Pet Care
Microchipping Your Pet in the UK — Dogs, Cats & Rabbits
Published Last updated 1 min read
Quick answer
UK dog owners must microchip their dog by 8 weeks and keep database details up to date. Cats are increasingly covered by UK law too. A microchip is not a GPS tracker — it identifies your pet when scanned by a vet or rescue centre.
How microchipping works
A rice-grain-sized chip sits under the skin. When scanned, it shows a unique number linked to your contact details on a UK database. Implantation is quick — similar to a vaccination.
Legal requirements
| Pet | UK requirement |
|---|---|
| Dogs | Compulsory; must be registered before sale/transfer |
| Cats | Mandatory in England (check Wales/Scotland rules) |
| Rabbits | Recommended; enables reunion if escaped |
Keep proof of registration and know which database holds your record.
Keeping details current
Update within 21 days of moving home or changing phone number. Failure to keep dog chip details current can result in fines in England.
If your pet is lost
Report to the database, local vets, and rescue centres. Many scanners are held by dog wardens and charities.
Sources & further reading
Facts in this guide are rewritten in plain English from publicly available UK advice. We name the organisation where a specific point comes from their guidance. Links below go to the original pages — use them to read the source material directly.
PETHEALTH+ is independent. These organisations do not sponsor, approve, or partner with this website. Guidance checked against sources listed below (last updated 2026-06-25).
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is microchipping compulsory in the UK?
- Microchipping is legally required for dogs in England, Scotland and Wales. Cats will be required in England from June 2024 legislation — check current rules in your nation. Rabbits are strongly recommended though not always mandated.
- How do I update my microchip details?
- Contact the UK database your chip is registered with — not the chip maker. Update phone numbers and address whenever you move. Out-of-date details are the main reason lost pets are not reunited.
- Who can implant a microchip?
- A trained veterinary professional or qualified implanter. The BVA recommends chips linked to a UK-compliant database and implanted under veterinary supervision.