Can I find a cat by microchip? - briefly
Yes, you can locate a cat by its microchip. Microchips are designed to be scanned by veterinarians or animal shelters, which can then trace the cat back to its registered owner using a unique identification number.
Can I find a cat by microchip? - in detail
Microchipping is a common and effective method used to identify and locate pets, including cats. A microchip is a small, rice-grain-sized device that is implanted under the skin of the animal, typically between the shoulder blades. This procedure is usually done by a veterinarian and is considered safe and relatively painless. The microchip contains a unique identification number that can be scanned by a microchip reader, providing access to the pet's registration information.
When a cat is lost, the microchip can be instrumental in reuniting the pet with its owner. Here is a detailed process of how this works:
-
Implantation: The microchip is implanted under the cat's skin, usually during a routine veterinary visit. The procedure is quick and involves minimal discomfort for the cat.
-
Registration: After implantation, the microchip is registered with a pet recovery service. The owner provides their contact information and details about the cat, which are linked to the microchip's unique ID number. This step is crucial as it ensures that the microchip can be traced back to the owner.
-
Loss of the Cat: If the cat goes missing, the owner should immediately notify the pet recovery service and local animal shelters. They should also inform neighbors and use social media to spread the word.
-
Scanning: When a lost cat is found, animal shelters, veterinarians, and sometimes good Samaritans will scan the cat for a microchip using a handheld scanner. This scanner reads the unique ID number from the microchip.
-
Contacting the Owner: The ID number is then entered into a database, which matches it to the owner's registration information. The pet recovery service will then contact the owner to inform them that their cat has been found.
-
Reunion: The owner can then arrange to pick up their cat from the location where it was found, typically an animal shelter or veterinary clinic.
It is important to note that the microchip itself does not have GPS tracking capabilities. It relies on the cat being scanned by a reader to retrieve the stored information. Therefore, it is essential for owners to keep their contact information up-to-date with the pet recovery service to ensure a smooth reunification process.
In summary, while a microchip does not actively track the cat's location, it serves as a permanent form of identification that can significantly increase the chances of a lost cat being returned to its owner. Regular check-ups with the veterinarian and updating registration details are key practices to maintain the effectiveness of the microchip.