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Can a cat's microchip shift and cause issues with a cat flap?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | British Shorthair | Male | neutered

is it possible for microchips in cats to be dislodged a little? we're having issues with one of the cats and the cat flap which operates on microchip recognitions - its programing ok and working when we put his head right up to it but when he tries its not working so just wondering if at all the microchip could be just slightly out of place, our other cat has no issues and gets in no worries - if it is the microchip, is it possible to re-position or install another new one?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on February 18th, 2017

It is rare, but the microchip can migrate. Repositioning it may require minor surgery to remove it. Xrays would likely be required to pinpoint its location. Discuss this with your veterinarian. Contact the company's Technical Support department to troubleshoot the issue and to discuss if another chip would be indicated.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Joy Fuhrman, DVM, MBA, CPA

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Since microchips are placed in the subcutaneous tissue underneath the skin, it is absolutely possible for it to migrate a little from its original placement site. Your veterinarian can take an x-ray of Gizmo to confirm exactly where the microchip is. However, if it has moved, repositioning may be challenging and could possibly require minor surgery.

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