Many people unaware of new cat microchipping law
The new law will require all pet cats in England to be microchipped after they reach 20 weeks of age.
According to RSPCA research conducted at the end of May, 47 per cent of adults in England are not aware of the new cat microchipping law that comes into force from 10 June 2024.
The charity is warning pet owners that if they are found not to have microchipped their cat, they will have 21 days to get one implanted or risk facing a fine of £500.
The new legislation was announced in March and requires all pet cats in England to be microchipped after they reach 20 weeks of age. Owners will also be required to keep their contact details up-to-date on a pet microchipping database. The new law does not apply to unowned or feral cats.
The charity has also reported that 83 per cent of cats brought into its animal centres in England and Wales in 2022 were not microchipped.
Samantha Watson, scientific officer at the RSPCA said: “Microchipping is an absolutely essential component of being a responsible pet owner. This new law means that lost cats can be easily identified and reunited with their owners, rather than being handed to rehoming charities who are struggling with overflowing waiting lists.
“We are hopeful that alongside increasing the number of lost or injured cats reunited with their owners, the new law will help to tackle other common welfare issues for cats, including abandonments.”
The RSPCA’s survey showed that the new microchipping law is supported by the majority of the public, with 75 per cent of adults in England agreeing that the legislation is a positive development for cat welfare.
The charity is hopeful that Wales will follow England and introduce compulsory microchipping for cats.
Ms Watson said: “Seven in ten adults in Wales agree that mandatory microchipping would improve cat welfare in Wales.
“Which goes to show the public are heavily in favour of introducing microchipping laws, it’s just down to the Welsh government now to take action.”
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
