Why a dedicated awareness month
England's compulsory cat microchipping law came into force on 10 June 2024. Research by Cats Protection estimated that — even before the law — around 2.9 million owned cats in the UK were unchipped. With legislation now in place, the welfare sector is prioritising compliance support over the remainder of 2026.
The awareness month also addresses a less-visible problem: cats that are chipped but not correctly registered. A chip is only useful if the database record is accurate. A 2024 survey found that around 20% of registered cats had out-of-date owner contact details — meaning even microchipped cats can end up going unreturned after loss.
For a full explanation of what the law requires, see our news article on the cat microchipping law update.
How to check your cat's chip status
Use the Check-a-Chip lookup tool to search across all Defra-approved UK databases using your cat's chip number. You will need to know the chip number — your vet will have this on record. If any contact detail has changed since the original registration, log in to the relevant database and update it directly.
Finding a subsidised microchipping clinic
During November, Cats Protection branches and RSPCA centres run reduced-cost or free microchipping events. To find one near you:
- Check the Cats Protection branch finder for local events
- Search RSPCA centre events for clinics in your area
- Ask your regular vet — many practices offer a discounted rate during awareness month
Outside these events, standard vet fees for microchipping are typically £20–£40, and it can be done at the same appointment as a vaccination booster. See our cat vaccinations guide to check whether boosters are also due.
Using the month to do a full health check
November is a natural moment to review your cat's overall health admin alongside microchip compliance. Consider:
- Vaccination booster due dates — see the vaccination schedule
- Whether your cat's weight is appropriate — use our feeding calculator
- Any behavioural or physical changes worth raising at the next vet visit — see the signs to call the vet guide
New cat or kitten? If you are getting a kitten this month, check that the breeder or rescue has had the kitten chipped before 20 weeks. If not, it is your responsibility as the new owner to have it done and registered immediately. Our kitten's first week home guide covers what to arrange in the first 72 hours.