Q: I've been told my pet needs to be microchipped. From a vet's point of view, do you think this is really effective?

Uncertain, via email.

A: Every year, about 80,000 cats and dogs are lost, injured or stolen in NSW alone. Most of these end up euthanased or at the pound because they cannot be identified. Microchipping laws were introduced under the Companion Animals Act (1998) to try to reduce the number of lost pets and encourage people to undertake responsible pet ownership.

As a pet owner, you need to ensure your pet is permanently identified. The first step is to have it microchipped and the second is to register it with the local council.

A microchip is a small electronic device the size of a grain of rice that's inserted between your pet's shoulder blades by an injection. The process is simple, quick and not at all traumatic.
If you're confused about the laws, here are some simple guidelines.

• If your cat was born, sold or given away after July 1, 1999, it must be microchipped. All kittens and puppies must be microchipped before they're three months old.
• It's the responsibility of the person who is selling or transferring the animal to ensure that microchipping has been done before the transfer occurs.
• If your dog or cat is not registered with the local council, you must have it registered.
• Microchipping varies in cost depending on where you go, and can only be done by an ‘authorised identifier'. All vets are authorised identifiers, and some pet shops, breeders and council officers may also be authorised.

Not a moneymaker

Q: I have a cat I want to breed. At what age can I mate her, and what's the average litter size? How much can I sell each kitten for?

Counting Coins, via email.

A: Female cats start 'calling' at around six months of age, but you'll need to wait until she's at least one year old before you mate her. The average litter size is four or five kittens. As for how much to charge, getting them ready to sell still costs a lot.

The kittens need vaccinating, worming, and microchipping, and they'll need to be on flea control. Moggies (cross-breed cats) are easy to pick up from the RSPCA or cat protection societies, and cost $120 to $150, having already been desexed, vaccinated, microchipped and fully vet-checked. We already have far too many moggy kittens needing homes so, before you embark on a breeding scheme, bear in mind that it's not a way to get rich.

What am I paying for?

Q: If my vet doesn't clear up my pet's problem, they haven't delivered the outcome I want. Can I expect a refund?

Not Satisfied, via email.

A: The fees you pay the vet cover procedures provided, including examinations, tests, treatment and medications.

Sometimes a cure may not be possible. You're paying for an honest, educated attempt to diagnose and treat a problem. It's important you and your vet come to an agreement about costs and you know what's involved before you consent to lengthy, expensive tests and therapy. With so much technology available these days, including intricate surgery and scans, vet fees can be expensive. Pet insurance is becoming more of a necessity.

For more great pet advice, check out the latest issue of New Idea - on sale now!