June 10th 2024.
Starting today, it is important for cat owners to be aware of a new rule that has been put in place. If your furry feline friend is not microchipped, you could be facing a hefty fine of £500. This new law states that all cats must be microchipped before they reach the age of 20 weeks. This not only ensures that your beloved pet can be easily identified if they go missing, but it also helps to reunite them with their owners. According to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, there are currently over nine million pet cats in England, with approximately 2.3 million of them not yet microchipped as of March.
Last month, financial expert Martin Lewis issued a warning to all pet owners, stating that over 20% of cats still needed to be microchipped. He reminded everyone that as of Monday, June 10th, it is now a legal requirement for all cats aged 20 weeks or older to be microchipped and registered on a database. This new law is aimed at helping to bring lost or stray pets back to their owners, as thousands of cats go missing each year.
However, there is a grace period of 21 days from today for cat owners to get their pets microchipped. This means that you have until July 1st to take your cat to the vet and have the quick and painless procedure done. Helen Wood, manager of the Derbyshire Cats Protection Centre, emphasized the importance of microchipping, stating that 66% of cats brought into their center were not chipped.
The microchips used for cats are about the size of a grain of rice and can be implanted by a vet in a matter of seconds. Despite popular belief, this procedure does not cause any pain to the cat and is similar to getting an injection. Once a cat is microchipped, they are chipped for life. This makes it much easier to reunite them with their owners in case they ever go missing.
In comparison to the potential £500 fine, the cost of getting a cat chipped is significantly lower, with most owners paying between £20 to £30, according to Cats Protection. Additionally, not having your cat microchipped could also result in losing out on making a claim for loss or theft on your pet insurance. It is worth noting that this requirement has already been in place for dog owners in England.
In summary, it is now a legal requirement for all cats aged 20 weeks or older in England to be microchipped. This quick and painless procedure not only helps to reunite lost cats with their owners, but it also avoids potential fines and complications with pet insurance. Don't delay, take your cat to the vet and get them microchipped today.
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