Safe, Affordable & Fully Compliant Cat Microchipping
At present microchipping is part of responsible cat ownership. Regardless of your cat's age, this can give you the peace of mind if your cat was ever lost and ensure you're meeting the new regulations.
Here at Local Vets, we can carry out quick, safe and affordable cat microchipping performed by our caring, professional veterinary team who always ensure your pet is comfortable throughout.
What Is Cat Microchipping and Why Does It Matter?
This is a relatively easy and simple process that embeds a small electronic chip under the skin. The chip is programmed with an identification number that connects you to the relevant contact information in a central and secure database.
The main difference between a chip and a collar or tag is that microchips are permanent. They cannot be removed or lost, and if your cat is ever strayed, injured or stolen, an examination by a vet and scan of the chip will confirm you are the owner.
The sense of security that there is always a back-up in place should the worst ever happen will be far greater than a dog collar and ID tag.
Is Cat Microchipping Now a Legal Requirement?
Microchipping cats has become compulsory in England from June 2024, and cats are to be microchipped before they are 20 weeks old, and owners must ensure that their contact details remain up to date.
This rule applies to all cats, and this includes house cats. Even house cats can run off unexpectedly, which is one of the primary reasons for the implementation of the law. If you fail to microchip your cat and keep your contact details updated, you risk receiving a fine.
By booking your appointment with your local vet you will remain compliant with the new law and keep your cat safe at the same time.
What Happens During a Cat Microchipping Appointment?
Most pet owners are amazed at how easy and quick the procedure is. Microchipping is just like having an injection and the procedure takes less than a minute to do.
The microchip is implanted just under the skin, between the shoulder blades of your cat. Anaesthetic is not required and most cats barely notice. Once inserted it is scanned to make sure that it works, and your details are then logged on a national database.
Your cat will then be identifiable for life.
When Should You Microchip a Cat?
Most kittens are microchipped between 8-12 weeks, but the legislation requires the microchip to be done by the time the cat is under 20 weeks old. For convenience and to reduce unnecessary stress to your cat, many people get the chip put in when the kitten is at his or her vaccinations.
It is never too late to microchip an older cat that has not yet been chipped, any cat will respond well to the procedure.
How Much Does Cat Microchipping Cost?
The cost of microchipping your cat is not very high at all in the UK, especially if you consider the positive reasons, you must microchip your cat. Generally, the prices from veterinary practices range from 10 to 30 and this price will depend on the area in the UK where your veterinary practice is located and if registration is included.
At Local Vets we aim to keep the microchipping of cats at a reasonable cost, without complicated arrangements. We take care to keep the process straightforward with fair prices and we register your cat’s microchip, so you are not left wondering.
What Happens After Your Cat Is Microchipped?
After your cat has been microchipped the information for the vet or shelter in your database will be connected to the number in your microchip. When someone finds your cat and take them to the vet/rescue centre, they will be able to scan the chip and phone you up straight away!
The microchip will not be keeping the information itself, just having the information in your data base as an account to be looked up, so you should keep the information in the database current (like if you move house or if your phone number changes you must tell your microchip company).
Why Microchipping Is So Important for Cats
Cats are naturally inquisitive animals, independent by nature and although the most well cared for pet can roam further than the owner anticipates. In some situations, cats might also be taken in by others assuming the animal is a stray.
Microchipping puts an end to the doubt; it provides indisputable, identifiable proof of ownership and provides a much higher probability that a lost cat will be returned safely to the owner. To the owner, microchipping represents one of the simplest but worthwhile protection strategies available for the lifetime of their animal.
Why Choose Local Vets for Cat Microchipping?
Here at Local Vets, we appreciate that some procedures might seem daunting if you don't know what will happen. That is why our vets aim to make everything a calm and simple process; both for you and your cat.
Our appointments can be made very fast and will always consist of the most careful handling, along with thorough explanation. We also make sure your microchip is registered and up to date.