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Do indoor cats in England need a microchip?
Yes, if you live in England. GOV.UK says your cat must be microchipped and registered by 20 weeks, and it says this includes cats that usually only stay indoors.
The Microchipping of Cats and Dogs (England) Regulations 2023 apply in England. Regulation 3 requires a keeper to ensure a cat older than 20 weeks is microchipped, unless a vet certifies a health exception under regulation 4.
GOV.UK says that in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland you can choose to microchip a cat. Dogs are different: GOV.UK says all dogs in the UK must be microchipped and registered by 8 weeks.
The chip has to be fitted by a trained professional. GOV.UK suggests a vet, a council, or a rescue centre, and says they might charge.
Sources
- Get your dog or cat microchipped — GOV.UK, accessed 14 November 2026.
- The Microchipping of Cats and Dogs (England) Regulations 2023 — legislation.gov.uk, accessed 14 November 2026.