Retailer Jollyes is urging Northern Ireland’s cat owners to ensure their pets are microchipped, as research reveals more than a quarter of the region’s cats are unable to be officially identified if lost or stolen.
The call comes as statistics released by charity Cats Protection show that only 67% of Northern Ireland’s cats are microchipped, making it the least likely place in the UK for a cat to be chipped for the fourth year in a row. With a further 4% of the province’s cat owners unsure if their cats are microchipped or not, there are at least 76,000 cats without a microchip in the region.
From June 10, it is compulsory in England for cats to have a microchip, but no similar law exists in Northern Ireland. Jollyes operates Community Pet Clinics in 12 of its 15 stores in Northern Ireland and offers pet microchipping from £13, which it claims is a considerable discount compared to vet practices. The retailer has submitted evidence on pricing to the Competition & Markets Authority (CMA), which recently launched a full market investigation into the veterinary sector.
Retail director Craig Smith said: “Seeing the stark comparison between Jollyes’ prices and the big six vet chains shows it’s right that the government is currently investigating high prices at the big six vets.
“Microchipping your pet is one of the most important things you can do and our concern is that many pet parents are put off by prices that are much higher than they need to be. It’s crucial that owners are able to make informed decisions about the cost they’re paying for the service.
“Our clinics are essential for the health and wellbeing of our furry friends, and we’re incredibly proud of the value for money that we offer through our dedicated team of vets who are all accredited by the Royal Veterinary College.”
