Last Updated on August 20, 2023 by Fumipets
Everything You Need to Know About Microchipping Your Cat
The article “Microchipping Your Cat” explores the importance of microchipping as a means of identification and protection for cats. It discusses the process of microchipping, its benefits, and how it works.
The article also addresses common concerns and considerations related to microchipping your feline friend.
Microchipping Your Cat
Because cats are naturally curious, indoor cats who don’t get much exposure to the outdoors are more likely to try to flee whenever they see an opening. If you’re fortunate, your cat won’t go too far, and she’s got an ID tag and collar that will let a kind stranger bring her back to the security of your house.
However, as the adage goes, “better safe than sorry,” and that’s why microchipping your cat is important. Even if the pet has lost her collar or gone far from home, a microchip may still easily and safely reconnect them with their owners. Here is everything you need know if you’re thinking of microchipping your cat.
What Is a Microchip?
A microchip is a kind of permanent identification that is injected under your cat’s skin. However, it is not a tracking device because it does not display the location of your pet; instead, it stores a special ID number that is connected to your contact information. When your missing pet is brought to a clinic or animal shelter, she will be checked for a microchip.
The scanner will locate an identifying number pre-registered with your phone number or address if your cat has a chip, and it will telephone the information to a pet recovery agency. There, authorities will be able to get in touch with you and give your cat back to you.
Your cat could already have a microchip if she was rehomed or adopted from a shelter. At her subsequent visit to the clinic, you may have your cat’s microchip scanned to register her ID number. It’s critical to update that information since you don’t want the incorrect family to be notified in the event of her disappearance.
Why Should Your Cat Have a Microchip?
Despite the fact that every pet should wear a collar and tags with your contact information, a microchip offers a second form of identification that cannot ever be lost or removed.
According to Kimberley Alboum, the Humane Society of the United States’ director of shelter outreach and policy engagement, microchips provide an additional layer of security in the event that your pet loses its collar and tags. If your pet goes lost, increasing the odds of a reunion by giving them tags and microchips is a good idea.
You may rest easy knowing that if your cat ever disappears, their microchip will link them to you. Less than 2% of cats without microchips are returned home, according to HomeAgain’s microchip experts. The return-to-owner rate is 20 times greater for microchipped cats than for unmicrochipped cats.
Do Microchips Hurt Cats?
The quick operation just takes a few minutes, and the small, grain-sized capsules are perfectly safe for your cat. It is as easy and painless as receiving a standard immunisation and doesn’t need anaesthesia.
When Should You Microchip Your Cat?
Despite the non-invasive nature of the technique, most shelters don’t microchip kittens until they are at least 8 weeks old. The usual location for the chips is where there is loose skin between the shoulder blades. As they are only skin-deep, they can migrate with age but never have an impact on any of your cats’ vital organs. The whole body should be examined by a veterinarian to check for chips that may have shifted over time. Additionally, unlike collars, microchips are permanent in cats.
How Much Does It Cost to Microchip Your Cat?
The typical price is about $45; this sum covers the actual chip, the vet visit, and any applicable registration costs.
What Should You Do After Microchipping Your Cat?
The microchip implantation is only the initial action. The next step is to register your ID number with a national database for pet recovery. Remember to update that information if your phone number or address changes. Reconnecting with your cat will be much more difficult if the information is outdated.
We don’t want to consider the worst-case scenario with our cats, but a microchipping your cats will make sure they return home safely if they become a bit too inquisitive about the outside world.
Questions & Answers:
What is microchipping, and why is it important for cats?
Microchipping involves implanting a tiny device under a cat’s skin, containing a unique identification code. It’s crucial for identifying lost or stray cats and reuniting them with their owners.
How does microchipping work?
A veterinarian or trained professional inserts a microchip, usually between the shoulder blades. When scanned, the chip’s code appears, allowing shelters, veterinarians, or animal control agencies to access the owner’s contact information.
Is microchipping painful for cats?
The procedure is relatively quick and minimally invasive, causing little discomfort. Most cats experience only a brief moment of mild discomfort during insertion.
Can microchips get lost or damaged?
Microchips are designed to be safe and durable, but rare instances of migration or failure can occur. Regularly updating your contact information and asking your veterinarian to check the chip’s position during routine visits can help prevent issues.
What steps should be taken after microchipping a cat?
After microchipping, ensure your contact information is registered and up-to-date in the microchip database. This is crucial for successful reunions in case your cat goes missing. Also, remember to keep your cat’s collar and tags updated as a secondary form of identification.
“Microchipping Your Cat” educates cat owners about the benefits of microchipping, how the process works, and the role it plays in safeguarding feline companions. This article provides valuable information for those considering microchipping their cats for added peace of mind.
