New Government regulations come in to force shortly. As has previously happened with dogs a few years ago, it will now become a legal requirement to have your cat microchipped by June 10th 2024. If your cat isn't chipped by this date, you have 21 days to comply or you could face a fine of up to £500. In the future, cats must be chipped by the time they are 20 weeks old.
For more information please visit: https://www.gov.uk/get-your-dog-cat-microchipped
The chips have to be inserted by a trained professional, in order to do it safely and effectively. As well as veterinary practices, some charities, rescue or rehoming centres may also be able to perform this.
Not necessarily! It is important to use high-quality microchips that will not fail/malfunction and the database used to record the information should be one that is reputable and easy for vets/council/charites to access quickly and easily to obtain ownership information in case of emergency. We use the "Backhome" chips (by Virbac) and the database is the UK PETtrac Microchip Database
The microchips are inserted through a needle that goes through the skin in the scruff of the neck just behind the shoulder-blades. Most cats tolerate this quite well and it is usually done in a routine consultation and takes a matter of a few minutes.
Your contact details are then linked to the microchip number and recorded instantly on the database.
There are going to be a few cats, where their temperament may preclude the easy (and safe!) insertion of a microchip. In these cases, we can prescribe a medication that they can be given at home prior to the appointment, that makes them much less likely to be reactive. Please discuss this scenario with one of our vets/nurses in advance if you think this is going to be likely.
As this is becoming a legal requirement - we are offering the microchip and registration at a discounted price of £18.
Due to the large numbers of cats that we anticipate requiring microchips, we have set appointment times during the week where we are running special clinics.
Please book your slot online below and select:
"Special Offer - Cat Microchip Appointment" from the drop down list.
Bilton Veterinary Centre
259 BIlton Road
Rugby
Warwickshire CV22 7EQ
Tel: 01788 812650
email: enquiries@biltonvets.co.uk