Microchipping for Dogs and Cats: Procedure, Registration, and Benefits

Microchipping provides a permanent identification method for dogs and cats that cannot be lost, removed, or become illegible like collars and tags. A microchip is a small electronic device about the size of a grain of rice that is implanted under the skin between the shoulder blades. When a lost pet is found and taken to a veterinary clinic or animal shelter, staff use a handheld scanner to read the microchip's unique identification number. That number is linked to the owner's contact information in a national registry database. For microchipping to work effectively, the owner must register the microchip with accurate contact details and keep that information updated whenever they move or change phone numbers. This article explains the microchipping procedure, how registration works, the benefits over traditional identification methods, and what steps to take if a pet becomes lost.

At a Glance

How Microchips Work

A pet microchip is a passive radio-frequency identification (RFID) device. It contains no battery and remains inactive until a scanner passes over it. The scanner emits a low-frequency radio wave that powers the microchip, which then transmits its unique identification number back to the scanner. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) provides resources explaining that microchips are designed to last the lifetime of the pet and do not require replacement or maintenance (AVMA Pet Owner Resources, https://www.avma.org/resources/pet-owners).

The microchip itself is encased in biocompatible glass that is designed to be compatible with the animal's body tissue. The chip contains a small microcircuit and an antenna coil. When the scanner activates the chip, the antenna transmits the identification number. This technology is distinct from GPS tracking devices, which require batteries and active transmission. Microchips do not provide real-time location tracking, they only store and transmit an identification number when scanned.

The frequency of microchips used in companion animals varies by region. In most countries, the standard frequency is 125 kHz or 134.2 kHz. Universal scanners available at most veterinary clinics and shelters can read multiple frequencies. The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) addresses animal identification and traceability as part of its animal health and welfare standards (WOAH Animal Health and Welfare, https://www.woah.org/en/what-we-do/animal-health-and-welfare).

The Microchipping Procedure

Implantation Process

The microchipping procedure is straightforward and typically takes only a few seconds. A veterinarian or trained veterinary technician performs the implantation. The microchip comes pre-loaded in a sterile applicator syringe. The animal is positioned comfortably, and the skin between the shoulder blades is gently lifted. The needle is inserted under the skin, and the plunger is depressed to deposit the microchip. The needle is then withdrawn, and the site is briefly massaged to ensure the chip settles properly.

Most animals tolerate the procedure well. The needle size is comparable to that used for routine vaccinations. Some animals may flinch or show mild discomfort, but sedation is rarely necessary. The AVMA notes that microchipping is a safe procedure with minimal risk when performed by a trained professional (AVMA Pet Owner Resources, https://www.avma.org/resources/pet-owners).

Pain Management and Animal Welfare

The procedure causes a brief moment of discomfort similar to a vaccination injection. No anesthesia or sedation is required for most dogs and cats. However, for animals that are particularly anxious, fractious, or have a low pain threshold, the veterinarian may recommend mild sedation. This decision should be made on a case-by-case basis.

Owners should observe their pet for a few minutes after implantation to ensure there is no excessive bleeding or signs of distress. The injection site may be slightly tender for a day or two, but this typically resolves without intervention. If the animal shows signs of persistent pain, swelling, or infection at the implantation site, the owner should contact their veterinarian.

Post-Procedure Care

After microchipping, the animal can resume normal activities immediately. There are no restrictions on exercise, bathing, or interaction with other animals. The implantation site should be kept clean and dry for 24 hours. Owners should check the site daily for any signs of redness, swelling, or discharge. These signs are uncommon but warrant veterinary attention if they occur.

The microchip may migrate slightly from the original implantation site over time. This is a known phenomenon and does not affect the chip's function. However, if the chip moves to an unusual location, it may be more difficult for a scanner to detect. The Merck Veterinary Manual provides general guidance on companion animal procedures and health management (Merck Veterinary Manual, https://www.merckvetmanual.com/).

