Blog - Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill

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!

How to Help Cats During the Holidays

12.23.24

The holiday season is here, which means you’re probably gearing up for all the cheery festivities! Whether you’re hosting guests or traveling away from home, the holidays can be a busy and stressful time for anyone — especially people with pets. For cat owners, the holidays can be a little tricky, especially if your cat doesn’t particularly like social gatherings and you plan on hosting a family get together. That’s why the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill has put together some tips for how to help cats during the holidays to get both you and your kitty through the season as happily as possible!

Helping Cats During the Holidays

Between food, guests, weather, and all the decorations, there are a lot of new and unfamiliar things that your kitty might encounter this holiday season. Here are a few tips for cat owners to help your cat get through the holidays with minimum stress:

Work with your cat’s social anxiety — If your cat isn’t a people-person or is pretty skittish, having a lot of guests over might stress them out. To help put your cat at ease, ensure they have their own quiet space away from people where they can hide and stay out of the way. Closing off the upstairs level of your home or even shutting them in your bedroom are great ways to give your cat their own temporary space to feel safe until the party is over.
Research what food is okay for cats — Your kitty might sniff out the food you’re preparing for the celebration, but be careful what they actually eat! Turkey skin, bones, and gravy might make your cat sick. If they’re curious, feed them a small bite of plain turkey meat and see how they react. If they’re okay in a few hours, another bite or two is probably okay, but make sure it’s bone-free.
Keep your cats away from toxic plants — Many holiday plants look great in your home, but they’re unfortunately toxic to kitties! Do your research on plants that are toxic to cats; to start with, cats should avoid interacting with poinsettias, lilies, and evergreen trees.
Be mindful of weather — Most cats don’t like the wet or the cold, but for the curious cat who does, snow isn’t a great idea. Your cat will be okay to poke around in the snow for a minute or two, but anything more than that and they could get sick. If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for your cat. Plus, if your cat’s fur gets too wet, it might not hold the heat as it’s supposed to. You don’t want your kitty to get hypothermia!

If Your Cat Seems Sick, Call the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill!

Even if you follow these tips on how to help cats during the holidays, remember that mistakes happen! We try our best to protect our kitties from the hazards that accompany the holidays, but we can’t always predict everything that might go wrong. If your cat eats something they shouldn’t or looks sick from the cold, contact your closest emergency vet immediately. For everything else, give the kitty experts at the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill a call! Schedule an appointment with us today at 856-662-2662.

Tips on How to Give a Cat Medication

11.13.24

If you have a cat, then you’re well-aware that cats are prone to doing what they want when they want, which means it can be difficult to hold them still or groom them. Unfortunately, this includes when we need to give them their medicine. Cats can be picky eaters who also won’t sit still, but what do you do when a cat needs to take a pill? Afterall, it’s for their own good! The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill is here with a few tips on how to give a cat medication so that your cat can be healthy and happy, and you can escape the experience unscathed.

4 Tips and Tricks For Giving a Cat Medication!

We know administering medication to your cat can feel like a daunting task for both you and your kitty, but fear not! It’s definitely possible, and can even be easy with these tips, tricks, and tools.

Similar to dogs, some kitties will take medication easily if you hide it in their food. Especially that wet food they love so much. If you’re giving them a solid pill, you can even cut it into smaller pieces so it’s easier to consume. For cats that always finish their meal, this is a great option to try.
If your cat is usually calm and doesn’t mind being held, you can also try to directly place the pill in their mouth. Gently hold their mouth closed and tilt the head back so they will swallow the pill. If you are administering medicine through a syringe, this will also be the method you’ll want to use.
When holding your cat, it’s best to make sure they are comfortable, either in your lap or on a surface. For some cats, it may be beneficial or necessary to wrap them in a blanket with just their head sticking out while you give them their meds. This will neutralize those sharp claws to keep you safe from scratches!
Lastly, you can also try a helpful tool called a pill plunger! They sell them at most pet stores, as well as online. It’s a neat little device that allows you to directly put the pill into your cat’s mouth without endangering your fingers on those sharp teeth.

Still Need Help? Speak with the Vet!

