Attention all cat owners! You've got just a little over three months left to ensure your furry friends are microchipped, or else you could be facing a hefty fine of £500.
Last March, the government announced a new law mandating that all pet cats in England must be microchipped by the summer of 2024, following in the footsteps of dogs, which have been required to be microchipped since April 2016 in England, Scotland, and Wales.
Mayhew Animal Home, a staunch advocate for this change, shed light on the necessity of microchipping, stating that out of the over 11 million pet cats in England, a staggering 2.3 million remain without a microchip, making it incredibly challenging to reunite them with their owners if they're lost or stolen.
The push for this legislation came after years of campaigning by various animal welfare organizations, stressing the importance of microchipping for both dogs and cats. As of June 10th, it will be compulsory for cats in England to be microchipped and registered on a database by the time they reach 20 weeks of age. Failure to comply could result in fines of up to £500.
Even indoor cats are not exempt from this requirement, as they too face the risk of escaping through open windows or doors, especially during warm weather or if they're unneutered and seeking a mate.
As for the cost, getting your cat microchipped is a relatively simple and affordable procedure, typically ranging from £10 to £30, performed by vets, vet nurses, or trained individuals.
Chief veterinary officer Christine Middlemiss emphasized the importance of microchipping, noting that it significantly increases the chances of lost pets being reunited with their owners. With microchipped pets being twice as likely to find their way back home, it's a small investment for the peace of mind that comes with knowing your beloved feline companion can be easily identified if they ever go missing.
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