What does it mean to microchip your cat?

To microchip your cat, we actually place a device that's about the size of a grain of rice directly underneath the skin between the shoulder blades. That microchip has a very unique number associated with it that we register to your cat.

Dr. Mark Caldwell

Why do veterinarians recommend cat microchipping?

We recommend microchipping because it is a unique way to identify your animal regardless of the situation that they present to the hospital. For instance, if there's a situation where they lose their collar or ID tag, we can scan them and immediately identify them and trace that unique number back to the owner's information.

Is microchipping dangerous or painful for my cat?

It's not dangerous. Some cats may have a little bit of a pain response from the injection, but we don't see too many side effects at all with it.

How is a cat microchip used to identify my cat?

Each microchip has a unique number sequence that is identified to your animal through the registration process. When we scan the microchip, the number pops up, and we can enter that number to pull up all of the owner's information.

Why does my cat need a microchip if they already have a collar with a tag?

They need a microchip because if they lose that collar or tag and present to an animal hospital or shelter, one of the first things we do is scan the animal for a microchip to ensure we can return them to their rightful owner.

Will my cat's microchip be able to tell me my cat's location?

No, the microchip will not be able to provide the exact location. It can only identify the animal with the owner's registered information.

Who can scan my cat's microchip information?

Any veterinarian and most shelters can scan your cat's microchip information.

When will a cat microchip be scanned?

A cat's microchip is scanned when we initially place the microchip to ensure it registered. We perform annual checks to make sure the microchip is still working. Additionally, if there's ever a situation with a lost pet, we will scan the microchip at that time.

What if I forget or lose my cat's microchip information?

If you forget or lose the microchip information, bring your animal to the veterinarian or local shelter. They can scan the number for you, provide the microchip number, and ensure your registration information is up to date.

If you still have other questions and you'd like to reach out to us, you can call us directly at (480) 233-7276, or you can email us at [email protected]. But please do reach out, and we'll get back to you as fast as we can. Don't forget to follow us on social media Facebook, Instagram

Cat Microchipping - FAQs 1

Dr. Mark Caldwell

How is the microchip implanted in my cat?

The microchip is implanted by using a needle that's slightly bigger than the diameter of a grain of rice to place the microchip directly underneath the skin between the shoulder blades of the back.

How do I get my cat microchipped?

You can get your cat microchipped by bringing your animal to a veterinarian or to a shelter. Those are two of the most common spots where it's done. If you ask for a microchip, we'd be more than happy to help.

Where in my cat's body will the microchip go?

The microchip is most commonly placed directly underneath the skin between the shoulder blades of an animal.

Is microchipping painful for my cat?

Most animals don't respond to the microchipping process. The needle is slightly bigger than a regular needle used for a syringe, but most animals don't respond to the injection at all.

Are there any risks or side effects associated with the cat microchipping process?

The only real risks and side effects we see are sometimes a little pain and soreness at the injection site, which is common with any shot. Rarely, if the animal scratches or bothers the area, they might have difficulty healing, but it's very uncommon. 99% of the time, we see zero side effects with the microchipping process.

Is a recovery period needed after microchipping my cat?

Most animals, both dogs and cats, show no signs of the procedure afterward, and there's almost zero recovery time needed.

How often should my cat be scanned after implementing a microchip?

After implementing the microchip, we scan it immediately to ensure it registers and reads. Following that, we recommend an annual check. Typically, we don't do more than that unless there's another indication for it.

If you still have other questions and you'd like to reach out to us, you can call us directly at (480) 233-7276, or you can email us at [email protected]. But please do reach out, and we'll get back to you as fast as we can. Don't forget to follow us on social media Facebook, Instagram