Microchipping your cat can help to increase the chances that they will be found if they get lost. Read on to learn more from our Edgewater vets about how microchipping is beneficial for cats.
What is a microchip?
Microchips are little radio-frequency identification (RFID) chips that can assist veterinarians and animal shelters in locating pet owners if their animal is located. Microchips are about the size of a grain of rice and are normally implanted beneath the skin, between the cat's shoulder blades.
The procedure for microchipping your cat does not necessitate surgery. The chip is inserted just beneath the skin with a needle, causing little discomfort. In fact, the majority of cats have little to no reaction to having a microchip implanted.
After your cat has been microchipped, you must register the serial number of the chip as well as your cat's information with the business that manufactured the chip. If your cat is recovered, it can be traced back to you by comparing their information with the serial number of the microchip..
Why not just get a collar and tag for my cat?
Collars and tags are helpful tools for reuniting missing cats with their owners. People can contact the owner by simply reading the tag and dialing the phone number stated on it. Outdoor cats should always wear collars and wear identify tags in case they go lost. Make a note of your name and phone number on your cat's tag. Identification tags are also useful for indoor cats, as cats frequently escape while their owners are not looking.
Even if you provide your cat with a collar and identification tag, tags might fall off and become misplaced, leaving your cat with no identifying information. Microchips are a permanent method of providing your cat with identity.
NOTE: It is critical to make your microchip registration information current. If you relocate or change your phone number, contact the microchip vendor to update your information..
How do microchips work?
If your cat is discovered, the vet or rescue organization will read the microchip using a special scanner. Microchip scanners are ubiquitous in that they can read any modern chip, independent of brand. The microchip will broadcast its unique identifying number to the scanner when the scanner is passed over the cat's back and sides.
The rescuer will then contact the national database to find out your phone number so that you can be notified that your cat has been found.
Should your cat be stolen, microchips can also be very helpful when it comes to proving ownership.