How does cat microchipping work? - briefly
Microchipping is a quick and painless procedure where a small chip, about the size of a grain of rice, is inserted under your cat's skin, typically between the shoulder blades. This chip contains a unique identification number that can be scanned to retrieve contact information stored in a pet recovery database, helping to reunite lost cats with their owners.
How does cat microchipping work? - in detail
Microchipping is a straightforward and effective method of identifying and tracking pets, including cats. The process involves implanting a small device under the skin of the animal, which can be scanned to retrieve vital information. Here’s an in-depth look at how cat microchipping works:
The microchip itself is a tiny transponder, approximately the size of a grain of rice, encased in biocompatible glass or polymer. It contains a unique identification number that can be read using a specialized scanner. The chip is typically implanted between the cat’s shoulder blades, where it remains for the pet's lifetime without causing discomfort or interfering with its daily activities.
The microchipping procedure is quick and relatively painless. A veterinarian uses a hypodermic needle to inject the microchip under the skin of the cat. The process is similar to giving a routine vaccination, and it requires no anesthesia or surgery. Once implanted, the microchip becomes an integral part of the pet's identification system.
After the chip is inserted, the veterinarian registers the unique identification number with a national or international registry. This registration process is crucial as it links the microchip to the cat’s owner and their contact information. In case the cat gets lost or found by someone else, any authorized person—such as an animal shelter worker, veterinarian, or pet rescue volunteer—can scan the chip using a universal scanner to retrieve the identification number.
Once the identification number is obtained, it can be used to look up the owner's information in the registry database. This allows for quick and efficient reunification of lost cats with their owners. It is essential for cat owners to keep their contact information updated in the registry to ensure that they can be reached promptly if their pet goes missing.
Microchipping is a reliable and widely accepted method of pet identification, with a success rate significantly higher than traditional collar tags alone. While collars can fall off or become damaged, microchips provide permanent identification that cannot be removed or altered. Additionally, many animal shelters and veterinary clinics routinely scan found animals for microchips as part of their standard procedure, enhancing the chances of a lost cat being identified and returned to its owner.
In conclusion, cat microchipping is an effective and long-lasting solution for pet identification. By implanting a tiny transponder under the skin, linking it to a registry database, and ensuring that contact information is kept up to date, owners can significantly increase the likelihood of being reunited with their beloved pets should they ever go missing.