Indoor Cats Get Lost Too
Indoor Cats Get Lost, Too: Why Microchipping Matters
When we think about pets getting lost, we often picture a dog slipping through a gate or running away during a walk. But indoor cats can go missing, too—and because they aren’t accustomed to being outside, finding their way home may be especially difficult.
A door left open for just a moment can be all it takes. Visitors arrive, groceries are carried inside, repair workers come and go, or a curious cat simply sees an opportunity to explore. Holidays can present an added risk with more people entering and leaving the house. Kowaliga has previously highlighted this particular concern for indoor cats.
A Little Backup Can Make a Big Difference
Collars and identification tags are important, but collars can come off. A microchip provides a permanent form of identification that stays with your cat.
The tiny chip is placed beneath the skin and contains a unique identification number. If your cat is found and taken to a veterinary clinic or shelter, staff can scan for the chip and use the registration information to help contact you.
Microchipping does not work like GPS and cannot tell you where your cat is. Think of it instead as a permanent ID tag your cat can't lose.
Already Microchipped? Check Your Information
Having the chip implanted is only half of the equation. Your current contact information needs to be registered with the microchip company.
If your cat was microchipped years ago, take a moment to ask yourself: Have you moved? Changed your phone number? Changed your email address?
If so, make sure the registry has been updated. Kowaliga's previous microchip guidance also stresses that outdated or unregistered information can prevent a chip from doing its job.
An Extra Layer of Protection
Even the most devoted indoor cat can unexpectedly find herself on the wrong side of the front door. Microchipping offers one more way to help bring her home.
This month is a great time to take care of it. Ask the Kowaliga Veterinary Care team about our October microchipping special and give your cat identification that stays with her for life.
