Average cost
£20–£25
Typical range
£15–£30
Species
Dog & Cat
Category
Routine Care
Anaesthesia
Not required
How much does microchipping cost?
Microchipping typically costs £20–£25 in the UK, though prices can range from £15 to £30 depending on your location, the practice, and your pet's individual circumstances.
Costs are UK averages based on publicly available data. Actual prices vary by practice, location, and animal size.
What affects the price?
| Factor | Impact on cost | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Prices are higher in London and the South East | £25–£30 in London vs £15–£20 in the North |
| Chain vs independent | Corporate chains tend to charge slightly more than independent practices | £25–£30 at a chain vs £15–£22 at an independent |
| Charity or campaign pricing | Animal charities and local council campaigns sometimes offer free or subsidised microchipping | Free at a Dogs Trust event vs £25 at a vet practice |
What's included in the price?
- Microchip implantation via injection between the shoulder blades
- Registration on an approved UK database
- Scanning to confirm correct placement
- Certificate of microchipping
What to expect
Microchipping involves injecting a tiny radio-frequency identification (RFID) chip, roughly the size of a grain of rice, under the skin between your pet's shoulder blades. Each chip carries a unique 15-digit number linked to your contact details on an approved database. If your pet goes missing, any vet, rescue centre, or dog warden can scan the chip and reunite you.
When is it needed? In England, all dogs must be microchipped by eight weeks of age — it has been a legal requirement since 2016. Since June 2024 it is also compulsory for cats in England to be microchipped by 20 weeks. Puppies and kittens from breeders or rescues should already be chipped before they come home with you.
