7 steps for updating your cat's microchip details

Every week, our vets treat scores of cats who have gone missing from home or been injured in accidents, many with out-of-date microchip information.

This situation is often heartbreaking, and can lead to cats being placed in rescue centres. A cat with outdated microchip information can be just as difficult to reunite with their owner as an unchipped cat.

Have you checked if your cat's microchip details are current? Maybe you've changed your phone number or moved house? Here’s a step-by-step guide to updating them:
 

1. Find your cat’s microchip number

Find your cat's 15-digit microchip number on a barcode on their microchip certificate. It may also be present on any pet insurance documents or animal health certificates you have. If you can’t find it, take them to your local vet practice or animal rescue centre to be scanned.

3. Contact databases

If the online lookup doesn't find your cat, you may need to contact the major UK microchip databases with the chip number to investigate further. You can find a list of all the government-approved databases here: www.gov.uk/get-your-dog-cat-microchipped

4. Update your details

Once you’ve found the correct database, update your contact details either online or by phone. You’ll need to provide your cat’s microchip number along with your new address, phone number, and any other required information.

5. Pay any necessary fees
 

You may need to pay a fee to update your details. For instance, Petlog charges £10 for a basic subscriber to change their address. Some databases also offer premium services that provide unlimited updates throughout your cat’s life.