Frequently Asked Questions

Under The Microchipping of Cats and Dogs (England) Regulations 2023, effective 10 June 2024, ALL owned dogs must be microchipped by 8 weeks old, and ALL owned cats by 20 weeks old. This requirement replaces the earlier Dogs‑only 2015 regulations and now includes cats.

The law applies to owned cats only—farm, rescue or feral cats with minimal human contact are exempt. Failure to microchip or register your pet properly can result in a fine of up to £500. Authorities may issue a compliance notice, giving you 21 days to act, after which the local council may implant a microchip at your expense.



A microchip is a small electronic chip implanted under a pet's skin, containing a unique ID that links to your contact details on a database.
Microchipping helps reunite lost pets with their keepers and is a legal requirement in many parts of the UK.
The procedure is quick and similar to a vaccination. Most pets tolerate it well
A vet or trained professional inserts the chip under the skin between the shoulder blades using a special needle.
Yes, some charities and local councils offer free or discounted microchipping events
No, the process is minimally invasive and over in seconds.
Only a unique ID number; your personal details are kept on a secure database.
No, microchips are not GPS devices and cannot track your pet's real-time location.
Dogs must be microchipped by 8 weeks. Cats must be microchipped by 20 weeks (under England’s law starting in 2024).
Yes. Since 6 April 2016, it’s a legal requirement across the UK.
You may receive a notice and a £500 fine if you don’t comply within 21 days.
Yes, regardless of breed or size.
Yes, breeders must microchip puppies before selling or giving them away.
Ensure the dog is microchipped and registered with your details.
Yes, contact the microchip database your pet is registered with to update your contact info.
Yes, even working dogs must be microchipped.
Yes, and they must comply with UK microchipping regulations upon entry.
Yes, in England from 10 June 2024. Laws vary in other UK nations.
By 20 weeks (5 months) old.
Microchipping is still mandatory in England, even for indoor cats.
Yes, you could be fined up to £500 if you don’t comply within 21 days of notice.
Not yet, but there are discussions about future legislation.
As of now, no – but it is strongly encouraged, and legislation is being considered.
Not currently, though responsible pet keeper is promoted.
Sometimes; many rescue centres will microchip before rehoming.
Yes, as long as they’re healthy and old enough (usually from 8–10 weeks).
Ensure your contact details are up to date on the correct database.
Rarely, but yes. A vet can check if a chip is functioning correctly.
All dogs must be microchipped by 8 weeks old. Non-compliance may result in fines.
All cats must be microchipped by 20 weeks. Applies from 10 June 2024.
Dogs must be microchipped. Cat microchipping is currently voluntary.
Dogs must be microchipped. Cat microchipping is encouraged but not law.
Dogs must be microchipped. Cat microchipping is not yet required by law.
No, but there are several UK-wide government-compliant databases.
Contact the registered database to request a change of keepership form or online update.
No. A microchip is useless unless registered with your correct details.
If found, a vet, shelter, or council can scan the chip and contact you via the database.
Report them missing to your microchip database and local vets/shelters.
The chip ID leads to your contact details on the database for quick reunification.
No, only authorized organisations (e.g. vets, councils) can access your data.
Some may, as a condition for keeping pets in rental housing.
Ask your vet to scan the chip and help you locate the database.
It’s unnecessary. If there's an issue, a vet may recommend re-chipping.
No. Microchipping is about ID; licensing may be separate depending on your region.
Veterinarians and trained, qualified professionals.