Should I Microchip My Indoor-Only Cat?

December 8, 2021

Share this article

It’s tempting to think that you don’t need to microchip about your indoor cat. After all, a cat that doesn’t go outside isn’t likely to get away from you and get lost. In reality, there are several reasons why it’s a great idea to microchip your indoor-only cat.

1. It only takes a moment for a cat to slip outside.

Imagine that you’re holding the door open to sign for a package or take the pizza from the delivery driver. There’s a gunshot on the TV that startles your cat, and she bolts out the open door. It can happen that quickly. Or imagine that your kids run outside to play and don’t latch the door properly. A curious cat pushes the door open and slips outside, but no one sees it. How long might she be gone before someone realizes that she’s missing?

2. Collars and tags can get lost (if your cat has one at all).

Many indoor cats either don’t wear a collar or have a collar with only a bell or bow. Neither of those will help someone identify you as your cat’s owner. Even if your cat has ID tags, they are likely on a break-away collar, which is designed to come apart if it catches on something. (Your cat’s collar should be a break-away so he won’t accidentally strangle himself if the collar gets caught on something.) A lost collar means that the tags are lost as well. A microchip is permanent and doesn’t get lost.

3. Most cats that enter an animal shelter are never reunited with their owners.

According to a study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, less than 2% of cats entering a shelter are reunited with their owners. With a microchip, that goes up to 38% of the cats finding their way home. That’s a 2000 percent improvement.

4. Microchipping is quick and easy.

A microchip is a tiny device, smaller than a grain of rice, that is injected under your cat’s skin. The doctors at Andes-Straley Veterinary Hospital can implant a chip during an office visit, as it requires no anesthesia and takes no longer than a vaccination shot.

Once the microchip is implanted, don’t forget the most important step: updating your registration information if your address or contact details change. A microchip is meaningless if the registration doesn’t lead the person who found your cat back to you.

Visit Andes-Straley Vet  online for more information about if you should microchip your indoor-only cat or call us today at (423) 378-4443 to schedule an appointment.

Recent Posts

By premier December 27, 2024
As pet owners, we know our furry companions can’t tell us when they’re feeling unwell. That’s why it’s crucial to pay attention to subtle changes in their behavior, habits, or appearance that could indicate a health issue. At Andes Straley Veterinary Hospital, we’re here to help you identify those signs and ensure your pet gets […] The post When to Take Your Pet to the Vet: Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore appeared first on Andes-Straley.
By premier December 18, 2024
The holiday season is a time for celebration, family gatherings, and festive decorations, but it can also bring unique challenges for pet owners. At Andes Straley Veterinary Hospital, we want to ensure that your furry family members stay safe and happy throughout the season. From glittering ornaments to tempting holiday treats, here are some essential […] The post Holiday Safety Tips for Pets appeared first on Andes-Straley.
By premier December 11, 2024
When it comes to leaving your pet in someone else’s care, their safety and well-being are every pet owner’s top priorities. Whether you’re heading out of town for a vacation or a work trip, choosing the right boarding option is crucial. Boarding your pet at a veterinary facility, like Andes Straley Veterinary Hospital, offers unmatched […] The post Why Boarding at a Veterinary Facility is Safer for Your Pet appeared first on Andes-Straley.
By premier December 4, 2024
As temperatures drop, our pets need extra attention to ensure they stay safe and comfortable during the winter months. At Andes Straley Veterinary Hospital, we understand how much your furry friends mean to you, so we’ve put together essential tips for cold-weather pet care. 1. Protect Those Precious Paws Cold weather can be harsh on […] The post Keep Your Furry Friends Safe This Winter appeared first on Andes-Straley.
By premier November 26, 2024
Keeping pets active indoors can be a challenge, especially on rainy days or for those living in small spaces. However, regular exercise is crucial for pets’ health, helping to prevent weight gain, reduce stress, and keep their minds engaged. At Andes Straley Veterinary Hospital, we know that pets need exercise just as much as they […] The post Creative Exercise Ideas for Indoor Pets appeared first on Andes-Straley.
By premier November 20, 2024
As we gather with loved ones this Thanksgiving to celebrate and enjoy a delicious feast, it’s essential to remember that our pets may face some unexpected hazards around the holiday festivities. Keeping our pets safe during Thanksgiving requires a bit of planning and mindfulness, but it can make all the difference in ensuring a joyful […] The post Keeping Your Pets Safe During Thanksgiving appeared first on Andes-Straley.
By premier November 13, 2024
It’s natural to want to show your love for your pet through food and treats. After all, those excited tail wags and purrs of appreciation feel rewarding! However, what starts as a way to pamper your furry friend can lead to unintended consequences. Overfeeding, whether through large meal portions, too many treats, or “people food” […] The post The Dangers of Overfeeding appeared first on Andes-Straley.
By premier November 6, 2024
Matted fur can be an uncomfortable and potentially painful problem for dogs, especially for those with long or curly coats. Without regular care, matting can quickly get out of hand. This can cause discomfort, skin irritation, and even restricting movement if the matting becomes severe. At Andes Straley Veterinary Hospital, we’re here to help you […] The post Preventing and Treating Matted Fur appeared first on Andes-Straley.
By premier October 30, 2024
As the crisp autumn air settles in, it’s time to embrace the festive spirit of Halloween. While this holiday brings joy and excitement for many, it’s important to keep in mind that some Halloween traditions can pose risks to our furry friends. We’ll explore ways to ensure a safe and enjoyable Halloween for your pets, […] The post Halloween and Pets: Ensuring a Safe and Spooktacular Celebration appeared first on Andes-Straley.
By premier October 23, 2024
Did you know that one out of three pets becomes lost in their lifetime, according to the American Humane Association? Did you also know that over ten million cats and dogs are lost or stolen annually in the U.S? Out of these, only 23% get reunited with family. This is why a pet microchip is becoming […] The post Pet Microchip: A Guide to How It Works and Its Benefits appeared first on Andes-Straley.
Show More