Compulsory Cat Microchipping in the UK: Reunite Lost Pets and Improve Animal Welfare with Peddymark

Key Points:

• Deadline: Microchip your cat by 10 June 2024 to comply with the new UK law.
• Age Requirement: Microchip cats before they turn 20 weeks old.
• Fine: Failure to comply with the legislation may result in a fine of up to £500.

Why is Cat Microchipping Important?

The UK government has introduced compulsory microchipping for all owned cats to help reunite lost or stray pets with their owners and improve animal welfare. With over 9 million pet cats in England and around 2.3 million unchipped, the new cat microchipping legislation aims to make it easier for missing cats to return to loving homes. Peddymark is here to help you comply with the new rules and keep your pet safe.

What Does the New UK Cat Microchipping Law Require?

The legislation requires cats to be implanted with a microchip before they reach 20 weeks old. Owners must keep their contact details up-to-date in a DEFRA-compliant database, such as Animal Tracker. The deadline for cat owners to comply with these new rules is 10 June 2024. Owners who fail to microchip their cats within the given timeframe will have 21 days to comply or may face a fine of up to £500.

How to Microchip Your Cat in the UK with Peddymark

The microchipping must be performed by a licensed professional. If you don’t know any, Peddymark can help you find a licensed implanter. Imported cats must be microchipped within 30 days of arrival in England. If they are already chipped, we can assist you with a transfer to Animal Tracker, our DEFRA-compliant database.

Who Qualifies as a Licensed Professional

Certified implanters, veterinary surgeons and nurses, all qualify as licensed professionals.