nathant, Author at Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill

How to Administer Insulin to a Cat: Expert Feline Diabetes Care

08.13.25

Feline diabetes is a common condition in cats, with an estimated 1% of cats developing it over their lifetime. Managing diabetes in cats requires knowledge, consistency, and care. It may seem daunting at first to administer insulin to a cat, but with the right guidance, it becomes a safe and routine part of your cat’s healthcare.

Understanding Feline Diabetes

Feline diabetes is a condition where a cat’s body cannot regulate blood sugar effectively. Common symptoms include:

Increased thirst and urination
Weight loss despite normal appetite
Lethargy and reduced activity

Insulin therapy is essential to regulate blood glucose levels and improve your cat’s quality of life.

Preparing for Insulin Administration

Before giving an injection, gather the following supplies:

Insulin prescribed by your veterinarian
Syringes appropriate for the type and dose of insulin
A clean, quiet area to reduce stress
A logbook to track doses, injection times, and any reactions

Step-by-Step Guide to Administer Insulin to a Cat

Wash Your Hands: Maintain hygiene before handling insulin.
Check the Insulin: Verify the expiration date and gently roll the vial to mix the solution.
Draw the Dose: Use the syringe to measure the exact amount prescribed. Accuracy is crucial.
Prepare Your Cat: Find a calm space and gently restrain your cat. Wrapping in a towel can prevent sudden movements.
Give the Injection: Lift the scruff of the neck to create a small “tent,” insert the needle at a slight angle, and push the plunger.
Reward Your Cat: Offer a treat or gentle petting to create a positive association.
Monitor for Reactions: Watch for signs of hypoglycemia, such as weakness, tremors, or unusual behavior, and contact your veterinarian if needed.

Tips for Consistent Insulin Care

Administer injections at the same time each day
Rotate injection sites to prevent irritation
Keep detailed records of doses, meal times, and behaviors
Schedule regular check-ups with your veterinarian

Why Professional Support Matters

While administering insulin to a cat at home is important, professional guidance ensures safe and effective treatment. At The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill, our experienced veterinarians specialize in feline diabetes management. We provide personalized insulin instruction, health monitoring and treatment adjustments, and compassionate care tailored to each cat. If your cat has diabetes or you need guidance with insulin administration, our team is here to help. Contact The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill to schedule a consultation and ensure your feline friend receives the highest standard of care. Visit our office or call us at (856) 662-2662 today.

Why a Cat-Only Vet Clinic Is the Purr-fect Choice for Your Feline Friend

07.15.25

When it comes to veterinary care, not all clinics are created equal, especially if you’re the proud parent of a cat. Felines have unique health needs, behaviors, and sensitivities that are often very different from dogs and other pets. That’s why choosing a cat-only vet clinic like The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill can make all the difference in your pet’s health, comfort, and quality of life.

Benefits of Choosing a Cat-Only Vet Clinic

Just like doctors for people have specialties (like your PCP or a cardiologist), choosing a veterinarian that specializes in feline care can make all the difference in your kitty’s health. Here are just a few reasons why a cat-only vet clinic is the best choice for your cat:

Stress-Free Environment: Unlike general veterinary offices, a cat-only clinic eliminates the stress of barking dogs and busy waiting rooms. A quiet, calm environment makes visits less traumatic for cats, which helps reduce anxiety and improves the accuracy of exams.
Feline-Focused Expertise: If you’re a cat owner, you know the truth… Cats aren’t just small dogs! They have specific health concerns and often hide symptoms until a condition is advanced. At a feline-exclusive clinic, the veterinary staff is highly trained to spot subtle signs of illness and understands the complexities of feline physiology and behavior.
Tailored Treatments and Equipment: From dental care to diagnostics, all treatments and tools at a cat-only clinic are chosen with your cat’s size and comfort in mind. This leads to safer procedures, more effective treatments, and better outcomes for your feline companion.
More Personalized Care: Specialized clinics often provide a more personalized experience. Our veterinarians and staff take the time to get to know your cat and you, allowing us to tailor our approach and build long-term relationships based on trust that last and extend your kitty’s lifetime.

Looking for a New Vet? Choose The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill

At The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill, we’re dedicated exclusively to the health and happiness of cats. As a full-service feline veterinary clinic serving Cherry Hill and surrounding areas, we offer everything from preventive care and diagnostics to surgery and senior cat support. Our compassionate, cat-loving team is committed to exceeding expectations for both you and your feline friend. Ready to experience the difference of specialized feline care? Contact us today to schedule an appointment and give your cat the expert attention they deserve.

