If you have kept up to date with our recent blogs, you will know that the microchipping law for cats is changing on the 10th of June 2024. However, it is still estimated that 67% of people still do not know about the legislation*. So for those of you who may not know, the new law means that you will have a year to get any domestic cats in your household microchipped.
Though there has been much focus recently on the mandatory aspect of the new law, there are many benefits to getting your cat microchipped:
1. Helps reunite lost and stolen cats with their keepers
We never like to think about our beloved pets going missing, but the main goal of a microchip is to give that extra bit of security should it ever happen. A microchip gives your cat a unique 15-digit number which is linked to your details, making sure you can be contacted if they ever wander too far.
2. Permanent identification
Unlike cat collars and tags, which can fall off or be removed, a microchip is a permanent form of identification for your cat that cannot be lost or damaged.
3. Gives peace of mind
Many cats are free to wander outside, this can lead to anxiety over whether they could get into fights with other animals or otherwise injured. A microchip ensures that you can be contacted should your cat ever get hurt and taken to a vet.
4. Quick and painless
Microchipping is a quick and simple procedure that can be done by a vet or trained professional. It is no more invasive than a vaccination and can be done alongside other vet treatment. See our ‘How to get your cat microchipped’ blog for more information.
5. Protects your data
Compared to putting your phone number and address on a pet collar, microchipping allows you to keep your personal information safe and secure on a database.
6. Registration is easy
Occasionally the registration of your cat's microchip will be done by a vet, but even if you have to do it yourself, the process is nice and easy and you can check the database that your cat's microchip is held with here. If you have an identibase microchip then you can create an account and register in four simple steps:
- Provide us with your details
- Tell us about your cat
- Choose a membership level
- Claim 4 weeks free pet insurance
Easy! Overall, there are many great benefits to getting your cat microchipped and so even though it is something that is becoming mandatory you can rest assured that it is a good choice for protecting your cat.