Starting from 10 June 2024, microchipping your cat will become a legal requirement in England. This important new rule mandates that cats must be implanted with a microchip by the time they reach 20 weeks of age. Furthermore, owners must ensure that their contact details are stored and kept up to date on a pet microchipping database.
Why Microchipping is Essential
Microchipping is a simple, yet vital procedure that significantly increases the chances of reuniting lost or stolen pets with their owners. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) estimates that approximately 2.8 million cats in the UK are currently unchipped. Without a microchip, it becomes exceedingly difficult to identify and return lost or stolen cats to their rightful owners.
What the New Law Means for Cat Owners
Under the new regulations, if you own a cat, you will need to ensure they are microchipped before they reach 20 weeks of age. The microchip contains a unique identification number that, when scanned, reveals the owner's contact information stored in a national database. This information must be kept up to date to ensure that you can be contacted if your cat is found.
Compliance and Penalties
If an owner is found to have not microchipped their cat, they will be given a 21-day period to comply with the law. Failure to have a microchip implanted within this timeframe could result in a fine of up to £500.
We are urging all cat owners to not leave microchipping their cat, or checking that their pet is chipped and their details are up to date, to the last minute. Delaying this crucial step could not only result in a hefty fine but more importantly, could endanger the safety and wellbeing of your beloved pet.
Microchipping is a quick and painless procedure that can be performed by your vet. Once done, it’s important to register the microchip and keep your contact information current. This simple action can make a world of difference if your cat ever goes missing.
How to Get Started
Visit Your Vet: Schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to have your cat microchipped.
Register the Chip: Ensure the microchip is registered with your correct contact information in a national pet database.
Keep Information Updated: If you move or change your phone number, update your information in the database.
By taking these steps, you are not only complying with the law but also taking a significant step towards ensuring the safety of your cat.
Stay ahead of the deadline, protect your furry friend, and avoid unnecessary fines by making microchipping a priority today.
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