At Paws in the City, we’re dedicated to the health, happiness, and safety of your furry friends. In a landmark move for pet welfare, the UK government has announced that cat microchipping is now compulsory. This step aligns the regulations for cats with those already in place for dogs, aiming to enhance pet safety and reunite lost pets with their owners more effectively.
What This Means for Cat Owners
Starting from June 10, 2024, cat owners are required by law to have their cats microchipped by the time they reach 20 weeks old. This regulation applies to all cats unless a veterinarian certifies that microchipping would significantly affect the cat’s health. Owners found not complying with this new rule could face a fine of up to £500. Once microchipped, cat owners must ensure their contact details are kept up to date on a microchip database.
The Benefits of Cat Microchipping
Microchipping offers several benefits:
· Increased Chances of Reunification: According to data from animal welfare organisations, microchipped pets are up to 20 times more likely to be reunited with their owners if they become lost. This statistic alone underscores the importance of having all cats microchipped.
· Deterrence of Theft: Pet theft has been a growing concern, particularly during the pandemic when demand for pets soared. A microchip serves as a proof of ownership, making it harder for thieves to sell stolen pets.
· Medical Information: Microchips can store important health information, ensuring any medical conditions or treatments are known if the cat is found away from home. This can be crucial in emergencies where immediate medical history is needed.
How Cat Microchipping Works
Microchipping is a simple and quick procedure. A veterinarian inserts a small chip, about the size of a grain of rice, under the cat’s skin between the shoulder blades. Each chip carries a unique identification number linked to a database containing the owner’s contact information. The procedure is minimally invasive and generally no more painful than a routine vaccination.
Ensuring Compliance
Cat owners should check with their local veterinary practice to ensure their pets are microchipped and that the microchip is registered with up-to-date contact information. If you’ve recently moved or changed your phone number, remember to update your details with the microchip database. This will help ensure you can be reached quickly if your cat is found.
The Process of Getting Your Cat Microchipped
- Consultation: Discuss with your veterinarian the best time to microchip your cat, especially if they are very young or have specific health conditions.
- Insertion: During a routine visit, the veterinarian will insert the microchip using a special needle. The process is quick, and most cats experience minimal discomfort.
- Registration: After insertion, ensure the microchip is registered with your contact information. We will do this for you at Paws in the City when we implant the microchip. This is a crucial step—an unregistered microchip is of no use if your pet goes missing.
- Update Information: Keep your contact details up-to-date in the microchip database. This includes updating addresses, phone numbers, and any other relevant information.
Common Questions About Cat Microchipping
- Q: Is microchipping safe for my cat? A: Yes, microchipping is a very safe procedure. It is minimally invasive and similar to a routine vaccination. Complications are extremely rare.
- Q: How much does it cost to microchip a cat? A: The cost of microchipping can vary, but it generally ranges from £10 to £30. Some animal charities and local councils may offer discounted microchipping services.
- Q: Will my cat need to be microchipped again? A: Microchips are designed to last for the lifetime of your pet. There is no need to replace them unless there is an issue with the chip itself, which is very uncommon.
What Happens If I Don’t Microchip My Cat?
By law, all cat owners must have their cats microchipped by the time they are 20 weeks old. If your cat isn’t microchipped by this age, you will be given a 21-day period to comply. Failing to microchip your cat within this timeframe can result in a fine of up to £500. Local authorities and the police are authorised to issue enforcement notices requiring compliance.
Beyond the legal requirements, not microchipping your cat significantly reduces the chances of being reunited if they go missing. Without a microchip, there is a greater risk that your cat may never return home.
Where Can I Get My Cat Microchipped?
At Paws in the City, we offer professional microchipping services to ensure your pets stay safe. Our vets and vet nurses are qualified to implant microchips and will assist in registering your pet’s information in a microchipping database, providing a smooth and pleasant experience for you and your cat.
To book an appointment or learn more, you can contact Paws in the City by calling 02045 199 857 or emailing:
- Greenford Quays: greenford@pawsinthecityx.com
- Dickens Yard, Ealing: ealing@pawsinthecityx.com
Support from Paws in the City
At Paws in the City, we fully support this initiative and believe it will greatly improve the welfare of cats across the UK. We offer comprehensive advice on microchipping and can ensure your cat is microchipped safely and effectively.
We encourage all cat owners to embrace this change, as it significantly contributes to the safety and well-being of our feline friends. By taking this step, we can ensure that our treasured pets are always just a scan away from being reunited with us, should they ever wander off.
Stay informed, stay compliant, and keep your furry friends safe!
For more information on microchipping and other pet care tips, visit our website at Paws in the City or read our blog about how we provide excellent care for your cats in our Silver Status Cat Friendly Clinic.
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Terms & Conditions:
- The cat must be in good health.
- For first-time visits to Paws in the City, your cat must undergo a general health check, which is charged at £45 in addition to the microchip fee.
- Offers are subject to availability and are valid while stocks last.