we use the avid microchip system, this is what they have to say on the matter:

If you are unable to obtain the signature of the previous owner, please enclose
a copy of receipt / adoption. In the event that neither is available, PETTRAC will
request written verification from the registered keeper. (This may take up to 28 days)

As a rescue, we can rehome a dog if no one has claimed it within 7 days, there is no legal requirement with a cat, but we wait 10 days. After that we rehome and complete all the change details for Avid, they sort out ony tracing pf previous owners.

It seems a lot of red tape but the microchip system was set up to protect owners who loose or have their pets stolen, not the other way round.

If you want to change the chip See if the RSPCA can register the cat as a stray for you and then let you adopt it, make a donation, and they can complete the microchip forms. Dont forget though any rescue will scan and contact the registered microchip keeper.

Hi Siany

Thanks for the info, I've contacted a number of people about this. The RSPCA said that leaving a cat behind without care arrangements is a prosecutable offense and also said I had a good case if there was a dispute etc.
Petlog (the company that the chip is registered to) said they wouldn't be a problem unless the cat is tagged as missing on there data base, they would change the details after getting confirmation of the cats history from the vet etc. Petlog also were keen to state that a chip isn't proof of ownership (sounds odd I know).
Considering the owners neglected him went abroad I very much doubt they even care about the chip info etc, so I think I'll go ahead and get it changed, if they do come out of the wood work I have plenty of proof of neglect and besides they would have to get solicitors involved as Petlog aren't legally allowed to pass on my details without consent, which would be very surprising considering they just left him and haven't made any efforts to contact their previous address to inquire about the cat.

Its all rather silly, thanks again for the information. In your experience would you just leave it be and not change the chip info?

Cheers, BrookyPet

I am sorry this cat is yours now!!!! If they left it, they neglected it and that is cruelty to animals and a large fine or prison sentence would ensue.

You would have evidence on your side. vet records that you have cared for it.

The girlfriends mum could prove when she moved into the hosue. Their passport would show when they left the country. The law would be on your side my friend.

If any vet would consider not backing you up that you have nutured this cat back to health then they are in the wrong job!!

Thanks funkycub

I think your right, I've been in contact with petlog (chipping people) and double checked everything, going to do the same with my vet. I have all the vet records for 1 and a half years and have plenty of proof the last owners left him and the country.

Thanks for the help

Brookypet

My information was based on problems we are aware of when dealing with the microchip people at the rescue. I personaly would not be too bothered about the chip as I am aware of the problems new owners have had, in simular cases to yours.
I would leave it a while longer, then you can say the cat has been with you for years.
You are a genuine caring pet owner, I can see that, but I also know of people who have had their cats/dogs stolen and then the theif claims the animal was abaodoned. I worry the horrible owners who left the poor cat may try that.
Good luck with it all though, I'm glad puss has you