SPCA cats are now microchipped!
Cats that are adopted from the SPCA are now microchipped. Microchips are tiny implants (the size of a rice grain) that are inserted under an animal’s skin. This painless procedure is performed by a veterinarian. Microchips contain a unique code that allows each animal to be identified with a special scanner. This code is registered on a database together with the owner’s contact details.
Microchips work as a security feature for your pet. The SPCA and AVA scan incoming animals for microchips. This means a microchipped pet that goes missing and is taken in by SPCA or AVA stands a higher chance of being reunited with its owner.
We are currently absorbing the cost of microchipping cats adopted from SPCA. Our adoption fees remain at $50 for male cats and $65 for female cats.
Advantages of Microchipping
The SPCA receives many lost pets each month. Due to the fact we have limited space in which to keep these animals, it is only possible to keep them for a limited period of time.
Lost pets that have a registered microchip implanted in them mean that we can trace their owners faster.
Does Microchipping hurt the animal?
No, a veterinarian carries out the process in much the same way as a vaccination is given. The microchip, which is of a similar size and shape as a grain of rice, is injected under the skin of the animals, usually in the neck area. Once in place neither you nor your pet will be able to feel or notice it.
How is the microchip detected?
Most veterinarians and SPCA carry a scanner, which will detect if a microchip is present when passed over the animal. If there is a microchip present a number unique to that chip will be displayed on the scanner's screen.
Does the SPCA routinely scan all animals brought to them for microchips?
Yes, every lost animal brought into the SPCA is scanned for a microchip.
Why is a collar and tag not sufficient?
From our experience collars are often lost or removed while the animal is straying, especially in the case of cats. It is recommended that microchipped dogs still wear a collar with their licence tag attached, as this is an added visual indication that the animal is owned and not a stray.
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