Microchip Registration

Why Registration Matters

Implanting the microchip is only the first step. The chip itself contains no owner information. It only stores a unique identification number. For that number to be useful, it must be registered in a national database along with the owner's name, address, phone number, and alternative contact information. Without registration, a scanned microchip is essentially useless because there is no way to connect the number to the owner.

The AVMA emphasizes that microchip registration is critical for reuniting lost pets with their owners (AVMA Pet Owner Resources, https://www.avma.org/resources/pet-owners). Many shelters and veterinary clinics report that a significant number of microchipped animals brought in as strays have unregistered chips or outdated contact information. This defeats the purpose of microchipping.

How to Register

Registration is typically done online or by mail through the microchip manufacturer's registry or a third-party national registry. The process requires the following information:

• Microchip number (found on the implantation certificate or provided by the veterinarian)
• Pet's name, species, breed, color, and sex
• Owner's full name, address, phone number, and email address
• Alternative contact person (optional but recommended)

The owner should receive a confirmation of registration. This confirmation should be kept in a safe place along with the microchip number. Some registries charge a one-time fee, while others require an annual subscription. Owners should verify the fee structure before registering.

Keeping Registration Updated

Updating registration information is as important as the initial registration. When an owner moves, changes phone numbers, or gives the pet to a new owner, the registry must be notified immediately. Most registries allow updates online or by phone. Some charge a small fee for updates.

Owners should review their registration information at least once per year. A good practice is to check the registration when the pet receives its annual veterinary examination. The veterinarian can scan the microchip to confirm it is still functional and that the number matches the registration records.

Common Registration Mistakes

Several common errors reduce the effectiveness of microchip registration:

• Failing to register the chip after implantation
• Entering incorrect microchip numbers during registration
• Using outdated contact information
• Not providing an alternative contact person
• Registering with a defunct or non-responsive registry

Owners should double-check the microchip number on the registration form against the number on the implantation certificate. A single digit error can make the chip untraceable.

Benefits Over Collars and Tags

Permanent Identification

Collars and tags can fall off, break, or be removed. A microchip is implanted under the skin and cannot be lost. This provides a permanent identification method that lasts the lifetime of the pet. The AVMA notes that microchips are a reliable form of identification that does not depend on the pet wearing a collar (AVMA Pet Owner Resources, https://www.avma.org/resources/pet-owners).

No Maintenance Required

Unlike collars that need to be replaced when worn or tags that become illegible, microchips require no maintenance. They have no batteries to replace and no parts that wear out. Once implanted and registered, the chip remains functional indefinitely.

Works When Collars Are Missing

Many lost pets are found without collars. A cat may slip out of a breakaway collar, or a dog's collar may snag on something and come off. In these situations, a microchip is the only form of identification. Shelters and veterinary clinics routinely scan all stray animals for microchips. If the chip is registered, the owner can be contacted quickly.

Not a Replacement for Visible ID

Microchips are not a replacement for collars and tags. Visible identification allows anyone who finds a lost pet to contact the owner immediately without needing a scanner. The AVMA recommends that pets wear collars with identification tags in addition to being microchipped (AVMA Pet Owner Resources, https://www.avma.org/resources/pet-owners). The combination of visible and permanent identification provides the best chance of a quick reunion.

Lost Pet Recovery Process

What Happens When a Microchipped Pet Is Found

When a lost pet is taken to a veterinary clinic or animal shelter, staff use a handheld scanner to check for a microchip. The scanner is passed over the animal's shoulders and down both sides of the body. If a chip is detected, the scanner displays the unique identification number.

The staff then contacts the microchip registry associated with that chip number. The registry provides the owner's contact information on file. The shelter or clinic then calls the owner to arrange for the pet's return. If the owner cannot be reached, the registry may have an alternative contact person listed.

