What does a microchip look like in a cat? - briefly
A microchip for cats is tiny, typically about the size of a grain of rice. It is usually implanted between the shoulder blades just under the skin.
What does a microchip look like in a cat? - in detail
A microchip in a cat is a small, encapsulated device designed to be implanted under the skin for identification purposes. The typical microchip used in cats measures approximately 12 millimeters in length and 2.12 millimeters in diameter, about the size of a large grain of rice. It consists of a glass capsule containing a tiny transponder (a small radio transmitter) and an antenna. The microchip does not have a battery; instead, it is passively activated by the scanner's low-frequency radio waves.
The implantation process involves injecting the microchip under the loose skin between the cat's shoulder blades using a specially designed applicator. Once inserted, the microchip remains in place, embedded within a small pocket of tissue created during the injection. The device is not visible from the outside and does not cause any discomfort to the cat once it has healed.
The microchip itself contains a unique identification number that can be read using a compatible scanner. This number is linked to the owner's contact information in a pet recovery database, allowing lost cats to be reunited with their owners more efficiently. The entire process of implanting and reading the microchip is quick and painless for both the cat and the owner, providing a reliable means of identification and aiding in the safe return of pets.