Many owners are reluctant to get their cats microchipped, whether that's because of the cost or because they're worried that it will cause their furry friends distress.
However, in reality, it's a quick and simple procedure that costs a very small fee.
In this guide, we're looking at how microchips work, the cost of them, the law, and why it's essential your kitty get's chipped.
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Key takeaways
How do pet microchips work?
How much does microchipping cost?
Why it's essential to get your pet microchipped
FAQs
Final thoughts
How do pet microchips work?
Microchips are tiny chips that are inserted just beneath your cat's skin. When they are scanned, they link to a profile on a huge database. This profile will have the following information:
Your contact number
Your address
Your email address
This means that your cat is linked to you as the owner.
Is it the law to get your cat microchipped?
In many countries, it is now illegal to have a cat that is not microchipped. This helps:
Keep your cat safe and accountable
Prevent kitties from being abandoned
Find lost cats
Reduce and prevent pet theft
Ensure you check your country's laws to avoid facing a fine. However, even if it isn't the law, we still advise getting your kitty chipped.
How much does microchipping cost?
Costs can vary around the world, but on average, you can expect to pay around $50 in America and around £20-30 in the UK. However, many insurance plans can help cover the cost of the process. Also, if you are adopting a cat, the shelter may offer to cover the cost of microchipping to encourage owners to keep their furry friends safe.
The process of microchipping
Even though the cost of microchipping is fairly low, many owners are still reluctant to do it. Sometimes, this comes from a place of not understanding the process and worrying that it is cruel to cats. So, let's break down what you can expect when you get a pet microchipped:
1.
The chip will be scanned in its packet in the veterinary clinic to double check it's linked to the correct information.
2.
It is then loaded into a syringe.
3.
Your cat, who is awake, will be held by the vet and put in place (usually lying on their bellies or standing up.)
4.
The loose skin between their shoulder blades will be lifted up.
5.
A needle will be inserted into the skin, and the chip will deployed.
6.
The needle will be withdrawn, and the process is finished.
It's an incredibly quick procedure and takes as long as any other injection, so just a minute or two. The microchip registry and paperwork may take some time, but this doesn't impact your cat! It's widely believed that your cat won't feel much pain or notice the injection. If they do, it's similar to the sensation of any other injection.
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Expert Tip: If you are still worried about your kitty, you can opt for your pet's microchip to be inserted when they are getting spayed or neutered so they are already under anesthetic.
Why it's essential to get your pet microchipped
All cat parents should get their pet microchipped. It's an important element of keeping your kitty safe wherever you may live.
Accountability
Unfortunately, a huge number of pets go missing every year. Cats are notoriously curious creatures who enjoy roaming around their territory. Even an indoor cat is likely to escape at some point, seeking adventure!
When this happens, the majority are found in animal shelters. This means microchipped cats will find their way back to their owners quickly after their owners are contacted. However, a lost cat with no chip may be put up for adoption. Even worse, if the shelter is overun or it lacks funding, they may be euthanized.
This is a worst-case scenario that's incredibly easy to avoid. A simple procedure will mean no matter where your lost pet ends up, their chip will be scanned and you will be contacted.
All cat parents should get their pet microchipped. It's an important element of keeping your kitty safe wherever you may live.
Safety
A microchipped pet is a lot safer than those that aren't accounted for. The registration of your pet means you are linked to them as an owner in a national database.
The more people who get their pet microchipped, the less pet theft that occurs. This is because thieves won't be able to sell your pet if it is microchipped, so there will be no financial incentive to do so.
Responsible pet parents
We all want to be the best pet parents possible. This simple procedure is an easy and quick way to be just that. Caring for your cat and prioritizing their wellbeing and safety means taking ownership of them. Without an official registration, you won't be able to protect them to the best of your ability.
We know our cats are independent, and with the assurance of a pet microchip you can let them live their best life exploring without constantly worrying about their safety.
FAQs
Can I get my cat microchipped for free?
It's unlikely you'll be able to get your cat microchipped for free. However, some insurance companies may cover some of the cost, or animal shelters may offer to chip a cat for free in order for you to adopt them.
What age should a cat be microchipped?
Cats should be microchipped before they reach 20 weeks of age. This will ensure they are safe and accounted for for their whole lives.
Is it law to microchip a cat?
In many countries it is now the law to microchip a cat. For example, the UK has just implemented a law that means all cats must be microchipped before they reach 20 weeks of age.
Do indoor cats need to be microchipped?
Yes, indoor cats should be microchipped. This will help you find them in case they escape.
Can I microchip my cat myself?
No, you cannot microchip a cat yourself. You should visit an animal shelter or your local veterinarian, and they will chip your cat for you.
Does a microchip prove ownership of a cat?
Yes, a microchip does prove ownership of a cat. The contact details used in the registry and database will be the details of the official owner.
Final thoughts
So, while it will cost you to microchip your cat, it's well worth it. Without a chip, you risk losing your cat and being unable to locate them again.
If you haven't already, book the procedure now! It's quick and easy and will keep your kitty safe, making you a responsible pet parent.
Written by
Lauren Jeffries
In this blog, I combine my two areas of expertise: pets and writing. I share my personal experiences alongside plenty of animal behavior research to help owners look after their pets. I have always lived with furry friends and am now a loving cat mum to two orange kitties.
