Why Microchipping Your Cat Is One of the Most Important Things You Can

As cat owners, we all like to think our feline friends would never stray far from home. However, even the most house-proud cat can occasionally slip out unnoticed, become disoriented, or find themselves unexpectedly trapped in a shed or garage. If the unthinkable happens and your cat goes missing, a microchip can make all the difference in helping them find their way back to you.

What Is a Microchip?

A microchip is a tiny electronic chip, approximately the size of a grain of rice, that is implanted just under your cat's skin. Each microchip contains a unique identification number that can be read using a special scanner.

The microchip itself does not contain your personal details. Instead, the unique identification number is linked to your contact information on a secure database. If your cat is found and taken to a veterinary practice, rescue centre, or animal welfare organisation, staff can scan the chip, retrieve the identification number, and access the database to contact you.

How Is a Microchip Implanted?

The microchip is usually placed between your cat's shoulder blades using a sterile needle. The procedure is quick, safe, and no more uncomfortable than a routine vaccination. In many cases, it can be carried out during another appointment, such as an annual health check or vaccination visit.

Once implanted, the microchip is designed to remain in place and function for your cat's lifetime.

Is Microchipping a Legal Requirement?

Yes. Since 10 June 2024, it has been a legal requirement in England for all cats over 20 weeks of age to be microchipped and registered on an approved database.

Owners who fail to comply may face a fine of up to £500. More information about the legislation can be found on the UK Government website.

Why Microchipping Matters

Collars and tags can be useful, but they can also become lost or removed. A microchip provides permanent identification that stays with your cat wherever they go.

Every year, thousands of lost cats are reunited with their owners thanks to microchips. Without one, it can be extremely difficult to prove ownership or trace a cat's home.

For indoor cats, microchipping is just as important. Cats can escape through open doors or windows, become frightened by loud noises, or travel unexpectedly when moving house.

Keeping Your Details Up to Date

Having a microchip is only effective if the information linked to it is accurate.

If you move house, change your phone number, or update your email address, make sure you also update your details on the microchip database. An out-of-date microchip record can significantly reduce the chances of being reunited with your cat.

What Should You Do If Your Cat Goes Missing?

If your cat disappears, try not to panic. Taking swift action can improve the chances of a happy reunion.

1. Search Your Home Thoroughly

Cats are experts at finding hiding places. Check:

• Under beds and furniture

• Inside wardrobes and cupboards

• Behind appliances

• In garages, sheds, and outbuildings

A frightened or stressed cat may stay hidden for longer than expected.

2. Contact Local Organisations

Notify:

• Your veterinary practice

• Local rescue centres

• Animal welfare charities

• The local animal warden

Make sure they have a recent description and photograph of your cat.

3. Ask Your Neighbours

Request that neighbours check:

• Sheds

• Garages

• Greenhouses

• Conservatories

• Outbuildings

Cats can accidentally become trapped when doors are closed behind them.

4. Spread the Word

Create posters with a clear photograph and your contact details. Display them in local shops, veterinary practices, community noticeboards, and other public locations.

Don't forget to post in local community and neighbourhood social media groups, where missing pet appeals can often reach a large audience very quickly.

Do Microchips Ever Stop Working?

Microchips are designed to last for your pet's lifetime and are highly reliable. However, in a very small number of cases, a chip can become more difficult to detect.

This may happen if the chip moves slightly from its original position or if there are changes in the tissue around it. As with any electronic device, there is also a very small possibility of technical failure.

For added peace of mind, we recommend asking your vet to scan your cat's microchip during routine health checks. This quick and simple check confirms that the chip can still be easily detected.

Thermochips: The Next Generation of Microchips

At Simply Cats, we offer implantation of Thermochips.

Thermochips work exactly like standard microchips, providing permanent identification and helping reunite lost pets with their owners. However, they also offer an additional benefit: when scanned with a compatible reader, they can provide your cat's body temperature.

This can be particularly useful during veterinary consultations, as it often removes the need for a traditional thermometer. By reducing handling and stress, Thermochips help make visits to the vet a more comfortable experience for many cats.

A Simple Step That Could Bring Your Cat Home

Microchipping is quick, safe, affordable, and legally required. Most importantly, it dramatically increases the likelihood of being reunited with your cat if they ever become lost.

If your cat is not yet microchipped, or if you're unsure whether their details are up to date, speak to our team at Simply Cats. We'd be happy to help ensure your feline friend has the best possible protection.