Big News from the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill!

07.07.25

Dear Cat Clinic Family,

Many of you know that I recently reduced my hours. Now, I have some very exciting news. For some time I have been actively searching for just the right doctor to join the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill and become its new owner. My standards were high. I had to find someone who shared my deep love and appreciation for our feline family members, but who also had the medical skills to propel the Cat Clinic forward in the ever evolving field of feline medicine and surgery. I have the great pleasure of announcing that I have found such a veterinarian. She is Dr. Amanda Kennedy, and she will be taking over the reins at the Cat Clinic and moving it forward into the future, together with myself, Dr. Schreiber and Dr. Todd, who you already know (and love), and our excellent support staff.

Like me, Dr. Kennedy has the rare distinction of holding a board certification in feline practice from the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners. She graduated from the College of Veterinary Medicine at the esteemed Cornell University in 2017, after which she completed a two-year residency in feline practice. She has practiced at two busy feline-only veterinary clinics in Columbus, OH and in Guilderland, NY where she was the medical director.

The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill has been my life’s work and commitment, and I am pleased to remain part of it. With Dr. Kennedy, the future of this beloved practice is in the most capable hands. Our hours are restored, and the quality of our practice is further exceeded. I know you will join me in welcoming her warmly.

Sincerely,

John J. McCauley, VMD

Hello Everyone!

I am honored and excited to introduce myself as the new owner and veterinarian at the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill. Dr. McCauley has fostered and developed this practice into a truly special place over the last 28 years. It is with immense gratitude that I step into this role, joining a team that has built a strong and trusted reputation for compassionate, high-quality feline care.

I am originally from Bucks County, Pennsylvania and am so happy to be closer to family than I have been in a long time. I am an active member of the Feline Veterinary Medical Association, the American Veterinary Medical Association, and the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners, and currently serve on several committees. I have had research publications in the Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, the Feline Practitioner Magazine, and I continue to participate in clinical research to advance the field of feline medicine. I look forward to bringing exciting new clinical trials to the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill in the future. My special interests include complex internal medicine cases, pain management, and geriatric medicine. I am also experienced in abdominal ultrasound, advanced dentistry and several feline-specific surgical procedures.

I consider myself so lucky that I get to work with cats every day and with a group of people who also understand how special they are. I have always believed that cats deserve a veterinarian that understands their unique behaviors, illnesses, and physiology. I feel fortunate to be working alongside Dr. McCauley, whose continued presence in a part-time role brings both continuity and a familiar face for many of our long-time clients. I share that same deep commitment to the specialized needs of cats, and I’m honored to build upon the outstanding foundation Dr. McCauley has created.

As we move forward, my goal is to continue building relationships with you and your beloved pets—honoring the traditions of the practice while also bringing fresh energy and ideas to ensure we provide the best possible care.

Thank you for welcoming me into this wonderful community.

Sincerely,

Amanda Kennedy, DVM

How to Keep Cats from Overheating During a Heatwave

06.23.25

If you have cats, you know they love to lay around in a sun spot soaking in the warm rays. However, like most household pets, if they’re overheating during the summer, it can be dangerous for their health! Whether you’re experiencing a heatwave or just live in a warm climate, it’s essential your cats stay cool and hydrated this summer. That’s why the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill has compiled some important tips on how to keep cats from overheating when it’s hot outside!

5 Tips to Keep Cats from Overheating

For those with air conditioning, it’s not too difficult to keeps cats from overheating, but if you have limited or no AC, or if your power has gone out and things are heating up, here are some tips for helping your kitty stay cool during a heatwave:

The most important thing is to make sure your cat has fresh water so they can stay hydrated. If your cat is panting, that’s typically not a great sign! Give them some cool water and call a vet if you think your cat is overheating
When it comes to playtime, keeping your cat cool is possible! Yes, even if they’re running around! Ice cubes are a great toy that your cat can chase across the floor to keep cool, or you can put their favorite toy in the freezer for an hour or so before letting them play with it.
Speaking of ice, many cats love ice treats! Kitty-friendly ice treats are a healthy and cool snack your cat will love!
Investing in a cooling mat is a great idea. Most pet stores have a wide variety of options when it comes to cooling mats, and cats love laying on them. However, if you’re on a budget, putting ice packs or even frozen packs of vegetables in your cat’s sleep-spot can make a huge difference! Just make sure to wrap them in a towel before you place them in your cat’s bed or favorite cuddling spot.
It’s best to keep your cat indoors when it’s hot, but if your cat does go outside, make sure they have a shady spot to avoid the sun. Keep your eye for signs of overheating and dry-skin, which can indicate sunburn.

