Pet owners across England are facing a looming deadline of June 10 to ensure their cats are microchipped, with the consequence of a £500 fine for non-compliance. The extension of mandatory microchipping, already a legal obligation for dogs, aims to enhance responsible pet ownership and facilitate the swift reunification of lost pets with their owners.
Microchipping services for cats are readily available at veterinary clinics, rescue centers, and select pet stores, providing a convenient and accessible means of compliance. Sammie Hunt, owner of a pet shop in Plympton, emphasized the minimal stress the procedure poses to felines, underscoring its significance in safeguarding beloved pets.
“It’s just devastating to lose a pet, but if we have that connection with the chip, it’s a way for you to get your pet back and it’s also on the database across the country,” said Hunt, who offers the service at Redpaw Pet Supplies.
The microchipping process involves the insertion of a small chip between the cat‘s shoulder blades, a procedure described by Hunt as “very unstressful for the animal.”
According to a 2024 report by the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA), approximately two million cats in England remain unchipped. Lynne James, a veterinarian with PDSA, emphasized the relief microchips provide in reuniting lost cats with their owners, highlighting the enforcement of regulations by local authorities akin to those for dog microchipping.
While acknowledging associated costs may deter some owners, James stressed that microchipping is not prohibitively expensive, typically ranging from £10 to £30. She also pointed out various schemes offered by charities that provide free microchipping services, emphasizing the importance of ensuring registered addresses are up to date.
“Under the law, housecats that don’t leave the house should also be microchipped,” James reiterated, urging owners to prioritize this aspect of responsible pet ownership. “It’s so easy for a cat just to slip out, and they’re much more likely to get lost.” She emphasized the importance of updating addresses, particularly after relocating, to ensure swift reunification in the event of a lost pet.
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