What does it mean to microchip your cat?
Microchipping a cat involves placing a small, grain-of-rice-sized RFID tag into the pet. This tag has a specific number electronically attached to it, which is linked to your information in a database. If your cat is lost and found, it can be scanned to identify the owner and facilitate its return.
Dr. Chris Jones
Haywood Animal Hospital
Why do veterinarians recommend cat microchipping?
Even though most cats do not leave the home, veterinarians recommend microchipping them as a precaution against unexpected situations such as the cat escaping through an open door or window, or being stolen. Microchipping increases the chances of reuniting lost cats with their owners.
Is microchipping dangerous or painful for my cat?
Microchipping is not dangerous for cats. It may cause a brief pinch during the procedure due to the slightly larger needle size compared to a typical vaccine syringe, but the pain quickly subsides.
How would the cat microchip be used to identify my cat?
When a microchipped cat is found and brought to an animal hospital or shelter, it will be scanned using a special scanner. The scanner reads the unique number on the microchip, which is linked to your information in a database. You will then be contacted about your missing pet.
Why does my cat need a microchip if they already have a collar and a tag?
Cat collars and tags often have a quick-release feature to prevent choking if the cat gets caught on something. This means that collars can be easily removed or lost, leaving the cat without any identification. Microchipping provides a permanent method of identification in these cases.
Will my cat's microchip be able to tell me my cat's location?
No, most microchips do not have GPS tracking capabilities. They only store identification information that can be read when the cat is scanned.
Who can scan my cat's microchip information?
Any animal hospital or shelter that your lost pet is brought to should have the capability to scan your cat's microchip.
When will a cat microchip be scanned?
Cat microchips are typically scanned during yearly wellness exams to ensure they are still active. They will also be scanned if your cat is found and brought to an animal hospital or shelter without your knowledge.
What if I forget or lose my cat's microchip information?
If you lose your cat's microchip information, your veterinarian can scan your pet during its yearly wellness exam to retrieve the microchip number. You can then use this number to update your information in the microchip database online.
What's the difference between a GPS and an RFID device?
A GPS tracker tracks the location of your pet, while an RFID device stores identification information that must be scanned to be retrieved. Most microchips are RFID devices and do not have GPS tracking capabilities.
Cat Microchipping - FAQs
Dr. Chris Jones
Haywood Animal Hospital
How can microchipping help my cat?
Microchipping your cat ensures that if they are lost, they can be returned to you.
Will a microchip tell me my cat's location?
No, microchips are not GPS trackers. The primary function of a microchip is to store a unique identification number, which can be scanned by veterinarians, animal shelters, and rescue organizations to retrieve your contact information. GPS tracking technology is not currently integrated with microchipping systems.
Do all shelters scan for microchips?
As far as we know, all shelters and animal hospitals have the capability to scan for microchips and should scan any stray animal that comes in. This helps them to reunite lost pets with their owners.
Who else can scan my cat's microchip if they get lost?
Only animal shelters and animal hospitals have the capability to scan pet microchips. If someone not affiliated with these organizations were to somehow obtain a scanner, all they would be able to access is the microchip number. They could then look up the registry that the microchip is linked to, but they would not be able to access your personal information without your consent.
Does a microchip ensure that my cat will be found?
A microchip does not guarantee that your cat will be found, but it does increase the likelihood of your cat being returned to you if they are found and brought to a location that can scan the microchip. It is essential to register your pet's microchip and keep your contact information up-to-date to ensure the best chance of being reunited with your lost pet.
How effective is microchipping in helping me find a cat if they're lost?
Microchipping can significantly increase the chances of finding your lost cat, especially if they are found by someone who brings them to an animal hospital or shelter. These facilities can then scan the microchip, retrieve the unique identification number, and use it to obtain your contact information to reunite you with your pet. However, it is essential to register the microchip and keep your contact information up-to-date.
If you still have other questions and you'd like to reach out to us, you can call us directly at (828) 697-0446, or you can email us at [email protected]. But please do reach out, and we'll get back to you as fast as we can. Don't forget to follow us on social media Facebook, Instagram