Cats love to roam and explore. It’s in their nature. So, no matter how hard you try, there will always be the risk that they may struggle to find their way home.
This is one of the reasons why cat microchipping is to be made mandatory in England from 10th June 2024. The chip will need to be implanted before the cat reaches 20 weeks old, with the owners details stored in a database that must be kept up to date.
Why has this new law been passed?
Here at St Kitts, we see countless numbers of cats brought in through our doors every year, with many unchipped, which makes it incredibly difficult to get them back home.
The new law will go towards making huge strides in improving animal welfare, and will help to reunite much-loved family cats with their rightful owners. It will also protect them from the unfortunate risk of theft.
How does microchipping work?
Microchipping is a quick procedure that causes minimal discomfort. It’s quite similar to your cat receiving their usual vaccinations.
It involves inserting a microchip, about the size of a grain of rice, under the skin between your cat’s shoulder blades. Once in place, they won’t feel it, and it won’t need to be replaced.
The microchip has a unique serial number that you need to register, along with your details, on the pet microchipping database. When a cat is found, the microchip can be read with a scanner and the registered keeper will be identified, so you can be quickly reunited with your pet.
If you move home or your contact details change, it’s important that your cat’s microchip is updated. To do this, you simply need to contact the database where your pet is registered to make any necessary changes. This can usually be done online or over the phone.
If you’re unsure which database your pet is registered with, bring them in to your local practice and our team will be able to scan them to get the details for you.
Penalties
Owners who are found not to have microchipped their cat by 10th June 2024 will have 21 days to have one implanted, or may face a fine of up to £500.
Exemptions
Microchipping is not compulsory for free living cats that live with little or no human interaction or dependency, such as farm, feral or community cats.
Microchipping is FREE for Pet Healthcare Plan members!
Our Pet Healthcare Plans are designed to save you money by spreading the cost of routine and preventative treatments with low monthly payments. This includes a FREE microchip (if required), as well as lots of other benefits, including:
- Annual vaccinations
- Flea, tick* and worming products delivered to your door
- Nail trims
- Bi-annual health checks
And much more!
*Tick control included with Plus Plans only.
If you would like more specific advice about microchipping your cat, contact your local St Kitts practice:
St Kitts Vets Hartley Wintney: 01252 844044
St Kitts Vets Basingstoke: 01256 844944
Crookham Park Veterinary Centre: 01252 913990
Firgrove Veterinary Centre: 01252 877799
