Attention all cat owners in England! There’s a new law on the horizon – the cat microchipping law, and it’s all about keeping our beloved feline companions safe and sound. Starting from 10 June 2024, all cats must be microchipped by the time they reach 20 weeks of age. This new legislation is a game-changer for cat owners and aims to improve the chances of reuniting lost or stray cats with their humans, while also promoting responsible pet ownership.

Why Microchipping Matters

Now, you might be wondering, “What’s the big deal with microchipping my cat?” Well, imagine this scenario: your curious kitty decides to go on a solo adventure and gets lost. Without a microchip, the chances of them finding their way back to you are incredibly slim. In fact, statistics show that only about 2% of lost cats without microchips are reunited with their owners. But with a microchip? That number jumps to an impressive 38%!

What is a Microchip?

So, what exactly is a microchip? It’s a tiny device, about the size of a grain of rice, that is implanted under your cat’s skin, usually between their shoulder blades. This little chip contains a unique identification number that is linked to your contact details in a secure database. If your cat is found, a quick scan of the microchip will reveal the ID number, and the database can be checked to find your information, making it much easier to bring your furry friend back home where they belong.

Understanding the Law

Now, let’s find out about the specifics of this new law.

Deadline: If you don’t get your cat microchipped by the deadline of 10 June 2024, you’ll have 21 days to get it done.
Penalties: If you still don’t comply, you could be facing a hefty fine of up to £500.
Exceptions: If your cat is a free-roaming feline, such as a farm or feral cat, they are exempt from this law due to their lack of human interaction.

Benefits of Microchipping

But why should you bother getting your cat microchipped, even if they never venture outdoors? Well, microchipping offers a plethora of benefits beyond just increasing the chances of being reunited with a lost pet.

Permanent Identification: Unlike collars and tags that can fall off or be removed, microchips provide a permanent form of identification that cannot be lost or tampered with.
Theft Deterrent: Microchips act as a powerful deterrent to pet theft and help authorities trace stolen pets back to their rightful owners.

How to Get Your Cat Microchipped

So, how do you go about getting your cat microchipped? The process is quick, easy, and virtually painless for your feline friend. The microchip is inserted under the skin using a hypodermic needle, similar to a routine vaccination. The procedure can be performed by your vet, local council, or rehoming centre, and costs typically range from £10 to £30. Some animal charities may even offer microchipping at a reduced rate or for free, so it’s worth checking with your local organisations.

Keeping Your Cat’s Microchip Details Up to Date

If your cat is already microchipped, that’s great news! However, it’s crucial to remember to keep your contact details up to date in the microchipping database. If you move house or change your phone number, make sure to update your information as soon as possible. This ensures that if your cat ever does get lost, you can be contacted quickly and easily.

Other Ways to Keep Your Cat Safe

In addition to microchipping, there are other steps you can take to ensure your cat’s safety and wellbeing. Regular check-ups with your vet, a healthy diet, and plenty of exercise and playtime are all essential components of responsible pet ownership. By providing your cat with a loving home and taking proactive measures to keep them safe, you’re giving them the best possible chance at a happy and healthy life.

Take Action Today

I believe the new microchipping law for cats in England is a positive step towards improving animal welfare and promoting responsible pet ownership. By ensuring your cat is microchipped, you’re not only complying with the law but also significantly increasing the chances of a happy reunion should your feline friend ever decide to go on an unexpected adventure.

So, don’t wait until the last minute – book an appointment to get your cat microchipped today, and give them the gift of a lifetime of safety and security. For more information on the microchipping cats law and how to comply, visit the GOV.UK website or get in touch with Cats Protection.

Let’s work together to keep our furry friends safe and sound!