10th June 2024 is the date that all UK cat owners are required to get their cats microchipped or face a £500 fine. Microchips will be required before kittens are 20 weeks old. As microchips are issued with a unique number, this needs to be registered on one of the 20 government standard databases. The database entry includes current address and contact phone number, so that you can be contacted should your animal get lost or stolen. It has been compulsory since April 2016 for dog owners and the new law brings felines into equal status.

Microchips are inserted underneath the cat’s skin, usually around the neck/shoulder area. Some animal charities are offering free chipping, or reduced fees for those on low income. You are advised to ask for proof of a microchip, before getting a dog or cat; this information can be found on a pet passport or by a microchip certificate.

Failure to have your animal microchipped can lead to your pet insurance company refusing to pay out on lost or stolen animals. Should your animal be scanned and found not to have a microchip, you will have 21 days to rectify this, or face a £500 fine. It has been suggested that 25% of animal owners have yet to get their pet microchipped.