In France, since 2012, all cats and dogs must be identified with a microchip or a tattoo, done by a vet. However, only approved centers and vets can read this information. That's why we recommend identification on personalized cat collars. This applies to outdoor cats but also to indoor cats , which could easily slip outside and get lost in the outside world. Here we'll explain the benefits of the different information you can write or engrave.
Basic, Essential ID Information to Find a Cat That Ran Away
A phone number to reach the lost cat's owner
If we had to choose just one thing to put on a cat ID tag , it would be a phone number, because it's the most useful information to help you find your four-legged friend if they ever get lost. Make sure the number you include is easy to reach: a cell phone number is best.
Below is the kind of product you can personalize with your contact details.
Your home address is a good choice
How do you get a cat that ran away to come back? Your engraved address on the tag can play an important role and allow someone to bring your cat straight back to your home. It will also help neighbors identify your cat so they know their home is nearby. A cat collar with an ID tag is also a good way to let people know your cat isn't a stray.
The cat's name engraved on the collar tag
We love seeing our beloved cats' names on their engraved ID tags. However, if your cat answers to their name, you may choose not to include it, especially if they go outdoors. Cat thefts are increasingly common, and thieves can use a cat's name to win their trust. There are around 100,000 cat and dog thefts in France every year. Putting an ID tag on your cat's collar is a deterrent against theft.
If you choose not to include your cat's name, you can add your last name or even the owner's full name: useful information if your cat is found.
Other Useful Information for Your Cat's Safety
"I'm microchipped" is useful information
Including "I'm microchipped" can also be a good deterrent for cat thieves. If your cat always wears their ID collar with your up-to-date phone number, this mention won't necessarily be very useful. However, if the contact details on the collar are wrong or unreadable, the microchip can then be scanned if your cat is taken to a vet or an approved center. The professionals can then look up the database and contact you.
Writing "I'm neutered" on the collar
If you have a purebred cat, including "I'm neutered" or "I'm spayed" is a good way to deter cat thieves looking to breed cats to sell them. Some purebred cats can sell for several thousand euros. Note that neutered cats are less likely to run away than unneutered cats, as they feel less need to expand their territory.
Adding "Don't feed me"
If you have a friendly outdoor cat who loves visiting the neighbors, "don't feed me" could be a good way to make sure they don't get a second dinner! Plus, if your cat has allergies, you can mention them too so they aren't fed anything that might cause problems.
Mentioning health problems
If your cat needs regular medication, you can include that as well. It could encourage whoever finds your cat to contact you right away or take them to the vet.
Letting passersby know it's an indoor cat
If your cat is an indoor cat, it may be worth simply adding "indoor cat" so people know they shouldn't be outside. If you have room on the tag, you can also add "if I'm outside, I'm lost" to make it even clearer.
Where to Get Personalized ID Collars
A wide choice of original, fun collars
There are plenty of beautiful, fun personalized cat collars you can get to make your pet stand out from the crowd. At Chic et Chat, our collection of personalized collars includes a variety of styles, with different colors, shapes and patterns. You can ask for free engraving of your collar tag with the information of your choice. If you have a pup, no one gets left out! You'll also find beautiful personalized dog collars in our dedicated collection: see our personalized collar for cats and dogs
Don't overlook the collar's quality
While most vets recommend ID collars, the ones we spoke with advise paying attention to the quality of the accessory. Choose high-quality materials and breakaway collars to ensure your companion's safety.
We hope you enjoyed this article, and we look forward to seeing you soon in our store!
Also worth reading: What Size Collar Does My Cat Need?
