ChecklistExample answer
New cat setup in the UK (microchip is the law)
Before pickup: Food + water bowls · Cat food (life-stage appropriate) · Litter box + litter · Scratching post/pad · Carrier · Bed / resting spot · Toys · Brush/comb · Breakaway collar + ID tag · Nail clippersFact
Your plan
Identification: Use both a breakaway collar with an ID tag AND a microchip — the tag gets your cat home fast, the chip is the permanent backup.Fact
UK: microchip is the law: In England, cats must be microchipped by 20 weeks of age (law from 10 June 2024).Fact
Routine decision. You can act on this at your own pace.
How this was decided
- core supply checklist (EV-004)
- two-layer ID: tag + microchip (EV-004)
- UK microchip law from 2024-06-10 (EV-004)
Sources
- T4 (ASPCA — established US animal-welfare authority) · Tier 3 · verified 2026-07-17 · commercial bias noted · source conflict noted
Real questions cat owners ask
- New Kitten Checklist: Essential Supplies, Home Prep, and Vet Visits
- Kitten-proofing the house....what do I do?
- Preparing for your new cat or kitten - International Cat Care
Save your cat to My Cat to personalize this, or run it with your cat’s details.