Microchipping is the most effective and safe way to identify a lost or stolen cat to reunite them with their owners.
The Scottish Government’s Code of Practice for the Welfare of Cats recommends that all responsible cat owners should consider microchipping their pets. However, we know this isn’t happening as over 235,000 (28%) of pet cats in Scotland remain without a microchip.
Compulsory microchipping of pet cats has become law in England, but cats in Scotland are not yet protected by this legal requirement.
When a lost or stolen cat is found, multiple databases may have to be searched before the owners' details can be identified.
If a cat is found injured, microchipping can help a vet contact an owner if emergency care is needed. This helps owned cats receive the right treatment quickly.
Microchipping also supports the reintroduction of the Scottish wildcat and humane feral cat population control. When a local pet cat is microchipped it helps to quickly distinguish them from owned cats meaning trap, neuter, vaccinate and return (TNVR) programmes can be carried out without delay.
In January 2025, the Scottish Animal Welfare Commission, an advisory to the Scottish Government, recommended introducing compulsory microchipping of owned cats in Scotland.
Join Cats Protection in calling for compulsory microchipping and a single point of search to be introduced in Scotland.
