Cat owners face £500 fine over new microchip law, vet warns

Cat owners are being warned they have 12 months to act before facing a fine of up to £500.

From June 10, 2024, it will become law for all cat owners in England to have their pet microchipped, leaving millions currently at risk of a fine if they do not act.

Figures currently show there are three million cats who aren’t microchipped living in the UK, but owners found without their cat microchipped come next year will have just 21 days to have them fitted.

After those 21 days they may face a fine of up to £500.

There are currently 3 million cats who aren’t microchipped in the UK (Image: Getty/Lucky Business)

The 2023 PDSA Animal Wellbeing (PAW) Report revealed that 67% of cat owners are unaware that the new legislation will mean that all cats in England must be microchipped.

PDSA vet Lynne James said: “Microchipping is a one-off cost, which provides a lifetime of security for pet owners. We strongly recommend all cats are microchipped before they start going outside.

“Even if your cat prefers the indoor life, microchipping provides an extra safety net, should they manage to escape and become lost.”

She shared her top tips and advice for anyone wondering about microchipping:

Why microchip your cat?

Microchipping ensures any lost or stolen cats have the best chance of being reunited with their owners as quickly as possible. Microchips are implanted under your cat’s skin between the shoulder blades – it a very quick procedure that takes just a few seconds. The best part, a single microchip should last for your cat’s lifetime, so there’s no need to think about it again once it’s done.

How to get your cat microchipped?

Microchips can be implanted by vets, vet nurses and people who have been specially trained. Many vets will have appointments available to get your cat microchipped, but it’s important to plan ahead and book an appointment well in advance of June next year, as there may be a waiting list, or limited appointments.

When to get your cat microchipped?

Whilst there is no minimum age to have your cat microchipped, it is important to get it done before your cat goes outside for the first time. Younger cats are often microchipped at the same time as neutering, but for older pets, the procedure can usually be done in an appointment. The new legislation states that cats must be microchipped by 20 weeks of age.

Will microchipping hurt my cat?

Like any injection, microchipping can cause a tiny amount of discomfort but fortunately it is a very quick procedure that just takes a few seconds. Most pets barely notice it and they can be easily distracted with a treat after the procedure.

What is the cost of microchipping a cat?

Costs do vary, but microchipping is usually around £10 to £30 per pet. Some veterinary clinics and charities such as Cats Protection offer discounted microchipping schemes alongside neutering. It’s best to research what is available in your area to find the best option for you and your pet.

Do I need to microchip my indoor cat?

The legislation will apply to all pet cats in England. Even if your cat stays indoors, it’s a good idea to make sure they have a microchip, in case they ever manage to sneak out and get lost. It’s all too easy for a window or door to be accidentally left open, especially in the summer, and a microchip will help to ensure you can be reunited.

Lynne added: “It is really important that owners are aware of which database their pet’s microchip is registered to so they are able to keep their details up to date.

“Moving address or getting a new phone number are simple, but vital changes for the microchip database, should your cat become lost or stolen.

“In our latest PAW Report, 60% of veterinary professionals told us that they had experienced owners’ details not being up to date on microchip databases, which could make the difference between an owner being reunited with their pet or very sadly, not.”