be stored in a central database. If a cat has been found out not to be microchipped, the owner has 21 days to rectify this, or can face a penalty fee of up to £500,-.

The microchip is a sterile device, that resembles a grain of rice and it's implantation under the skin is a simple process, not much more painful than a vaccination injection. The cost of microchipping your cat is £16.50 and this includes registering him or her on the database.

Cats are naturally curious animals and like wondering about. About a quarter of the over 10 million pet cats in the UK are still unchipped. Should a cat get lost or stolen, been handed in to vets after an accident or -worst case scenario- been found dead, a chip facilitates identification. All vets and animal charities have got chip readers and will be able to help.

Please be aware that once your cat is registered it will be your responsibility to ensure the database is updated should you move house, change your telephone number etc..

For up to date information you can refer to the government websites - Defra - Home - Animal Welfare.