Microchipping is something that is required of cat owners these days, but that doesn’t mean you don’t need to know how it works. savvycat got curious and did a bit of research…
Microchips that are used in cats (and pets in general) use passive RFID (radio frequency identification) technology. RFID uses radio waves to transmit information. Usually, RFID transmits constantly, but in the case of a passive RFID it will only transmit information when it is ‘requested’ by a scanner and as such has no battery or internal power source inside. When a scanner is passed over a passive RFID, it will provide power for the microchip to send back it’s information.
Size comparison between a microchip and an Australian 5 cent piece.
This is the same kind of technology that is used on high risk items at your local grocery store. You know those little tags stuck on the back of razors, shampoo and makeup? While in a different form, the technology is the same. Their scanners are the large, usually perspex dividers at the ends of the checkouts. The main difference (besides shape and size) is that these tags can be overwritten at the checkout (so it does not set off the alarm if you purchased the item), whereas the microchip is a ‘read only’ device, meaning you cannot overwrite the information contained within.
So, what is the microchip made of?
Well, to start with, it has a glass cover. This glass is biocompatible – which means that it is not toxic and your kitty should not experience any allergic reactions. Sometimes the microchips can also include a cap made of polypropylene polymer, which works to keep the chip from moving once it has been implanted by encouraging tissue and other kind of cells inside the area to form around the capsule and hold it in place.
Inside the glass capsule, you’ll find a silicon microchip that contains the a unique identification number, as well as a tuning capacitor and an antenna coil. The capacitor receives power (from the scanner) and sends it to the microchip. The microchip’s identification number is then sent back to the scanner through the antenna using radio signals, which the scanner will interpret and display the correct information on the screen.
This number can then be checked against the various microchip databases for a match. These databases contain the information that you (should have) provided when the microchip was implanted into your kitty. It will include the cat’s name, breed, owner and appropriate contact details. It is very important to remember that a microchip is only as good as the information that has been registered for it. So if you’ve moved or changed phone numbers since you first registered your kitty you need to update your information. If you are unsure how to do this, contact your local council or vet.
Does it hurt?
Well, only a little. I can’t be certain (seeing as no one has ever microchipped me) but it apparently only hurts as much as a vaccination shot. Even PETA has said that the pain of the procedure for the animal is minimal compared to the consequences of it getting lost, so that is somewhat reassuring.
What else do I need to know?
I’m repeating myself now but: keep your information up to date. There is no point in having your cat microchipped if you are unable to be contacted should anything happen.
If you have any questions or concerns about microchipping your furry loved one, speak with your Vet: they will be able to provide you with all the information about the procedure and put your mind at ease.
savvycat x
