How much does it cost to microchip a cat – and can you get it for free?
The UK has welcomed new legislation that mean it is mandatory to have your cat microchipped.
Introduced on March 13, it is now a legal requirement for cat owners to microchip their cats before 20 weeks of age.
This is to ensure that the relevant contact details are stored and kept up to date for your feline friend.
Cat owners will now have until June 10, 2024, to have their cats microchipped if they haven’t already.
Owners found to have not done so will have a 21-day period to have a microchip implanted or face a fine of up to £500.
But amid the cost of living crisis and rising prices of everything from energy bills to everyday essentials, many may be wondering how much this procedure will set them back.
Here, we look at how much it costs to have a cat microchipped and whether you can get it done for free.
How much does it cost to have a cat microchipped?
The cost of having your pet microchipped varies depending on where you live and the veterinary practice you use.
According to Cats Protection, on average, you can expect to spend around £20 to £30 having your cat microchipped.
Most vets will charge a small fee for the cost of the chip, as well as the time it takes them to perform the procedure.
The procedure sees a vet insert a small chip under your cat’s skin that gives them their own unique code.
Your details are registered with the microchip database company – including your name, address, phone number, pet’s details, and ideally an emergency contact – so that if your car were to go missing, the microchip can be scanned and your details shown to have them returned home.
Amending your details on the chip can also sometimes come with a fee.
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Can I have it done for free?
Some charities and cat rescue organisations can offer microchipping services at a reduced rate or even for free.
In the past, the RSPCA has hosted a free microchipping weekend for pet owners to attend.
Ordinarily, the RSPCA offers the service for a discounted rate of £10.
Many animal rescues will have already taken care of microchipping your pet, but you may need to contact a vet about changing their details.
If you adopt a cat from Cats Protection, the cost of microchipping your new pet is included in the adoption fee.
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