Cat Microchipping Law in England
Quick answer
Since 10 June 2024, cat owners in England must have their cat microchipped before it is 20 weeks old, and keep their contact details up to date on an approved microchipping database. Owners who do not comply can face a fine of up to £500. Indoor cats are included. Free-living cats with little or no human contact, such as farm, feral or community cats, are exempt. Dog microchipping was already compulsory.
From GOV.UK. Not veterinary or financial advice. Worried about your pet now?
On this page (6 sections)
What the law says
- Since: 10 June 2024, in England.
- When: before the cat is 20 weeks old.
- Details: your contact details must be stored and kept up to date on an approved pet microchipping database.
- Penalty: a fine of up to £500 for owners who do not comply.
Source: GOV.UK, Cat microchipping now mandatory.
Which cats, and exemptions
Indoor cats are included. The government says free-living cats with little or no human contact or dependency, such as farm, feral or community cats, are exempt. Source: GOV.UK, Cat microchipping now mandatory.
Moved house or changed number?
A chip only helps if the details on it are current. Update the database whenever you move or change phone number. If your pet goes missing: make a lost pet poster.
Dogs
Microchipping was already compulsory for dogs. The government says microchipped dogs are more than twice as likely to be reunited with their owners. Source: GOV.UK, Cat microchipping now mandatory.
Questions people ask
Is it a legal requirement to microchip a cat in England?
Yes. Since 10 June 2024 cats in England must be microchipped before 20 weeks old, with owner details kept up to date on an approved database.
What is the fine for not microchipping a cat?
Owners who do not comply can face a fine of up to £500, according to GOV.UK.
Do indoor cats need to be microchipped?
Yes. GOV.UK says indoor cats are included. Free-living cats with little or no human contact, such as farm, feral or community cats, are exempt.
Sources
- GOV.UK, Cat microchipping now mandatory, read 11 November 2026.
Related pages
New kitten: the first 30 days, cost of a kitten and everything for cat owners.