The countdown is on: Why microchipping your cat is now essential in England

From the 10th June, it will become a legal requirement to have your cat microchipped in England.

Yet, HomeAgain? research reveals a staggering 1.5 million UK cat owners have yet to microchip their cats. This figure is alarming, especially when over a third of cat owners in England (38%) are unaware of the upcoming legal mandate for cats to be microchipped.

Although the UK’s affection for cats is undeniable, with 30% of cat owners admitting to loving their cats more than humans, there is clearly a significant gap in awareness and action regarding microchipping. This oversight not only risks the pets’ safety but also places owners at risk of legal penalties, including fines up to ￡500.

Microchipping is more than a legal formality, it’s a critical tool for pet safety and family peace of mind. The statistics are telling, with one in five cat owners reporting their pet has gone missing, and 70% saying this happens a few times a year.

Furthermore, the reunion process for unchipped cats is fraught with challenges, complicating the efforts of veterinary practices and animal welfare organisations.?

The importance of microchipping

Michelle Townley , a veterinary adviser to HomeAgain?, part of MSD Animal Health UK, explains why microchipping is an important tool for any cat owner.

“Microchipping is the best chance of being reunited with your cat quickly,” she says.

“It’s a permanent, effective means of identification, unlike collars and tags that can get lost.”

Registering your cat’s microchip on a government compliant database, such as HomeAgain?’s Pet Recovery Database, is essential.

This free service ensures your pet can be quickly linked back to you, providing 24/7 UK-based support in the unfortunate event they go missing.

Regional insights

HomeAgain?’s Cat Map reveals significant regional disparities in microchipping rates and missing pet incidents. For instance, Birmingham shows a notable lag, with 39% of cat owners either not having microchipped their pets or unsure if they have, compared to Gloucester’s proactive stance, where only 5% are yet to microchip their pets.

Act now

With the deadline looming, the call to action is clear – cat owners in England must microchip their pets as soon as possible. Not only will it be a legal requirement after 10 June 2024, but it’s a measure of safety and care for your beloved pet.

Alice Potter, RSPCA cat welfare expert, and Cat the Vet, a prominent vet and social media influence, both stress the importance of microchipping for family peace of mind. Whether it’s to comply with the new law, ensure your pet’s safety, or for the sheer love of your furry friend, now is the time to act.

Let’s make microchipping a priority.

Contact your local veterinary practice to arrange for your cat’s microchipping today. Let’s keep our beloved pets safe and ensure they always find their way back home.

For more information about HomeAgain? please visit HomeAgain Pet Microchipping - HomeAgain Pet Recovery.