If Your Cat is Overheating, Call the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill!

If you notice your cat is having a hard time keeping cool this summer, don’t wait; call the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill. The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill can provide you with all the information you need to keep your cat safe and happy during the hottest months of the summer. To schedule an appointment or to learn more about summer cat safety, call us at 856-662-2662. We are a full vet clinic that caters exclusively to cats and their health.

How to Build Trust with Cats: A Guide from the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill

05.20.25

When you adopt a cat, it’s important to form a positive connection with them to create a welcoming environment in your home. Whether your cat is shy, aggressive, or stand-offish, most cats will warm up to you over time. The key with any kitty is forming mutual trust and fostering a positive relationship. Having a great relationship with your cat is possible, and the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill is here with a few things you can do to build trust with cats.

5 Ways to Build Trust with Cats

Cats can be finicky creatures, but having a good relationship with your kitty is possible! That’s why the experts at the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill are here with a guide on how to build trust with cats:

Learn body language cues: Cats can be very expressive with their body language, and this is one of the biggest tells on whether they trust you. A cat who’s sitting and watching you intently is displaying more signs of mistrust than one who is sleeping belly-up next to you. Here’s a great tool for reading cat body language.
Respect personal space: It’s no secret that cats enjoy their independence. Whether you’re just introducing your cat to your home or you’ve been living together for a while, your cat is likely to want a space just for them. If they’ve found a space they enjoy being in alone, it’s best not to invade their spot. Your cat will come to you when they’re ready for attention.
Learn your cat’s limits for physical touch. Some cats love to be pet all over; others prefer certain spots and only when the stars are aligned. Be predictable with your moments and refer back to their body language when petting or playing.
Use positive reinforcement techniques. Whether you’re training your cat to do a trick or just want to reward it for being social, positive reinforcement can go a long way. Treats, pets, and verbal praise are great rewards for good behavior.
Be patient. Like most relationships, building a healthy and happy one with your cat can take time. When you respect your cat’s boundaries and make an effort to learn how they use body language to communicate what they like or dislike, eventually, your cat will begin to open up, relax, and feel comfortable with you.

For All Your Cat Needs, Call the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill

When it comes to your cat, trust the experts! Whether you’re looking for more behavior advice or the best cat vet in town, the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill has you covered. We’re a full service veterinary clinic exclusively for cats and have been serving Jersey residents since 1997! For more tips on how to build trust with cats or to schedule an appointment with us, call our office at (856) 662-2662. You can also check out our blog for more tips, tricks, and need-to-knows about cat-ownership.

Why Is My Cat Drooling? | The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill Answers

05.16.25

Noticing your cat drooling can be concerning, especially if it seems out of the ordinary. While occasional drooling may be harmless, especially if your cat is relaxed or purring excessively, persistent or excessive drooling may indicate an underlying health issue that requires professional attention. If you’re wondering, “why is my cat drooling?”, the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill is here to help you identify the problem.

6 Reasons Cats Might Be Drooling

Here are some common causes of drooling in cats:

Relaxation: For some cats, drooling is a sign of contentment, relaxation, and even excitement. If you notice your cat’s drooling corresponds with purring or as a response to receiving treats, then your cat is probably doing just fine. Consult with your veterinarian if the drooling becomes excessive.
Dental Disease: One of the most frequent reasons cats drool is dental issues. Conditions like gingivitis, tooth decay, or oral infections can make swallowing painful, causing your cat to drool. You may also notice bad breath or difficulty eating.
Nausea or Toxin Exposure: Cats that ingest something toxic, like certain plants, household chemicals, or spoiled food, may drool as a response. Nausea caused by kidney or liver disease can also trigger drooling.
Oral Trauma or Foreign Objects: Cats can injure their mouths while chewing on toys or foreign objects. A stuck item, like a string or small bone, can irritate the mouth or throat and cause drooling.
Upper Respiratory Infections: Cats suffering from respiratory infections often experience mouth breathing, loss of appetite, and drooling, especially if ulcers form in the mouth.
Heatstroke or Stress: In rare cases, overheating or stress, such as car rides or vet visits, can lead to excessive salivation.

