managing your money
Published 14 May 2024
2 min read
Cat owners who fail to microchip their moggies to be fined £500
From 10 June it will be a legal requirement to microchip your cat in England. Owners who fail to comply with the new legislation could face a fine.
Written by: Caroline Chell
Head of Communications
Published: 14 May 2024
According to the PSDA, 22% of cats – 2.4 million – aren’t microchipped.
The new rules, which state cats must be microchipped before the age of 20 weeks, have been introduced to make it easier for lost or stray cats to be reunited with their owners and returned home safely.
The government also hopes that it will tackle common welfare issues for cats such as abandonment.
It costs between £10-£30 to microchip a cat.
Owners who miss the deadline will have 21 days to have a microchip implanted or could be fined up to £500.
In-door cats must also be microchipped.
What is a microchip?
A microchip is a tiny device that’s inserted under the skin of your pet. It contains a unique code that links your pet to you through an online database.
A microchip is inserted by a vet and it’s a painless procedure for your pet.
Rescue centres, animal wardens and vets all scan for microchips when trying to identify cats and their owners.
Can I get my cat microchipped for free?
Some charities and cat rescue organisations offer microchipping at a reduced rate or even for free. Speak to local organisations to see if they can help you cover the cost.
The Blue Cross charity recently piloted a free cat microchipping scheme to help low-income households. They are running similar schemes all over the country.
While the RSPCA offers the service for £10 for both dogs and cats at £10.
Cats Protection also makes sure all the cats they rehome are microchipped for free before they leave their care.
Written by: Caroline Chell
Head of Communications
Caroline has worked in financial communications for more than 10 years, writing content on subjects such as pensions, mortgages, loans and credit cards, as well as stockbroking and investment advice.
Published: 14 May 2024
The information in this post was correct at the time of publishing. Please check when it was written, as information can go out of date over time.
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Written by: Caroline Chell
Head of Communications
Published: 14 May 2024
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