Get Your Cat Microchipped – So That A Missed Pet Can Find Their Home With Safe
Cats have a reputation for being independent creatures, often roaming on their own without any supervision. However, this can make it challenging to track them down if they get lost. According to the American Humane Association, approximately 10 million pets go missing in the US every year, and sadly, only around 26% of dogs and less than 5% of cats are returned to their owners.
But what if there was a way to increase the chances of finding your missing cat and bringing them back home with you? This is where microchipping comes in. Microchipping is a safe and effective way to ensure that your furry friend can be identified if they ever get lost.
What is a microchip?
A microchip is a tiny, electronic device about the size of a grain of rice that is placed under the cat’s skin, usually between their shoulder blades. It contains a unique identification code, which can be read by a scanner. The information on the microchip is linked to a database that contains the owner’s contact information, making it easier for a lost cat to be reunited with their family.
The microchip itself is harmless and does not require any batteries or maintenance. It is designed to last for the life of your cat and can be used multiple times if they ever get lost and found again.
The importance of microchipping your cat
There are several benefits to microchipping your cat, including:
1. Quick and easy identification
Microchips provide a permanent form of identification that cannot be lost or easily removed. Unlike collars or tags, which can wear out or come off, microchips are embedded under the skin, making them tamper-proof and ensuring that your cat’s identification is always with them.
2. Increases the chances of being reunited with your missing cat
If your cat gets lost and is taken to a shelter or veterinary clinic, they will be scanned for a microchip. The unique code on the microchip will be used to identify your cat and retrieve your contact information from the database. This significantly increases the chances of your cat being returned to you since collars and tags can easily get lost or removed.
3. It can save your cat’s life
Unfortunately, lost cats can end up in shelters or on the streets, where they may be euthanized if their owners cannot be found. Microchipping ensures that your cat can be traced back to you, preventing them from being put down.
4. Cost-effective
The cost of microchipping your cat is relatively low, and it is a one-time expense that can last for the life of your cat. Many animal shelters and rescue organizations offer microchipping at a discounted rate or even for free during adoption events, making it even more affordable.
The microchipping process
The process of microchipping your cat is quick and painless. It can be done at your veterinarian’s office, where a licensed professional will insert the microchip under your cat’s skin using a specialized needle. It is virtually the same process as giving your cat a routine vaccination.
The microchip will contain a unique identification number, which must be registered in a national pet recovery database along with your contact information. It is essential to keep this information up to date so that if your cat ever gets lost, their microchip can be traced back to you.
Other ways to keep your cat safe
In addition to microchipping, there are other steps you can take to ensure your cat’s safety:
1. Keep your cat indoors
The best way to keep your cat safe is to keep them indoors. This prevents them from wandering off and getting lost or injured. If your cat is used to being indoors, they may not be able to fend for themselves when faced with the outside world, making them more vulnerable.
2. Use collars and tags
While collars and tags can easily be lost, they can also serve as an additional form of identification if your cat gets lost. Make sure to include your name, phone number, and address on the tag. Regularly check the collar’s fit to ensure that it is not too tight, causing discomfort or too loose, making it easy for your cat to slip out of it.
3. Update your contact information
If you move or change your phone number, make sure to update your contact information in the microchip database. This will ensure that your lost cat can be traced back to you, even if you have changed your address or phone number.
Final thoughts
Microchipping your cat is a crucial step towards keeping them safe and ensuring that you can be reunited with them if they ever get lost. It is a one-time expense that can save you a lot of heartache and stress if your beloved feline ever goes missing. So don’t wait any longer, get your cat microchipped today and give yourself peace of mind knowing that your furry friend will always find their way back home to you.
