Microchipping is one of the simplest and most important things you can do for your pet. It’s also the law. This guide covers the current legal requirements for dogs and cats in the UK as of 2026, including the newer cat microchipping regulations, penalties for non-compliance, and how to keep your details up to date.
Current Law: Dogs
- All dogs in England, Scotland, and Wales must be microchipped by 8 weeks of age
- Breeders are legally responsible for microchipping puppies before sale
- The breeder’s details must be registered as the first keeper
- When you buy/adopt a dog, you must update the microchip database with your own details — this is your responsibility
- Fine for non-compliance: up to £500
Current Law: Cats (England)
- Since June 2024, all cats in England must be microchipped by 20 weeks of age
- This is a newer regulation — many cat owners are still unaware
- Fine for non-compliance: up to £500
- Scotland and Wales: not yet mandatory for cats but recommended
Collar & Tag — Still Required
A microchip does not replace the legal requirement for a collar and tag:
- Dogs must wear a collar with a tag showing the owner’s name and address when in a public place (Control of Dogs Order 1992)
- Telephone number is not legally required on the tag but strongly recommended
- Exemptions exist for working dogs (e.g., gun dogs, guide dogs) while working
How to Update Your Microchip Details
- Find which database your pet is registered with (your vet can scan the chip to find the number)
- Visit the database website (common UK databases: Petlog, idENTICHIP, PetScanner, PetDatabase)
- Update your address, phone number, and emergency contact
- Update when you move house, change phone number, or if the pet changes owner
- Some databases charge a small fee for updates; others are free
FAQs
Does microchipping hurt?
The microchip is about the size of a grain of rice and is injected under the skin between the shoulder blades. It’s done with a slightly larger needle than a standard vaccination. Most puppies and kittens barely react — it’s over in seconds. No anaesthesia is needed. The chip is permanent and does not need replacing. It does not contain GPS or tracking — it is simply a unique identification number that is read by a scanner held over the animal.