Owner's Role in Recovery

Owners can take several steps to improve the chances of a successful reunion:

• Keep registration information current
• Notify the registry immediately if the pet goes missing
• Contact local shelters and veterinary clinics to report the lost pet
• Provide the microchip number to shelters so they can flag the animal in their systems
• Post on social media and community lost pet pages

The AVMA provides resources for pet owners on what to do if a pet is lost (AVMA Pet Owner Resources, https://www.avma.org/resources/pet-owners). Acting quickly increases the likelihood of a reunion.

Timeframe for Recovery

The time it takes to reunite a lost microchipped pet with its owner varies. In ideal circumstances, the pet is scanned within hours of being found, the registry has current contact information, and the owner answers the phone. The reunion can happen the same day.

Delays occur when the chip is not registered, the registration information is outdated, or the owner does not respond to calls. In some cases, the shelter may hold the animal for a mandated stray hold period before attempting to contact the owner again or placing the animal for adoption.

Practical Implementation Steps for Owners

Step 1: Schedule Microchipping

Contact a veterinarian to schedule a microchipping appointment. Many veterinary clinics offer microchipping as a standalone service or as part of a wellness visit. The procedure is quick and does not require special preparation.

Step 2: Verify the Microchip Number

After implantation, the veterinarian will provide a certificate or sticker with the microchip number. Verify that the number on the certificate matches the number on the packaging. Some veterinarians scan the chip immediately after implantation to confirm it is functioning and to read the number.

Step 3: Register the Microchip

Complete the registration process as soon as possible after implantation. Use the information provided by the veterinarian to access the registry website or mail in the registration form. Enter all required fields accurately. Keep a copy of the registration confirmation.

Step 4: Update Registration Annually

Set a reminder to review and update registration information at least once per year. A convenient time is during the pet's annual veterinary examination. Ask the veterinarian to scan the chip to confirm it is still readable and that the number matches the registration.

Step 5: Use Collar and Tags

Continue to have the pet wear a collar with identification tags. Include the pet's name, owner's phone number, and a note that the pet is microchipped. This provides visible identification that anyone can use to contact the owner.

Records and Measurements

What Records to Keep

Owners should maintain the following records related to microchipping:

• Microchip implantation certificate with chip number
• Registration confirmation with registry name and contact information
• Date of implantation
• Veterinarian who performed the procedure
• Any updates to registration information

These records should be kept in a safe place that is accessible in an emergency. Digital copies stored in a secure cloud service or emailed to oneself can be helpful if the physical documents are lost.

Verifying Microchip Function

Veterinarians can scan the microchip during routine visits to confirm it is still functioning. The scan should produce the same identification number that was originally registered. If the scanner does not detect the chip, the veterinarian may try different positions or a different scanner. In rare cases, the chip may have migrated to a location where it is difficult to detect.

If a microchip cannot be detected, the owner should discuss options with the veterinarian. In some cases, an X-ray may be used to locate the chip. If the chip is confirmed to be non-functional, the veterinarian may recommend implanting a new chip.

Registry Verification

Owners can contact the microchip registry to verify that their information is current. Some registries offer online portals where owners can log in and view their registration details. Others require a phone call or email. Owners should confirm that the registry is still active and responsive.

Common Failure Patterns

Unregistered Microchips

The most common failure is failure to register the microchip after implantation. Owners may assume that the veterinarian handles registration, or they may misplace the registration paperwork. Without registration, the chip is useless for identification.

Outdated Contact Information

Owners who move or change phone numbers without updating the registry render their microchip ineffective. Shelters may have current contact information for the owner but cannot reach them because the phone number is disconnected or the address is wrong.

Microchip Migration

Microchips can migrate from the original implantation site. This is more common in cats than dogs. If the chip moves to a location that is not routinely scanned, it may be missed. Shelters and clinics are trained to scan the entire body, but migration can still cause detection issues.

Scanner Incompatibility

Not all scanners read all microchip frequencies. While universal scanners are becoming more common, some older scanners may not detect certain chips. This is less of a problem in regions where a single frequency standard is used, but it can be an issue when traveling internationally.

