11 Jun Microchipping your cat
Did you know that from the 10th of June 2024, it is a legal requirement for all cats to be microchipped?
Microchipping you cat will help to ensure that, if they are lost, stolen or injured, you will have the best chance of being reunited as quickly as possible. Once the chip is inserted the owner can register their details and the process is complete. It’s important to keep these details up to date and a change in address or phone number should always be logged.
We’ve answered some of the top questions around this new law and what it means for you, and your cat.
Who can microchip your cat?
It’s important to make sure that a trained professional is microchipping your cat. You can ask at your vet practice, local council or rehoming centre and they will be able to advise. There is usually a relatively small fee for microchipping and please be aware that it is not covered under a 4Paws pet insurance policy.
Does it hurt?
The simple answer is, no. Microchipping doesn’t hurt and is a fairly quick and painless process. The microchip sits just under the skin, between the shoulder blades and the whole procedure is over in just a few short seconds. It’s also very uncommon for there to be a reaction to the microchip, although owners should be cautious of touching the area immediately after.
What are the benefits?
Microchipping your cat isn’t optional anymore and all cats are required, by law, to be microchipped. That being said, there are many benefits to microchipping as it speeds up the process of reuniting cats and their owners if the cats are stolen, lost or injured. Even indoor cats now have to be microchipped in case they escape.
How long do microchips last?
The microchips are built to last a lifetime and shouldn’t cause them any problems at all. There are some rare instances of the microchip falling out. If you find your cat’s microchip has come out then you can usually go back to whoever inserted it in the first place and they can make sure a new one is put in.
The 4Paws Team
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