Microchipping Your Pet: How It Works and Why It Matters
In this guide
Every year, many lost pets are reunited with their owners thanks to microchips. Collars and tags can fall off; a microchip stays in place for life.
In some countries, microchipping dogs — and increasingly cats — is a legal requirement.
What a microchip is
A microchip is a tiny device about the size of a grain of rice, injected under the skin, usually between the shoulder blades. It holds a unique number. When a vet, rescue, or warden scans it, the number is matched to your contact details on a database.
Does it hurt?
Implanting a chip is similar to a routine injection. Most pets react briefly, if at all. It can be done during a normal appointment or while a pet is under anaesthetic for neutering.
Keep your details updated
A chip with outdated details cannot get your pet home.
- Update the database when you move house
- Update your phone number when it changes
- Transfer ownership when you rehome or buy a pet
- Check your registration once a year
What a microchip is not
A standard microchip is not a GPS tracker — it cannot show where your pet is. GPS collars are available separately. Microchip-activated cat flaps and feeders use the same chip to let only your cat in.
This is general pet-care information, not veterinary advice. Every animal is different — if you are worried about your pet's health or behaviour, contact your veterinarian. In an emergency or a suspected poisoning, call your vet or an animal poison-control line immediately.