Registry Closure

Microchip registries can go out of business or be acquired by other companies. If the registry that holds the owner's information closes, the microchip number may no longer be traceable. Owners should verify that their registry is stable and consider using a national registry that is widely recognized.

Limitations and Safety Context

Not a GPS Tracker

Microchips do not provide real-time location tracking. They only store an identification number that can be read when the animal is found and scanned. Owners who want to track their pet's location in real time need a GPS tracking device, which requires a battery and a subscription service.

No Medical Information Storage

Standard pet microchips store only an identification number. They do not store medical records, vaccination history, or owner contact information directly on the chip. All owner information is held in the registry database. Some advanced microchips can store additional data, but this is not yet common in companion animal practice.

Rare Complications

Complications from microchip implantation are rare but can occur. These include:

• Infection at the implantation site
• Migration of the chip to an unusual location
• Rejection of the chip by the body (extremely rare)
• Breakage of the chip (very rare)

If any of these complications occur, the owner should consult a veterinarian. The Merck Veterinary Manual provides general information on companion animal health and procedures (Merck Veterinary Manual, https://www.merckvetmanual.com/).

Safety in Different Species

Microchipping is safe for dogs and cats of all ages, including puppies and kittens. The procedure is also used in other species such as horses, rabbits, and birds. The World Organisation for Animal Health addresses animal identification and traceability as part of its standards for animal health and welfare (WOAH Animal Health and Welfare, https://www.woah.org/en/what-we-do/animal-health-and-welfare).

Professional Escalation Criteria

When to Contact a Veterinarian

Owners should contact a veterinarian if:

• The implantation site shows signs of infection (redness, swelling, discharge, heat)
• The animal appears to be in persistent pain after the procedure
• The microchip cannot be detected during a routine scan
• The animal develops a lump or mass at the implantation site
• The owner suspects the chip has broken or is malfunctioning

When to Contact the Registry

Owners should contact the microchip registry if:

• They have moved or changed phone numbers
• They have given the pet to a new owner
• The pet has died (to remove the registration from the active database)
• They have lost the registration confirmation and need to verify their information
• They suspect the registry is no longer operational

When to Contact Animal Control or Shelters

Owners should contact local animal control and shelters if:

• Their pet is lost and they have reported it to the registry
• They have found a stray animal and want to have it scanned for a microchip
• They need to update their contact information with local authorities in case their pet is found

Decision Framework for Selecting a Microchip Registry and Managing Registration Across Multiple Pets

Choosing the correct microchip registry and maintaining accurate records across multiple animals requires a structured approach. Owners with more than one dog or cat face additional complexity because each animal has a unique microchip number that must be linked to the same owner contact information, often across different registries. A systematic decision framework helps owners avoid common registration failures and ensures that all microchipped animals in a household are traceable.

Registry Selection Criteria

Not all microchip registries operate with the same reliability, fee structure, or database accessibility. Owners should evaluate registries using the following criteria before completing registration.

Registry permanence and industry recognition. A registry that is widely used by veterinary clinics, animal shelters, and animal control agencies increases the likelihood that a scanned microchip will be traced to the owner. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) provides resources that help pet owners understand the importance of using a reputable registry that is accessible to shelters and veterinary practices (AVMA Pet Owner Resources, https://www.avma.org/resources/pet-owners). Owners should confirm that the registry is listed in the national database aggregator used by most shelters in their region.

Fee transparency and renewal structure. Some registries charge a one-time lifetime fee, while others require annual or multi-year subscriptions. Owners should read the fee schedule carefully before registering. A registry that charges a low initial fee but imposes high annual renewal costs may lead to lapsed registrations if the owner forgets to renew. The total cost of ownership over the pet's lifetime should be considered, beyond the initial registration fee.

