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Entry 610Filed under Breeding

How to Update Your Cat’s Microchip Details After Moving or Changing Phone Numbers

Moved or changed phone numbers? Update the contact record held by the database linked to your cat’s microchip number.
2-minute read By Animalso Team

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To update your cat’s microchip details, change the contact record held by the database linked to the chip number. In the UK, GOV.UK says to contact the database company; you’ll need the microchip number to find the right record. You do not need a new implant just because you moved or changed your phone number.

1. Find your cat’s microchip number

Check the microchip certificate or your veterinary records. If you cannot find the number, ask your vet whether it is on file or arrange for your cat to be scanned. GOV.UK also lists a dog warden or rescue centre as possible places to ask for a scan. GOV.UK guidance and Cats Protection’s microchipping advice describe these ways to find the number.

2. Find out which database holds the record

Use the chip number with a database lookup route available in your country. For UK cats, Cats Protection points owners to an identi lookup tool. Do not assume the record is held by a particular company: identify the registry associated with your cat’s chip before trying to change anything.

3. Change your address and phone number

Contact the database company through its official website or telephone channel and follow its instructions to update the record. GOV.UK specifically advises owners to contact the database to update their details and notes that a fee may apply; check the registry’s current terms rather than assuming a fixed price.

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Update other fields the database offers, such as email address or an emergency contact, if they are relevant. The available fields and account process depend on the registry.

4. Confirm the record was updated

After submitting the changes, sign in again or contact the registry to check that the new details are saved against the correct microchip number. There is no single confirmation method established across all databases, so use the method offered by the registry you contacted.

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If you cannot access the account or the chip cannot be read

  • Account access problem: Ask the database company about its account-recovery or identity-check process, and what evidence it needs before changing the record.
  • Chip does not scan: Consult a vet. A chip that cannot be read is a separate issue from updating contact details; GOV.UK’s guidance for bringing a pet to Great Britain addresses chip readability in the travel context.

Moving home or changing a phone number does not, by itself, mean your cat needs another implant. The update is to the database record associated with the existing number.

Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

UK rules and other countries

The practical steps here are UK-focused. GOV.UK says owners are responsible for keeping a pet’s microchip information up to date, including after a move. The procedure and legal obligations can differ in other countries, so check the relevant local authority and registry rather than assuming the UK process applies.

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In England, the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs said the cat microchipping requirement came into force on 10 June 2024: owners must ensure cats are microchipped before 20 weeks and keep contact details current in an approved database. This is England-specific legal context, not a worldwide rule. See the DEFRA announcement.

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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

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