How to find out if a cat is microchipped? - briefly
To determine if a cat is microchipped, you can use a universal scanner available at most veterinary clinics or animal shelters. Alternatively, a vet can check using their own scanner during a routine visit.
How to find out if a cat is microchipped? - in detail
To determine whether a cat has been microchipped, follow these detailed steps:
-
Visual Inspection: Begin by carefully examining the cat for any signs of a microchip implant. Microchips are typically inserted between the cat's shoulder blades, so look for a small lump or indentation in this area. It should feel like a small, firm pea beneath the skin.
-
Feel for the Microchip: Gently palpate the area between the cat's shoulder blades with your fingertips. You may need to part the fur to get a better feel. The microchip should be easily detectable if it is present, as it is encapsulated in a small glass tube.
-
Use a Scanner: If you cannot visually or manually detect the microchip, use a microchip scanner. These devices are widely available and can be found at veterinary clinics, animal shelters, and pet supply stores. Place the scanner over the cat's shoulder blades and move it slowly across the area. The scanner will beep or display a message if it detects a microchip.
-
Contact Veterinary Services: If you do not have access to a microchip scanner, contact your local veterinarian. They can scan the cat for you and provide the microchip number if one is present. Alternatively, visit an animal shelter or rescue organization that offers free microchip scanning services.
-
Check Registration Databases: Once you have the microchip number, check it against national or international databases to find out if it has been registered. In many countries, there are centralized registries that maintain records of microchipped pets and their owners' contact information. Examples include Petlog in the UK and the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) Universal Pet Microchip Lookup Tool in the US.
-
Contact the Registered Owner: If the microchip number is registered, you will be able to retrieve the owner's contact information from the database. Reach out to the owner to inform them that their cat has been found and provide them with your contact details so they can arrange for its return.
By following these steps, you should be able to determine whether a cat is microchipped and take appropriate action to reunite it with its owner if necessary.