Did you know that on 10th June 2024 it will become law for all owned cats in the UK to be microchipped? However many owners still don’t know this is happening.
In particular, kittens must be microchipped before they reach 20 weeks of age. Owners found to have not complied will be given just 21 days to get their cat microchipped or face a penalty fine of £500! It is hoped this new law, passed in March, will help reunite thousands of lost or stolen pet every year, as well as encourage responsible pet ownership.
Microchipping is a very simple procedure which involves inserting a small microchip under your cats skin between the shoulder blades, and this can be done by the vet or by a registered implanter. Once microchipped, the vet register you or direct you to where to register your details.
If your cat is found they can be scanned by a local vet, and the microchip number can be checked against the online database with your contact details. If you rehome your cat, it is the responsibility of the new owner to change the microchip details online.
The cost to get your pet microchipped can vary, however expect to spend between £20-£30 for the implantation (minus consultation fee) if you go through your normal veterinary surgery. There are currently cheaper – or free – microchipping days if you are struggling financially, which are being run by local charities such as the RSPCA.
Watch this space for news about microchipping events near you in the run up to June 10th, but in the meantime, we do have a Help with Vet Bills scheme which you can apply for if you think you may struggle to pay for the full vet fee.
We know that sometimes the hardest part of getting your pet microchipped isn’t actually the cost or the travel, but can actually be the process of getting your cat into a basket quickly and with little stress!
If you have already arranged for your cat to be microchipped but are worried about the process of getting them into a carrier, feel free to give us a ring Monday-Friday 9am-5pm for any advice or if you would like some assistance. For those of you who own more outdoorsy cats, we may also be able to lend out a cat trap!
Share this article with anyone you know that has a cat so they and be prepared ahead of the new legislation, and subscribe to keep up-to-date.
Email us for more information office@rspcasouthlondon.org.uk and happy microchipping!
RSPCA South London - For Every Kind Of Creature 
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