Contact update process. The registry should allow owners to update their contact information online or by phone without excessive delay. Some registries charge a fee for each update, while others include updates in the subscription. Owners should verify that the update process is straightforward and that changes take effect immediately or within 24 hours.

Alternative contact person capability. A registry that allows the owner to list an alternative contact person provides a backup if the owner cannot be reached. This is particularly important for owners who travel frequently, work in areas with poor cell phone reception, or have health conditions that may prevent them from answering calls promptly.

Database accessibility for shelters and clinics. The registry should participate in a universal database that allows any shelter or veterinary clinic to look up the owner's contact information using the microchip number. Registries that are not part of such a network may be inaccessible to finders, rendering the microchip useless.

Multi-Pet Household Registration Strategy

Owners with multiple dogs or cats should implement a consistent registration strategy to avoid confusion and ensure all animals are properly documented.

Centralized record keeping. Maintain a single document or digital file that lists every animal in the household along with its microchip number, registry name, registration date, and contact information on file. This document should be stored in a location that is accessible in an emergency, such as a cloud-based file or a printed copy kept with the pet's medical records. The document should include the following columns for each animal:

• Pet name
• Species and breed
• Microchip number
• Date of implantation
• Registry name
• Registry contact information
• Date of last registration verification
• Alternative contact person name and phone number

Consistent owner information across registries. When registering multiple animals with different registries, the owner's name, address, and primary phone number must be identical across all registries. Inconsistencies in address formatting, name spelling, or phone number format can cause delays when a shelter attempts to contact the owner. Owners should use the same format for their address and phone number on every registration form.

Annual registry audit. Once per year, the owner should verify that every animal's microchip registration is current and that the contact information is accurate. This audit can be performed during the pet's annual veterinary examination. The veterinarian can scan each animal's microchip to confirm the number matches the registration records. The AVMA emphasizes that microchip registration is critical for reuniting lost pets with their owners (AVMA Pet Owner Resources, https://www.avma.org/resources/pet-owners). An annual audit ensures that registration information remains accurate.

Transfer protocol when acquiring a new pet. When adopting or purchasing a new dog or cat, the owner should obtain the microchip number from the previous owner or breeder and verify that the chip is registered. If the chip is already registered to the previous owner, the new owner must initiate a transfer of ownership with the registry. Some registries require the previous owner to authorize the transfer. The new owner should complete the transfer within 30 days of acquiring the animal and confirm that the registration now reflects their contact information.

Troubleshooting Registration Problems

Owners may encounter several common problems when registering microchips or attempting to verify existing registrations. The following troubleshooting steps address these issues.

Problem: The microchip number on the implantation certificate does not match the number read by the scanner. This discrepancy can occur if the veterinarian implanted a chip from a different package than the one documented on the certificate. The owner should ask the veterinarian to scan the chip in their presence and compare the displayed number to the certificate. If the numbers do not match, the veterinarian should provide a corrected certificate with the accurate microchip number. The owner should use the scanned number for registration, not the number on the original certificate.

Problem: The registry website does not recognize the microchip number. This can happen if the chip was manufactured by a company that uses a different registry than the one the owner is attempting to use. The owner should check the microchip packaging or ask the veterinarian which registry is associated with that manufacturer. Some manufacturers have exclusive agreements with specific registries. The owner should register with the correct registry for that chip brand.

Problem: The registry charges a fee that the owner was not expecting. Before completing registration, the owner should review the fee schedule on the registry's website. If the fee is higher than anticipated, the owner may choose to register with a different registry that accepts chips from that manufacturer. Some registries allow owners to transfer registration from one registry to another, though this may involve a fee. The owner should contact the registry's customer service to discuss options.

Problem: The owner cannot remember which registry was used for a previously implanted chip. The owner can contact the veterinarian who implanted the chip to obtain the registry information. Alternatively, the owner can take the animal to a veterinary clinic or shelter and ask them to scan the chip. The scanner may display the registry name or a phone number for the registry along with the microchip number. The owner can then contact that registry to verify the registration status.

