Discover the advantages of microchipping your cat at Turlock with insights from our veterinarians. It can greatly boost the chances of locating your feline friend if they ever go missing.
What is a microchip?
Microchips are small gadgets that can find lost pets if they wander away from home.
Some people think that it might be invasive or difficult to implant the microchip. The process is quick and virtually painless, with most cats experiencing no discomfort at all. After the chip is implanted, you must register your cat's information and the chip's serial number with the manufacturer.
If your cat gets lost and someone finds them, they can use the serial number on the chip to figure out who they belong to and bring them back to you safely.
Why not just get a collar and tag for my cat?
When it comes to helping lost cats, collars and tags are must-haves. These tags make it easy for people to reach you by just reading the tag and calling the number.
Outdoor cats should always wear collars and identification tags, particularly in case of emergency. It is important to include your name and contact number on your cat's tag. Even indoor cats can benefit from identification tags since they often manage to sneak outside unnoticed.
However, collars and tags can get lost, leaving your cat without ID. Microchips are a permanent solution. Keep your microchip info current; if you move or change your number, update it with the microchip company.
How do microchips work?
If your cat is lost and found by a vet or rescue group, they'll use a special microchip scanner. This scanner works with all modern microchips, no matter the brand. They'll gently pass over the cat's back and sides, and the microchip will transmit its unique identification number to the scanner.
The rescuer will then contact the national database to find your phone number and notify you that your cat has been found. Microchips can also be helpful in proving ownership if your cat is stolen.
If you want more information, feel free to ask!