When your cat is a beloved family member, it can be devastating if they get lost. Luckily, microchipping is a safe way to increase the chance that you’ll be reunited with your furry friend if you ever get separated.
But many cat lovers have concerns about microchips and whether or not they’re safe. Today we answer some of the most common questions about microchipping to help you decide whether you should get one for your cat.
What Does It Mean to Microchip a Cat?
A microchip is a tiny computer chip that transmits information when scanned by a special device. Microchips for cats contain their owner’s identification information so they can be quickly reunited if they ever get lost.
To microchip a cat, a vet simply injects the tiny, sterile chip beneath the cat’s skin, typically between the shoulder blades. The process is much like when your cat gets a shot or has their blood drawn.
After inserting the microchip, the vet scans the cat to ensure the chip is working properly. Then you must register the chip’s number in a database, along with your contact information.
Is Microchipping Safe?
Microchipping your cat is perfectly safe and highly recommended by veterinarians. Microchips that are intended for pets are coated in a biocompatible material, so that they won’t cause any allergic reactions. Most of the time, cats barely even notice that anything has happened when they get injected with a microchip.
Why Should You Microchip Your Cat?
If you have an outdoor cat, it’s crucial that you have them microchipped in case they ever travel a little too far and get lost, or even stolen. Even if your cat wears a collar with an ID tag, it’s still important to microchip them in case the collar or tag falls off.
It’s just as necessary to microchip an indoor cat, even if you never let them outside. Cats are curious creatures and could slip through an open door or cracked window at any moment. Or they may escape while you’re taking them to the vet or traveling elsewhere.
A Microchip Could Reunite You with Your Cat
Whether you let your cat outside or not, microchipping your fur baby significantly increases the chances of a happy reunion. One respected study found that the return to owner rate for missing cats was 21.4 times higher for cats with a microchip.
If someone picks up your missing cat and brings them to a shelter or a vet, they will scan your cat to see if they have a microchip. The microchip will give them a registration number that can be used to retrieve your contact information to facilitate a speedy reunion.
Cat Microchipping in Gilbert, Arizona
If you decide to microchip your cat, or would like to know if your adopted cat has a microchip, come to Anasazi Animal Clinic. Our compassionate team will make your pet feel as comfortable as possible when getting a microchip or being scanned.
Of course, we’re also happy to answer any questions or concerns you have about microchipping. Give us a call at 480-497-0505 to schedule an appointment.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (6/1/2023). Photo by Oscar Fickel on Unsplash