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Pet ID tags
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Identify your cat with a tag. These simple tags can be purchased through various outlets, including local pet stores and online stores. Engrave them with your cat's name, home address, and the owner's name and phone number. If your cat has allergies, you can list those as well. List your cat's vaccinations. Place the tags on your cat's collar. If your cat becomes lost and someone finds him, they can easily find you and return your him.
Injectable Pet ID
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A bio-chip transponder --- a clear glass tube with a silicon computer laser-etched identification code --- can be injected underneath your cat's skin and read with a scanner. The scanner will read the chip's serial number and pull your cat's information. This option works better than a tag, since it can't be removed or lost. The procedure is minimally invasive and quick and can be performed at your local animal clinic.
Tattoo Identification System
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A tattoo identification system involves marking a code on your cat's skin. The tattoo can be placed on the cat's ear, inner thigh or abdomen. The person who finds your cat can call a national database -- such as the Tattoo-a-Pet National Registry or the ID Pet National Registry -- and track him back to you.
GPS Pet Locator
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A GPS pet locator is a small Global Positioning System that attaches to your pet's collar. You can track the device through Google maps. Some devices will even send you a text message if your pet wanders past his "safe zone." The American Kennel Club has one called the SpotLite that includes an "If Found" button. If someone finds your pet and presses that button, you and the American Kennel Club Recovery team are notified.
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Tracking Systems for Cats
Cats without an ID rarely get returned to their owner, but those with an ID have a much greater chance of coming home. If your cat loses his way, a tracking system will make sure you find him again quickly. Tracking systems can be either surgically implanted or placed on your cat's collar.