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Many people unaware of new cat microchipping law
The new law will require all pet cats in England to be microchipped after they reach 20 weeks of age.
RSPCA issues warning to cat owners about new microchipping legislation.

According to RSPCA research conducted at the end of May, 47 per cent of adults in England are not aware of the new cat microchipping law that comes into force from 10 June 2024.

The charity is warning pet owners that if they are found not to have microchipped their cat, they will have 21 days to get one implanted or risk facing a fine of £500.

The new legislation was announced in March and requires all pet cats in England to be microchipped after they reach 20 weeks of age. Owners will also be required to keep their contact details up-to-date on a pet microchipping database. The new law does not apply to unowned or feral cats.

The charity has also reported that 83 per cent of cats brought into its animal centres in England and Wales in 2022 were not microchipped. 

Samantha Watson, scientific officer at the RSPCA said: “Microchipping is an absolutely essential component of being a responsible pet owner. This new law means that lost cats can be easily identified and reunited with their owners, rather than being handed to rehoming charities who are struggling with overflowing waiting lists. 

“We are hopeful that alongside increasing the number of lost or injured cats reunited with their owners, the new law will help to tackle other common welfare issues for cats, including abandonments.”

The RSPCA’s survey showed that the new microchipping law is supported by the majority of the public, with 75 per cent of adults in England agreeing that the legislation is a positive development for cat welfare. 

The charity is hopeful that Wales will follow England and introduce compulsory microchipping for cats. 

Ms Watson said: “Seven in ten adults in Wales agree that mandatory microchipping would improve cat welfare in Wales.  

“Which goes to show the public are heavily in favour of introducing microchipping laws, it’s just down to the Welsh government now to take action.”

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.