Support for a Single Microchip Database for Cats & Dogs

Why a Single Microchip Database Matters

Pets4Homes strongly supports the petition for a single, centralised database for microchipped cats and dogs in the UK. Currently, microchipping is compulsory only for dogs, and while microchips are widely used to identify pets, multiple unlinked databases mean registration details can be missed, delaying reunions of lost pets with their owners. Additionally, scanning microchips is optional in many cases, which limits effectiveness.

Creating one consolidated database would provide a trusted, government-approved source accessible to vets, shelters, and authorities, ensuring a lost pet’s data is quickly found and verified. It would also help increase transparency for people rehoming dogs and cats by verifying sellers’ legitimacy. This petition aims to make scanning mandatory and cat microchipping compulsory, closing gaps in current legislation for better animal welfare.

The Current Regulatory Landscape and Challenges

At present, while dog microchipping is required by law, cats are not included in this regulation, despite many cats going missing or being rehomed irresponsibly. Because there are more than a dozen separate microchip databases in operation, vets or rescue centres may struggle to find a lost pet’s correct owner in a timely manner.

This fragmented system can also leave cats and dogs vulnerable to theft or fraud, with some databases not meeting required standards or having outdated information. The need for mandatory scanning at a pet’s first veterinary appointment would ensure microchip data is recorded and verified properly, preventing pets from slipping through the net.

Supporting Evidence and Advocacy Efforts

The petition has gathered strong public backing, pressing the UK government to reconsider existing policies. DEFRA has launched consultations seeking views on making cat microchipping compulsory and enforcing mandatory scanning of all microchipped pets. The proposal includes Fern’s Law, which calls for vets to legally scan pets at first presentation to better protect against the sale or theft of animals without proper identification.

Research studies, such as those undertaken by the University of Nottingham, underscore the benefits of a unified database, highlighting how it improves recovery rates and reduces administrative confusion. However, some organisations have expressed concerns about potential costs and data management challenges, but the general consensus is that pet welfare benefits greatly outweigh these hurdles.

How You Can Help

Responsible pet ownership means supporting measures that protect our cats and dogs. You can add your voice by signing the petition before the deadline on 12 April 2025 to urge Parliament to prioritise this important change. Visit the official petition site here to sign and promote the campaign.

Also, consider sharing your views during DEFRA’s consultation to influence policy for mandatory scanning and microchipping rules. Responses are accepted until 17 February 2025 and can be submitted through the DEFRA consultation portal here.

Responsible Microchipping and Rehoming Practices

As microchipping becomes more widespread and regulated, it's essential to use ethical and reputable reputable breeders and adoption centres that comply with microchip registration standards. This helps prevent pets from being lost or stolen and supports better trust in pet transactions.

Ensuring your pet is microchipped correctly and the information is kept up to date maximises the chances of recovering your pet should they ever become lost. Regularly check your details with your microchip provider and notify the database of any changes.

Conclusion

A unified microchipping database for cats and dogs combined with mandatory scanning offers a practical and vital step to safeguarding the welfare of pets across the UK. By supporting the current petition and participating in consultations, pet owners and advocates can drive legislative improvements that make it easier to reunite lost pets with their owners and reduce suffering.

Together, responsible ownership and strong regulatory oversight can create a safer environment for our beloved animals.