How to Check and Update Your Cat’s Microchip Information

For many cat owners, few things are more terrifying than the thought of their kitty getting lost. While collars and ID tags provide visible identification, they can fall off or break. That’s where microchips come in, tiny devices implanted under your cat’s skin that provide permanent identification. But what happens when you need to update that information, or when life circumstances change?

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Why Microchip Information Matters

When a lost cat is found and taken to a veterinarian, animal shelter, or rescue organization, scanning for a microchip is typically the first step in reunification. The chip contains a unique identification number linked to a database with the owner’s contact information. However, if that information is outdated or belongs to someone who is no longer the cat’s caregiver, it can create serious complications.

How to Check Your Cat’s Microchip Information

Step 1: Scanning the Microchip

Your veterinarian can scan your cat’s microchip to determine:

• The unique chip number
• The manufacturer/brand of the chip
• Whether the chip is functioning properly

Most veterinary clinics, animal shelters, and even some pet stores have microchip scanners available. This service is typically free or very low-cost.

Step 2: Identify the Registration Company

Once you have the chip number, you can use online databases to identify which company manages the registration. The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) provides a helpful microchip lookup tool on its website that can tell you which company registered a particular chip.

Step 3: Access the Database

Different microchip companies have varying procedures for updating information:

• Some allow online updates through their websites
• Others require phone calls or written documentation
• Most charge a small fee for updates (typically $20-100)

Updating Microchip Information: What to Expect

For Straightforward Updates

If you’re simply updating your address or phone number on a chip already registered to you, the process is usually simple and can often be done online.

For Ownership Changes

When ownership has changed, companies typically require:

• Proof of ownership (veterinary records, adoption papers, bills of sale)
• Sometimes contact with the previous owner
• Documentation showing you’ve been caring for the animal

The Notification Process

Many microchip companies follow a standard procedure when ownership changes are requested:

• They contact the currently registered owner
• Provide a specific timeframe (often 30 days) for any objections
• If no response is received, they process the change

This safeguard exists to prevent pet theft, but it can create anxiety for legitimate owners in complicated situations.

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Alternative Solutions

Keep Current Information Visible: Always ensure your cat wears a collar with current contact information

Consider Re-chipping: In extreme cases where updating the original chip proves impossible, some veterinarians suggest implanting a new microchip. This is typically done during routine procedures when the cat is already sedated, such as dental cleanings.

Document Your Ownership

Maintain clear records of:

• Veterinary visits and payments
• Food and supply purchases
• Photos showing you with your cat over time
• Any communication about ownership

Prevention is Key

The best approach is to ensure microchip information stays current from the beginning:

• Register the chip immediately after implantation
• Update information whenever you move or change phone numbers
• Set annual reminders to verify your information is current
• Keep registration fees paid (many companies charge annual fees)

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The Bottom Line

Microchips are incredibly valuable tools for pet safety, but they’re only as good as the information they contain. Regular checks and updates ensure that if your beloved cat ever goes missing, they’ll find their way back to you, not to someone from their past.

Remember: your cat depends on you to keep their identification current. A few minutes spent updating microchip information could mean the difference between a happy reunion and heartbreak if your feline friend ever gets lost.