Problem: The registry is no longer operational. If the registry that holds the owner's information has closed, the microchip number may no longer be traceable. The owner should contact the manufacturer of the microchip to determine if the registry was acquired by another company. If the registry cannot be revived, the owner should have a new microchip implanted and register it with a stable, widely recognized registry. The Merck Veterinary Manual provides general guidance on companion animal procedures and health management (Merck Veterinary Manual, https://www.merckvetmanual.com/).

Records and Measurements for Registry Management

Maintaining accurate records is essential for effective microchip registration across multiple pets. Owners should implement the following record-keeping system.

Physical record folder. Keep a dedicated folder for each animal that contains the microchip implantation certificate, registration confirmation, and any correspondence with the registry. The folder should be stored in a fireproof safe or another secure location. For multi-pet households, a single binder with dividers for each animal is practical.

Digital record system. Create a spreadsheet or database that includes all the information listed in the centralized record keeping section above. The digital file should be backed up to a cloud service and to a local hard drive. The owner should update the digital file immediately after any registration change.

Annual verification checklist. Use the following checklist during the annual registry audit:

• Scan each animal's microchip to confirm it is still functional
• Compare the scanned number to the number on the registration confirmation
• Log into each registry account and verify that the owner's name, address, and phone number are current
• Confirm that the alternative contact person's information is still accurate
• Verify that the registry is still operational and accessible
• Update any outdated information immediately

Registry contact information card. Create a small card that lists the microchip number and registry contact information for each animal. Keep this card in the owner's wallet or purse. If the animal is lost and the owner is away from home, the card provides immediate access to the information needed to report the animal missing.

Common Failure Patterns in Multi-Pet Households

Owners with multiple animals face specific failure patterns that are less common in single-pet households.

Confusion between microchip numbers. When multiple animals are microchipped, owners may accidentally register one animal's chip number under another animal's name. This error can be difficult to detect because the registry will show a registration, but the contact information will be linked to the wrong animal. If a shelter scans the animal and contacts the registry, the registry may provide the owner's information, but the shelter may not realize that the animal's name does not match the registration. The owner should verify that each animal's microchip number is registered under the correct name.

Inconsistent owner information across registries. If the owner uses different registries for different animals, the contact information may become inconsistent over time. For example, the owner may update their address with one registry but forget to update it with another. This inconsistency can cause delays if an animal registered with the outdated registry is found. The owner should update all registries simultaneously whenever contact information changes.

Failure to transfer registration when acquiring a new pet. Owners who adopt a microchipped animal from a shelter or rescue may assume that the registration is already complete. However, the chip may still be registered to the shelter or rescue organization. The owner must initiate a transfer of ownership with the registry to ensure that their contact information is linked to the chip. Without this transfer, the shelter or rescue will be contacted if the animal is lost, not the current owner.

Lapsed registration for one animal in a multi-pet household. If the owner uses a subscription-based registry, they may remember to renew the registration for one animal but forget to renew for another. The owner should set a single reminder for all animals registered with the same registry and verify that each animal's registration is current.

Professional Escalation Criteria for Registration Issues

Owners should seek professional assistance when they cannot resolve registration problems on their own.

Contact the veterinarian if: The microchip number on the certificate does not match the number read by the scanner, the chip cannot be detected during a scan, or the owner needs a new chip implanted because the original registry is no longer operational. The veterinarian can provide a corrected certificate, scan the chip to confirm the number, or implant a new chip.

Contact the registry customer service if: The owner cannot log into the registry account, the registry website does not recognize the microchip number, the owner needs to transfer ownership to a new owner, or the owner suspects that the registration information has been compromised. Registry customer service can reset passwords, verify chip numbers, process ownership transfers, and correct registration errors.

Contact a shelter or animal control agency if: The owner has lost a microchipped animal and needs to report the microchip number to local authorities, the owner has found a stray animal and wants to have it scanned, or the owner needs assistance verifying which registry is associated with a particular microchip number. Shelters and animal control agencies have universal scanners and can access multiple registries.