Still Searching ‘Why Is My Cat Drooling?” Call the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill

At The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill, we specialize exclusively in feline care, making us uniquely qualified to diagnose and treat cat-specific health concerns like unexplained drooling. Our expert veterinary team provides gentle, compassionate care in a cat-only environment, reducing stress for both you and your pet. If you’ve been wondering, “why is my cat drooling?”, don’t wait to find out. Drooling can be an early warning sign of something serious. Schedule an appointment with us at (856) 662-2662 so we can evaluate your cat’s health and provide the treatment they need.

The Best Cherry Hill Cat Vet | Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill

03.18.25

Whether you’re a long-time cat owner or just adopted your first furry buddy, you know that cats are more than just a pet – they’re part of your family! When it comes to protecting the health of your family, you don’t want to settle for anything less than superb. If you’re looking for the best Cherry Hill cat vet, then look no further than the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill! We are a specialized veterinarian’s office with expertise in cat healthcare!

Why Choose the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill?

There are a ton of fantastic vets in New Jersey, but most of them care for a variety of animals. But at the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill, we know not all animals are the same! That’s why we specialize in cat healthcare. Here are 4 reasons you should choose the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill to care for your furry friend:

Cats are our Specialty: The vets and vet techs at our office are experts in cat treatment and care. We are committed to providing not only the best both care for your cat but also education for you on your cat’s health. We understand that your number one priority when entering our office is your cat’s health, which is why it’s also ours!
Experienced vet: Our premier vet Dr. John McCauley has specialized in feline healthcare for over two decades. Dr. McCauley loves cats and it was always his dream to open a specialized clinic like the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill. He continues to provide the best treatment, both medical and surgical, for every kitty that comes through the door.
Support staff: Our team is compassionate, friendly, and genuine. We understand that talking about your kitty’s health isn’t always easy. Your comfort and education about your cat’s situation and health are our top-priority. We always take care and time to make sure you and your cat are as comfortable as possible, and we are often willing to go the extra mile to ensure that you both have the best experience at our office as possible.
Continued education: If you have further questions or curiosities about cat care and health, our blog provides an educational space for you to learn more. We update monthly with new topics!

Get the Best Care for Your Best Friend!

At the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill, we are committed to proving we are the best Cherry Hill cat vet for you and your kitty. Our biggest concern is making sure your feline family member stays healthy and strong, and we promise to take the time to educate you on their health and treatment plan! When you choose the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill, you’re not just choosing the best care possible for your kitty, but also peace of mind that we have your cat’s best interests at heart. The highly experienced professionals at our office strive to provide the very best in specialized feline care, which is why we are the go-to cat veterinarian office in not just Cherry Hill, but throughout NJ. Set up an appointment for your furry friend today by calling our office (856) 662-2662.

Brushing Your Cat’s Teeth: A Tutorial

02.23.25

If you have a cat, you’ve probably noticed they suffer from some pretty severe halitosis – aka bad breath! Just like humans, cats need proper dental hygiene care. Dental problems like gingivitis are quite common in cats, and similar to human health, poor dental hygiene can lead to other lasting health issues for your kitty. The good news is, brushing your cat’s teeth is something you can do at home! So check out these tips to help you brush your cat’s!

6 Tips for Brushing Your Cat’s Teeth

If you’ve ever tried to groom your cat in any way, you’re probably aware they’re not always cooperative, but don’t worry! The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill is here with a few helpful tips to make it as painless for both you and your kitty as possible:

First things first! You’ll need a special toothbrush and toothpaste. Your cat isn’t a human, so remember to never use human toothpaste or similar products like baking soda or mouthwash. These are not safe for your kitty! Thankfully, toothbrushes and cat-friendly toothpaste can both be found at most pet stores.
To start, make sure your cat is as calm and comfortable as possible. Sit them in your lap or in one of their favorite places. If your cat likes it, you might try easing them into the situation with some catnip for the nerves.
Especially the first time you brush their teeth, introduce your cat to the process gradually! You can begin by letting them sample the toothpaste. Put a little in their mouth so they can adjust to the taste. They might even lick it off your finger!
For the best brushing technique, use two hands. Hold the toothbrush with one hand and with the other, gently lift your cat’s lips so you have access to the teeth and their gums. Make sure to get in all those nooks and crannies!
Just like with your own teeth, you want to use a gentle circular brushing motion on the teeth and gums. Do your best to get the back of their teeth and their upper molars and canines.
Finally, make sure to give your cat a treat for a job well-done! Hopefully this encourages them for next time! We recommend treats that promote good dental hygiene. They’re tasty and healthy.

