Losing a cat is stressful, but cat microchip registration can make all the difference. A microchip only works when it is registered with accurate contact details – otherwise, it is just a string of numbers. In British Columbia, registering your cat with BC Pet Registry helps shelters, including BC SPCA locations, reunite lost cats with their owners faster. Learn why registration matters, what happens if you skip it, and how one-time, lifetime registration gives you lasting peace of mind.
Cat Microchip Registration in BC: Why It Matters for Your Cat
Cat microchip registration is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your cat. While a microchip provides permanent identification, registration connects that number to your contact information. Without registration, a microchip cannot help reunite you with your cat.
In British Columbia, thousands of cats go missing every year. Fortunately, many are found and brought to shelters. However, successful reunions depend on accurate and up-to-date microchip records. Therefore, understanding how cat microchip registration works is essential for every BC cat owner.
Why Register Your Cat with BC Pet Registry
BC Pet Registry is a program of the BC SPCA. Because of this connection, registration plays a critical role when cats are found.
Across British Columbia, there are over 30 BC SPCA animal centres. In addition, some centres operate as municipal shelters. As a result, lost cats are very likely to be brought to a BC SPCA location. When staff scan a microchip, they can directly check the BC Pet Registry to find owner contact details.
In 2024 alone, over 4,000 cats entered BC SPCA shelters. Unfortunately, many had outdated contact information, unregistered microchips, or no identification at all. Consequently, reunification was delayed or impossible in some cases.
By completing cat microchip registration, you significantly improve the chances of a fast reunion.
One-Time Fee, Lifetime Cat Microchip Registration in BC
BC Pet Registry offers a one-time registration fee that lasts for your cat’s lifetime. There are no annual renewal costs, which makes it simple and affordable.
Moreover, registration includes unlimited updates. You can add emergency contacts, co-owners, medical notes, and behavioural details. You can also upload photos, which further helps confirm ownership.
In addition, BC Pet Registry allows you to add tattoo codes and city license tag numbers. This creates multiple layers of identification for your cat.
24/7 Peace of Mind for BC Cat Owners
Another benefit of cat microchip registration is round-the-clock support. If your cat is found after hours, shelter staff and authorized partners can still access your information.
Because life changes, contact details change too. Thankfully, BC Pet Registry allows unlimited updates at no extra cost. Therefore, your cat’s record can always reflect your current phone number and address.
What If You Don’t Register Your Cat’s Microchip?
If you do not complete cat microchip registration, the microchip number is not linked to your contact information. As a result, shelters and veterinarians cannot reach you.
Even though your cat has a microchip, it becomes ineffective without registration. In other words, the chip exists, but it does not tell anyone who you are.
We Accept All Microchip Brands
BC Pet Registry accepts all cat microchip brands. No matter where or when your cat was microchipped, you can register the number in the database.
Because of this flexibility, every BC cat owner can take advantage of cat microchip registration today. It is important to note that not all registries are the same, learn more here.
Register Your Cat Today
Cat microchip registration is a simple step that offers lifelong protection. It supports faster reunions, reduces shelter stays, and provides peace of mind.
Register your cat today and make sure their microchip truly works when it matters most.
Other Cat Resources and Information
FAQs
1. Is a microchip enough if I don’t register it?
No. Without registration, a microchip cannot be traced to your contact information.
2. How much does cat microchip registration cost?
BC Pet Registry charges a one-time fee of $45 for lifetime registration.
3. Can I update my contact information later?
Yes. You can make unlimited updates, including emergency contacts and photos.
4. What happens if my cat is found at a BC SPCA shelter?
Staff scan the microchip and search BC Pet Registry to contact you quickly.
5. Does BC Pet Registry accept all microchip brands?
Yes. All cat microchip brands are accepted.
6. There are free pet registry services out there — why do I have to pay?
Some “free” registries aren’t truly free. Many exist primarily to collect personal information, which can then be shared or sold to third parties. We’ve heard from pet owners who later received unexpected emails or payment demands long after they’d forgotten signing up.
Our service charges a fee so we can operate transparently, protect your data, and maintain a secure, reliable registry you can trust. You’re paying for safety, privacy, and long‑term peace of mind.
