RSPCA South London Branch urges owners to attend free cat microchipping event

Cat owners are being offered free microchipping for their pet at an event held by RSPCA South London branch.

The event will take place on Thursday, 3 April at RSPCA Tooting Charity shop, 71-73 Upper Tooting Road, London, SW17 7TW between 11am and 3pm.

Microchipping is a simple, quick, and effective way to ensure your cat can always be identified and returned home if they go missing.
Since June 2024, microchipping has been a legal requirement for all pet cats in England. If your cat is not yet microchipped, this is the perfect opportunity to get it done at little-to-no cost by a trained RSPCA Animal Welfare Officer.

AWO Cheska Servini said: “We had two successful events last year before the law on cat microchipping changed. We wanted to do another one now before kitten season goes into full swing, especially as unneutered males will roam far and often be picked up by charities who may struggle to locate owners quickly. Microchipping also helps us find the owners of any pregnant mums or mums with kittens so we can reunite them for their safety”

There will also be advice on pet food banks, welfare support, and other resources for pet owners who may need assistance.

RSPCA South London branch manager Jacqui Jackson says: “Times are tough for so many people at the moment with the cost of living. Unfortunately, we’re seeing the impact and our Animal Kindness Index found that a growing number of people are finding keeping pets more expensive, and worried about the costs of feeding their animals. We hope lots of people will take up this offer of much-needed help for their pets at a time they may need it most.”
Anyone interested is asked to register their attendance here.

The event is not means tested, and while it is free, a donation of £15 is suggested to support the branch’s work with local animals. Cats must be brought in a secure carrier, be well-hydrated and cats less than 10 weeks old cannot be microchipped. Owners must be 18 years old or older.

The branch is an independent charity affiliated to the national RSPCA, whose aim is to provide animal welfare assistance to an area with a population of half a million people. It relies upon the generosity of its supporters, donors and volunteers.