Rabbit Microchipping

Do rabbits need to be microchipped? 

It’s a common misconception that rabbits don’t need to be microchipped and while legally you don’t have to it’s still a good idea. Rabbits are excellent escape artists and can easily find a way out of their enclosure or garden. They’re difficult to identify if they get lost but if they’ve been microchipped it can increase the chances of you getting them back safe and sound.

Unlike a collar or tag, which may not be suitable for a rabbit, a microchip is a permanent form of identification that can’t be lost or removed. If your rabbit goes missing and is taken to a vet or shelter they’ll be able to scan your pet and quickly get in touch with you.

In unfortunate cases of theft or ownership dispute a microchip also serves as a degree of proof that they belong to you.

When should rabbits be microchipped?

Ideally you should get your rabbit chipped as soon as you get them. If you plan to get them neutered your vet will be able to do it at the same time, usually when they’re around four to six months.

How does microchipping work?

When you get your rabbit microchipped your vet will insert a tiny microchip under their skin, usually between the shoulder blades. It’s a quick procedure which doesn’t require any anaesthetic and your rabbit won’t be able to feel it once it’s in.

The microchip contains a unique identification number which is saved in a registered database alongside your contact details. If your rabbit goes missing, a vet or animal shelter can scan your pet, access your details and reunite you. There are other sound reasons to get your rabbit microchipped:

• Permanent identification – It provides a lifelong and tamper-proof way to identify your rabbit, unlike collars which may not be suitable, fall off or be removed
• Proof of ownership - In the case of pet disputes a microchip serves as a degree of proof, making it easier to reclaim your rabbit
• Prevents mistaken identity – Lost rabbits can be mistaken for wild ones, especially if they’re found outside. A microchip ensures they’re recognised as a pet and not a stray
• Peace of mind - It provides an extra layer of security and increases the chances of them being safely returned to you if they’re lost or stolen

What is the microchipping procedure?

Microchipping your rabbit is quick and easy. Your vet will use a special device to inject the microchip, which is about the size of a grain of rice, under your rabbit’s skin, usually between the shoulder blades. It’s very similar to having a vaccination and any discomfort lasts just a few seconds. Your vet will add your details and unique number to the database and then you’ll take your pet your home.

Whose responsibility is it to microchip a rabbit?

As the owner it’s up to you whether you have your rabbit microchipped. It’s not compulsory but it’s a good idea so they’re easily identifiable if they ever go missing. It’s also your responsibility to keep your details up to date at the database you’re registered with, especially if your pet goes to a new home.

How do I change my rabbit’s microchip details?

Changing your rabbit’s details is a straightforward process. When they’re microchipped your vet will give you paperwork with their unique ID number and the registry where the details are kept. You’ll need to either phone them or log in online and follow the instructions. Some databases will charge a fee for this, others do it for free.

What to do if your rabbit goes missing

Hopefully your rabbit will never disappear but given that they’re masters at escaping their enclosures it’s always a possibility. If the worst happens there’s plenty you can do to maximise your chances of getting them back safely:

• Check your home and garden – Rabbits are great at hiding so they may still be in the immediate area, just not where they should be
• Let neighbours know – Check your next-door neighbours’ gardens and ask them to keep an eye out
• Alert your microchip database – Let your vet and the database know so they can flag your pet and quickly reunite you if they’re brought to a clinic or a shelter
• Leverage social media – Post on your social media platforms with a recent photo of your rabbit. The more people who know your pet is missing the more people can look for them
• Create missing posters – Pop up posters in your local area with a recent picture of your pet and your number
• Check with local vets and shelters – If your rabbit is chipped they’ll have your details and be able to contact you but if not, get in touch with local clinics and shelters to check if your rabbit has been found there
• Stay positive – It can be hard when you’ve lost a much-loved pet but rabbits can sometimes hide for hours or even days before emerging. Leave food, water and a familiar scent outside to lure them back