Do you legally have to microchip your cat?

Although microchipping is a legal requirement for dogs, it is not currently required for cats unless they are travelling under the Pet Travel Scheme. Microchipping is a safe and permanent way to give a lost cat the best chance of being returned to their home.

Are microchips compulsory?

It is already the law for all dogs to have one and has been since April 2016 – around nine million dogs have been microchipped. Cats Protection, as the leading cat charity, has campaigned for many years for microchipping to be made compulsory for owned cats, giving them the same protection as dogs if they get lost.

Can pet microchips be tracked?

Pet microchips are not tracking devices. They are radio-frequency identification (RFID) implants that provide permanent ID for your pet. Because they use RFID technology, microchips do not require a power source like a GPS. The microchip will last your pet’s lifetime.

How much does a microchip cost?

A: The average cost to have a microchip implanted by a veterinarian is around $45, which is a one–time fee and often includes registration in a pet recovery database. If your pet was adopted from a shelter or purchased from a breeder, your pet may already have a microchip.

What age can a cat be microchipped?

10-12 weeks
From 10-12 weeks onwards Depending on their breed and size, most cats can be microchipped from the age of 10-12 weeks onwards. You may find that a cat you adopt from an animal shelter is already microchipped, and some breeders also arrange cat microchipping as part of their service to new owners.

Is it painful to microchip a cat?

Will The Microchip Implant Hurt My Cat? Microchipping cats hurts about as much as having blood drawn. The microchip comes preloaded in a sterile applicator and is injected under the loose skin between the shoulder blades. The needle is required for the injection causes a pinch during cat microchipping procedures.