A Complete Guide on Microchipping for Cats
The concept of microchipping your pet was practically unheard of just thirty years ago, but it is now one of the first things that most pet owners do when they acquire a new addition to the family. Still, as animal welfare and safety is, not before time, becoming more and more prominent, microchipping is too.
So, if you are planning on adopting a cat from a local animal shelter or are currently engaged in thorough research on bringing a kitten into your home. Microchipping is definitely something you need to know about.
What Actually is Microchipping?
Basically, microchipping is inserting a tiny chip, which is about the same size as a single grain of rice, under your cat’s skin, the location of which usually depends on the size, age, and weight of your pet.
Prominent and established veterinary clinics, such as a Veterinarian in Des Moines, WA, usually carry out this procedure. Still, local authorities can also conduct the microchipping procedure in certain instances.
Once your cherished cat is microchipped, this means your cat will now have their own unique code, so if they were to go missing, a microchip scanner could identify not only the name of the cat and your own home address but also if they need any medication that they take regularly.
Where Does the Law Stand on Microchipping?
Currently, different states across the country have specific laws on microchipping pets. For example, it is against the law in Texas not to have your pet microchipped.
Interestingly, after a 2022 government ruling, it is now a legal requirement for cats to be microchipped in the United Kingdom, and it remains to be seen whether they the US will follow suit.
The Benefits of Microchipping
The personal details contained within the tiny chip that have been painlessly inserted into your cat is perhaps the best way to ensure you always know where they are and that they are safe.
If they do come to harm, your cat has a much better chance of not only being reunited with you but also receiving the professional medical attention that they may well need. Additionally, some people incorrectly assume that an ID tag on their cat’s collar is sufficient, but this can easily be torn off in a fight or else come loose.
Other Safety Advice for Cats
Aside from microchipping, there are also other ways in which you can protect your cat from harm, both inside the home and outdoors.
Health checks with a professional veterinarian play a huge role in this, and if you ever have even the slightest concern that your cat has been injured in any way or else you have noticed a change in behavior that simply is not normal, then do not hesitate to book an appointment.
Other ways you can ensure your cat’s happiness and healthiness as much as possible is to ensure you keep up with their required annual vaccinations, only use the medication prescribed to them, and conduct visual health checks yourself regularly.
