There’s always a good reason why you should microchip your cat. If you’ve been on the fence about whether or not your house cat needs a microchip, this post will help you with your decision-- and, you’ll learn our “3 Rules of Microchipping.”
Just as identification is important for humans…so it is for animals, too. Microchip IDs can make a big difference for your pet’s survival in an emergency situation. Microchips can save a pet’s life and help to reunite a lost pet with its owner. Since June is National Microchipping Month, it’s the perfect time to see your vet about a microchip for your cat.
Why is Microchipping a Cat So Important?
Do you have a rare, prize-winning, or otherwise unusual cat?
Does your cat have a medical condition?
Is the cat a designated support animal for a family member?
If you answered ‘yes’ to any of the above questions, then you have sufficient reason to microchip your cat.
What Does a Microchip Do?
Compared to tags on a cat’s collar, microchips are more secure. A collar can be torn and fall off, or be removed. Microchips also do more than provide your name and contact information for a “return to owner if lost” notice.
If your pet is an award-winning showcat or has other unusual or rare accolades to its credit, then you want to protect your investment and the life of your cat by having it microchipped.
If your cat has a medical condition, then any information regarding medical or health complications can be stored on the chip. When your cat is found and scanned for a microchip, that information will be brought up so that those who are in contact with your pet (veterinarian, rescue, animal control officer) can provide appropriate medical care.
Microchipping can also alleviate stress for pet owners. It gives you peace of mind that, if your cat runs off, there’s a very good chance it will be returned to you.
3 Rules of Pet Microchipping
Rule #1 of Microchipping: Do It Right Away!
Don’t delay getting a microchip for your cat. If the place where you adopt or buy your cat does not provide the microchip, then make an appointment with a veterinarian or rescue where microchipping is done. Do this right away!
Rule #2 of Microchipping: Keep Your Contact Info Up-to-Date
Homeowners often forget to update the microchip with current phone numbers and even addresses, after moving. Regularly updating contact information on your pet’s microchip is so important. Make sure you keep “Update Microchip” on your To Do list after a move or when you receive a new phone number or email address.
Rule #3 of Microchipping: Regularly Check the MIcrochip Reads Properly
Microchips should be checked regularly to make sure they are still working properly and securely in place. It may not seem possible, but chips can get damaged and become unreadable. Have the microchip checked at your pet’s annual well visit.
Delaware’s Friendly Neighborhood Cat Sitters
Kitten Sittin’ of Delaware is here for all your cat sitting needs. Whether you are at work, on vacation, or just out for a very long day…our dedicated team of professional pet sitters are at the ready to care for your kitty. We actively encourage pet microchipping. If you aren’t sure where to get a microchip for your pet, ask us for a resource or check out the microchipping information from the Delaware SPCA.