Nearly half of UK cat owners are still unaware of the law requiring them to have their pets microchipped by next year, according to new research from the RSPCA.
The survey, of 2,141 adults in England and Wales last month, found that 47% of adults in England were not aware of the new law. In addition, the RSPCA’s own figures show that 83% of cats brought into its animal centres across England and Wales in 2022 were not microchipped.
Under new legislation announced in March this year, from June 10, 2024, it will be a legal requirement to microchip pet cats after they reach 20 weeks of age and to keep their contact details up-to-date on a pet microchipping database. Owners found not to have microchipped their cat will have 21 days to get one implanted or may face a fine of up to £500.
Samantha Watson, scientific officer and cat welfare expert at the RSPCA said: “The countdown is truly on to get cats microchipped and steer clear of those hefty fines.
“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.
“Microchipping dogs has been mandatory for many years, so to finally see the same law and protections being applied to cats is a huge step forward for feline welfare.
“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.”