Contact the microchip manufacturer if: The registry associated with the chip has closed and the owner cannot determine if the registry was acquired by another company. The manufacturer can provide information about the current registry for that chip brand and may offer a replacement chip if the original registry is permanently unavailable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a pet microchip and how does it work?

A pet microchip is a small electronic device about the size of a grain of rice that is implanted under the skin. It contains a unique identification number that can be read by a handheld scanner. The chip is passive and has no battery. When a scanner passes over it, the chip is activated and transmits its identification number. That number is linked to the owner's contact information in a registry database.

Is microchipping painful for dogs and cats?

The microchipping procedure causes a brief moment of discomfort similar to a vaccination injection. The needle used is comparable in size to a standard vaccine needle. Most animals tolerate the procedure well without sedation. Some may flinch or show mild discomfort, but this resolves quickly. After the procedure, the site may be slightly tender for a day or two.

How do I register my pet's microchip?

Registration is typically done online or by mail through the microchip manufacturer's registry or a third-party national registry. You will need the microchip number, which is provided on the implantation certificate from your veterinarian. You will also need your contact information and your pet's details. Some registries charge a one-time fee, while others require an annual subscription.

What happens if I move or change my phone number?

You must update your registration information with the microchip registry as soon as possible after moving or changing phone numbers. Most registries allow updates online or by phone. Some charge a small fee for updates. Keeping your information current is essential for the microchip to work if your pet becomes lost.

Can a microchip track my pet's location in real time?

No. Microchips do not provide real-time location tracking. They only store an identification number that can be read when the animal is found and scanned by a compatible scanner. For real-time tracking, you would need a GPS tracking device, which requires a battery and a subscription service.

How long does a microchip last?

Microchips are designed to last the lifetime of the pet. They have no batteries and no moving parts. The chip is encased in biocompatible glass that is compatible with the animal's body tissue. Once implanted, the chip remains functional indefinitely. The AVMA notes that microchips are a reliable form of permanent identification (AVMA Pet Owner Resources, https://www.avma.org/resources/pet-owners).

What should I do if my pet is lost?

If your pet is lost, contact the microchip registry immediately to report the pet as missing. Notify local animal shelters, veterinary clinics, and animal control agencies. Provide them with your pet's microchip number and your contact information. Post on social media and community lost pet pages. The AVMA provides resources for pet owners on what to do if a pet is lost (AVMA Pet Owner Resources, https://www.avma.org/resources/pet-owners).

Can a microchip cause health problems in my pet?

Complications from microchip implantation are rare. The most common issues are minor and temporary, such as slight tenderness at the implantation site. Infection, migration, or rejection of the chip are uncommon. If you notice persistent pain, swelling, or discharge at the site, contact your veterinarian. The Merck Veterinary Manual provides general information on companion animal health (Merck Veterinary Manual, https://www.merckvetmanual.com/).

Related Veterinary Guides

• Cat
• Dog
• Pet Feeders For Cats
• How To Care For Senior Cats
• Preventive Care For Cats

References and Further Reading

• catvets.com
• www.avma.org
• Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck Veterinary Manual.
• Animal Health and Welfare. World Organisation for Animal Health.
• Polymer microchip impedance spectroscopy through two parallel planar embedded microelectrodes: Understanding the impedance contribution of the surrounding polymer on the measurement accuracy. Electrochimica Acta, 2013.
• Cat face recognition using deep learning. Asabe 2018 Annual International Meeting, 2018.
• Toward miniaturized analysis of chemical identity and purity of radiopharmaceuticals via microchip electrophoresis. Analytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry, 2018.
• Strategies for the improvement of pet health and welfare in Portugal based on a pilot survey on husbandry, opinion, and information needs. Animals, 2020.

This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis or treatment. Contact a veterinarian for advice about an individual animal.