Microchips and the responsible cat owner

About microchips

A microchip is a tiny device, about the size of a grain of rice, which encodes a unique number that links your pet to you.

The chip is implanted under the skin, between the shoulder blades. This process takes seconds and is no more painful than an injection.

The number on the chip can be read by a scanner, rather like a barcode reader. All vets, most animal rescue centres, most animal wardens and some police stations have scanners. If an animal is found to be microchipped, the person wielding the scanner can ring the central data base (usually Petlog), which holds your contact details.

F.A.Q.s:

Is microchipping safe?

Yes. `Millions of animals have carried their transponders [microchips] for most of a natural life time without any adverse effects. Conversely many thousands of implanted animals have been reunited with their owners after going missing by tracing the owner through a reliable database... the [Microchip] Committee is unanimously of the opinion that the benefits available to implanted animals far outweigh any possible risk to the health of the animal concerned.' From the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) website.

How much does it cost to have my cat microchipped?

Chipping typically costs about £25 when done by a vet. But some animal wardens, some branches of the RSPCA, and other certified individuals and organisations, may be able to chip your pet for as little as £10.

More information about microchipping cats can be found in the Pet Forums Encyclopedia.