How does stainless steel magnetic shielding affect pet microchips?

Stainless steel magnetic shielding can interfere with pet microchip functionality by disrupting the electromagnetic fields required for RFID communication. When a microchip scanner emits a low-frequency signal to activate the chip, stainless steel—particularly ferritic types with magnetic properties—can absorb or deflect these waves, potentially preventing successful reading. This occurs because the shielding creates a Faraday cage effect, attenuating the energy needed for microchip response. While austenitic stainless steels (e.g., 304 grade) are less magnetic, thick or fully enclosed shields may still cause read failures. Pet owners should avoid placing stainless steel accessories near microchip sites and consult veterinarians for scanning tests if interference is suspected. For optimal safety, use non-magnetic materials in microchip-adjacent products and ensure scanners meet ISO 11784/11785 standards to minimize false negatives.