At the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill, we specialize in feline health, but giving cats their medication can be difficult even for our vets. Every cat is unique, so the same methods won’t always work for every cat! If you’re still struggling to give your cat the medication they need, give us a call at 856-662-2662. We are happy to walk you through the process, or give a demonstration at your cat’s appointment. Your cat’s health is our priority, and we want you to feel comfortable administering their at-home medication. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to our office! For more information about cat health, visit our blog!

Are Black Cats Bad Luck? Superstition Debunked

11.13.24

If you’re getting into superstitions this spooky season, you may be wondering, are black cats bad luck or is it just a myth? Of course, you probably know the answer! This is just an old superstition meant to scare! Black cats are no more lucky or unlucky than any other kitties. So how did this superstition surrounding black cats come about? Where did it start? And what does it mean for our feline friends? The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill can answer your questions on why black cats are considered bad omens.

Why Are Black Cats Considered Bad Omens?

The superstition around black cats didn’t just pop up out of nowhere! There are a few sources for why we consider black cats to be bad luck:

It’s popularly believed that the superstition about black cats first came to light in the Middle Ages. An old European folk tale tells the story of a man and his son who saw a limping black cat and decided to throw rocks at it. The cat ran for cover inside the home of a woman believed to be a witch, and when she appeared limping the next day similar to the injured black cat, the common people thought the witch must be the cat in disguise. Spooky!
In America, this superstition can be traced to a dark point in US history: the Salem witch trials. Black cats who belonged to women accused of witchcraft were seen as devilish and evil. Witches could even transform into black cats to slink in the shadows and cast evil spells on people while disguised.
Just like bats, black cats have long been associated with everyone’s favorite spooky villains: vampires!
To drive the superstition home, many other black animals were also seen as harbingers of doom. Ravens and crows have a reputation for being unlucky and malicious, probably due to their high intelligence and recognition of human faces, and this later transferred to black cats as well.

Bad Luck for Black Cats – Adopt a Black Cat Today!

While these superstitions might make for some spooky holiday fun for us, it’s not always good for black cats. This reputation as unlucky has unfortunately made black cats the least likely to be adopted among all cats. This Halloween, you might consider changing the luck for a black cat by adopting it into your forever home. Ask the professionals at Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill for more information on upcoming adoption events and how you might adopt a black kitty this Halloween. Call us at 856-662-2662 or visit our website!

Minimizing Cat Separation Anxiety

11.13.24

Summer is wrapping up and whether you’re starting to go back to school or the office, or you have a busier schedule coming up, you may be worrying about how your kitty will react when you’re not home with them as much. Leaving your cat alone can be a stressful experience and minimizing cat separation anxiety will make all the difference to your cat’s mental health! Experiencing separation anxiety is obviously not pleasant for your cat, but if your cat is making themself physically sick from separation anxiety, it’s time to call the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill to talk about some serious solutions. However, if your cat just needs some extra love and soothing, then a few simple steps can be taken to minimize the stress and keep your cat happy!

5 Tips For Minimizing Cat Separation Anxiety

Despite cats having a reputation for being independent pets, cat owners know that most cats can be clingy, too. If your clingy kitty has separation anxiety when you’re not around, try these tips to reduce their stress:

Make sure your cat has a view of the outside! Looking outside will prevent boredom, provide easy stimulation for your cat, and provide the sense they’re not all by themselves
Keep some sound on in the background while you’re gone. Low radio or TV will make your cat feel less alone.
Leave toys out that your kitty can play with on their own. Puzzle toys are great for independent play and can entertain your cat while you’re out
Catnip toys are a great tool for both entertaining your kitty and keeping them mellow. Or just give them a few catnip treats before you leave the house.
Have a professional kitty-sitter check in on your cat. Especially if you’re going away overnight, having someone check in on your cat daily will ensure your cat is safe, happy, and healthy.

Cat Still Anxious? Call Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill

If these tips don’t work or your cat’s anxiety is making them sick, more serious solutions or medication may be an option. The experts at the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill are here to help! For more information on cat separation anxiety or to schedule an appointment at the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill, give us a call at 856-662-2662.