Pet microchip formats & scanners

  • Thread starter Stephen Tashi
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In summary, pet microchip scanners in the USA are not standardized and there are competing formats. These include 15-digit microchips (FDXB), 10-digit microchips (FDXA), and 9-digit microchips (Avid Secure/Encrypted Chip). This has led to compatibility issues, as seen in the example of a cat-flap that required two cats to be re-chipped due to their incompatible microchips. The history and formats of microchips for pets are more complex than initially thought, as seen in the detailed information provided by sources such as the PetLink Microchip Guide and petMD.
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Stephen Tashi
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Just some remarks for USA pet owners - not a particular question:

My casual impression of pet microchip scanners was that they detect pet microchips - meaning I had the simplistic idea that there was some standard for pet microchips and that all scanners would detect all chips. However, in researching the specs for buying a scanner, it turns out that the USA, we have competing formats.

http://www.datamars.com/wp-content/uploads/PetLink-Microchip-Guide_USA.pdf

https://www.petmd.com/blogs/fullyve...crochip-companies-square-scientific-scan-6681
 
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IIRC, there are several types, but the big division is between 'old' chips with 'short codes', and the modern 'longer' codes. The former may work at a different frequency or protocol to latter...
- 15-digit microchips (also known as FDXB)
- 10-digit microchips (also known as FDXA)
- 9-digit microchips (also known as Avid Secure/Encrypted Chip)

Some years ago, when I installed a commercially made cat-flap that read pets' micro-chips, we had to get our two oldest cats 're-chipped' as theirs were not compatible...

Hmm. Even more formats and history than I expected...
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Microchip_implant_(animal)
 

1. How do pet microchip formats work?

Pet microchip formats are small electronic devices that are implanted under the skin of a pet. They contain a unique identification number that can be read by a microchip scanner. This number is linked to the pet's information in a database, allowing for easy identification and reunification with their owners if they become lost.

2. What are the different types of pet microchip formats available?

There are two main types of pet microchip formats: 125 kHz and 134 kHz. These refer to the frequency at which the microchip operates. 125 kHz is the most common format in the United States, while 134 kHz is used in most other countries. It is important to make sure your pet's microchip is compatible with the scanner used in your area.

3. Do all pet microchip scanners read all formats?

No, not all pet microchip scanners are capable of reading all formats. It is important to make sure that the microchip scanner being used is compatible with the microchip implanted in your pet. Most universal scanners can read both 125 kHz and 134 kHz formats, but it is always best to check with your veterinarian or local animal shelter to ensure compatibility.

4. Can pet microchip formats be updated or changed?

No, pet microchip formats cannot be updated or changed. Once a microchip is implanted in a pet, it will remain the same for the rest of their life. However, the information linked to the microchip in the database can be updated, so it is important to keep this information current in case of any changes such as a new phone number or address.

5. Are pet microchip formats and scanners reliable?

Yes, pet microchip formats and scanners are very reliable. The chance of a microchip malfunctioning or a scanner not reading a microchip is very low. However, it is important to have your pet's microchip scanned by a professional at least once a year to ensure it is still functioning properly. Microchips have helped reunite countless lost pets with their owners and are an effective way to ensure your pet's safety and security.

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