Take Care of Your Cat’s Health with The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill

Cats are notorious for having poor dental health and hygiene. That’s why keeping up with a good dental hygiene routine is an important aspect of having a kitty. We recommend brushing every day or several times per week if possible. In addition to brushing your cat’s teeth, you’ll want to make sure your cat has an annual professional tooth-cleaning and oral exam performed by an experienced vet. This will keep their teeth, gums, and body healthy. If you have questions on brushing your cat’s teeth or are ready to schedule an oral exam for your cat, give the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill a call at 856-662-2662. You can see all the medical services we provide to keep your kitty healthy and happy on our website or check out our blog!

Training Your Cat to Sit with Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill

01.17.25

If you’re a cat owner, you may be wondering if it’s possible to teach your cat tricks. However, it’s a common misconception that cats aren’t trainable or that they’re too independent to listen to their owners. Cats are extremely smart and clever, and many are eager to play and learn! Just like dogs, training a cat to do tricks is not only possible, but in some cases, pretty easy. Of course, it’s best to start with something cats already do naturally: sitting! That’s why the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill is here to help with training your cat to sit.

Training Your Cat to Sit in 4 Easy Steps

Cats, like dogs, are typically pretty motivated by the promise of treats. Positive reinforcement can go a long way! Follow these 4 steps 2-3 times per day for several minutes. Repetition will help your cat learn what to do and you should be able to train a cat to sit in no time!

When your cat sits, at the same time, say “sit.” If your cat is responsive to its name, you can say your cat’s name first, then give the sit command.
Give your cat a treat when it sits and has heard you say the command, even if your cat did not intentionally sit because you said “sit.” Your cat will begin to associate receiving the treat with the act of sitting, as well as with the command “sit”.
It’s important to praise your cat with words and pets as well as treats! The more positive reinforcement the better.
If your cat begins to grasp how to sit on command, it’s great to introduce a hand motion, too. Holding your hand (with a treat) above its head is a common hand motion for this trick. Your cat will look up at your hand and naturally be inclined to sit on its butt.

For More Tips on Training, Call the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill!

Cats are smart animals who naturally love to play, so training them can be fun enrichment for both you and your cat! If you’ve mastered how to train a cat to sit, then you can start moving on to other fun tricks, like high-five, shake, and even rolling over. The steps offered above work great for any tricks you want to teach your cat, but for more awesome training tips, or if you have questions about behavioral training, contact the experts at the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill! You can call us at 856-662-2662 or check out our blog for more tips and tricks about living with cats!

Why You Should Adopt A Cat in 2025

12.23.24

Pets are great companions and often lifelong friends. If you’re looking to add a furry friend to your family, you want to make sure you get an animal that fits your lifestyle and personality. That’s why the experts at Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill have a helpful list of why you should adopt a cat.

5 Reasons to Adopt a Cat in 2025

When it comes to furry animals, cats make great pets for a plethora of reasons:

Despite popular cat misconceptions, cats can be very cuddly and affectionate animals! Similar to dogs, they have their own personalities, quirks, and habits. While there are cats who may act indifferent or standoffish, most cats, like dogs, enjoy playtime, snuggles, and hanging out with you. If you’re looking for a cuddly companion to be your best friend, cats are a great option!
In terms of commitment, cats typically come with a lower level of maintenance than dogs. Although some cats might want just as much attention from you as a dog might, cats require slightly less hourly attention. Unlike dogs, cats take themselves to the bathroom, just like you! For the most part, they’re also fine being alone for a day and are prone to spending many hours sleeping.
One difference from dogs is that playtime can be more independent for cats. While many dogs rely on humans for their playtime, cats are often extremely independent when it comes to playing. They do enjoy playing with you, of course, but most can easily entertain themselves given the right toys!
Cats are also good bug and rodent deterrents! The natural predator instinct in cats means they love to catch mice, rats, and bugs of all kinds. You won’t have a rodent problem with a cat around.
Studies show cats are good for your mental health. Cats make great at-home support animals. They’re intelligent and know when you’re feeling down. A furry friend is a great way to boost mood and morale when you’re feeling low.

Looking to Adopt? Call the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill for Info

The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill always has information on cat adoption and often hosts or participates in adoption events. For more information on why you should adopt a cat, or to learn if a cat is the right pet for you, call the experts at the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill at 856-662-2662 today!