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Microchipping your pet

  • 8, Jan 2024
  • Read time: 8 mins

If your dog or cat goes missing, a microchip gives them the best chance of being returned to you quickly.

This guide will take you through what a microchip is and how to go about getting one for your pet. You can also find out how MORE THAN’s Lost and Found cover can help should your pet go missing.

Dog having their microchip checked.

What is a pet microchip?

A pet microchip is a small chip that goes under your dog or cat’s skin in a quick and simple procedure. The microchip has a unique code that, when scanned by a vet, will show yours and your pets' details.

Is dog microchipping compulsory?

Yes, it is a legal requirement for your dog to be microchipped.

Your dog needs to be microchipped from 7 weeks old, and if they’re not, you could be landed with a fine of up to £500.

It’s important that your pet gets microchipped. If they were to go missing, it’s one of the easiest and quickest ways to get you reunited.

Who's responsible for puppy microchipping?

As part of the compulsory dog microchipping law, this is the breeder's responsibility. If your puppy is not registered before they turn 8 weeks old, the breeder is breaking the law.

When you collect your puppy, remind the breeder to give you the microchip paperwork. On your first vet visit with your puppy, your vet can scan and update your details on the microchip database.

Not sure if your puppy has a microchip? You’ll need to first check with your vet, who (if they are chipped) will be able to give you the microchip number. You can then use an online chip checker to find out who it’s registered with.

How much does it cost to microchip my dog?

The cost of microchipping your dog can vary. Vets tend to charge between £10 and £30, plus there may be an extra fee for your appointment. Some charities may offer it for free if you’re eligible, such as Battersea or Blue Cross.

If you need to change any details on your dog’s microchip, such as your home address, you may be charged an admin fee.

Where can I microchip my dog?

There are a few places that offer dog microchipping, such as:

  • Your vets
  • A charity
  • Rescue centres

Make sure that wherever you choose, they have a microchip qualification. The microchip will also need to be registered on a Government-approved database.

What’s the microchipping procedure?

It’s simple, safe and quick, and takes a matter of seconds to do. A chip the size of a grain of rice will go under your dog’s skin using a special implanter. This is usually on the scruff of their neck where there is excess skin.

Once your dog has been microchipped, you’ll receive confirmation by email or letter. This will contain the reference and microchip numbers.

Microchips are a non-reactive metal, which means they shouldn’t cause any discomfort. The procedure is no more painful than a standard injection, such as a booster vaccine.

Speak to the person carrying out the procedure if you're worried about how your dog may react.

Is cat microchipping compulsory?

Microchipping your cat isn't compulsory at the moment, however it will be from 10 June 2024. Owners who don't get their pet microchipped by this date could face a fine of up to £500.

As well as becoming a legal requirement, microchipping can also provide peace of mind. Cat's notoriously love to roam and explore outdoors. If you have recently moved or your cat is joining you on holiday, they might wander off and not know their way back to you. A microchip can help with their safe return if your contact details are up to date on the database.

What are the costs of microchipping a cat?

The cost of microchipping your cat can vary. Vets tend to charge between £10 and £30, plus there may be an extra fee for your appointment. Some charities may offer it for free if you’re eligible, such as your local rescue centre or cat charity.

If you need to change any details on your cat’s microchip, such as your home address, you may be charged an admin fee.

Where can I microchip my cat?

There are a few places that offer cat microchipping, such as:

  • Your vets
  • A charity
  • Rescue centres

Make sure that wherever you choose, they have a microchip qualification.

What’s the microchipping procedure?

It’s simple, safe and quick, and takes a matter of seconds to do. A chip the size of a grain of rice will go under your cat’s skin using a special implanter.

Once your cat has been microchipped, you’ll receive confirmation by email or letter. This will contain the reference and microchip numbers.

Microchips are a non-reactive metal, which means they shouldn’t cause any discomfort. The procedure is no more painful than a standard injection, such as a booster vaccine.

Speak to the person carrying out the procedure if you're worried about how your cat may react.

How do I change microchip details?

If your contact information changes, you’ll need to update the microchip details. Examples include if you move house or get a new phone number.

To do this, you’ll need to log into or call the database in which your pet’s microchip is registered. If you’re not sure who they’re registered with, use an online chip checker. Your vet should also be able to tell you the microchip number if you’re not sure.

Protecting your pet

Not only is a microchip a legal requirement for dogs, it can be very helpful if your pet goes missing. It can make it easier and quicker for you to be reunited with them.

With MORE THAN’s pet insurance, we also offer Lost and Found cover*. This could cover the cost of local advertising, plus a reward for the recovery of your pet if they're lost or stolen.


*Included with Classic and Premier cover levels only. Optional add on for Basic cover level.

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