Blog - Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill

How To: Keep Your Cat Calm for the Vet

07.12.19

We know better than most that all cats are different. But if there’s one thing that our feline friends seem to have in common, it’s an affinity for making every trip to the vet as difficult as possible. From fighting to get in the car to giving their owners the silent treatment post-visit, every cat handles a trip to the vet a little bit differently. Fortunately, there are some tried and true ways to keep your cat calm for the vet and make this process a whole lot less painful for you (and your pet!).

Play Doctor

No, we aren’t suggesting you take matters into your own hands when it comes to your cat’s health, but it can be helpful to get your cat used to being handled in a similar way to how they are handled when at the vet. Regularly handling your cat and performing brief check-ups can make the process of going to the vet more familiar (and therefore less scary) for your cat.

Get Out!

We know that cats make great housepets, but that’s no excuse to keep them cooped up all the time. If the only time your cat leaves the house is to visit the vet, they may begin to only associate their carrier and the car with a vet appointment. Simply taking your cat for a spin (even if it’s just around the neighborhood) can help them feel more comfortable in the car and their carrier, leading to a lot less protesting next time you visit the vet.

Check Yourself

Does going to the vet stress you out? Your cat can probably tell! By keeping calm and talking to your cat in soft, reassuring words with gentle petting, your cat won’t absorb your stress and will likely remain calm throughout the visit. Have questions? Your highly experienced cat veterinarian already knows the proper method of soothing and handling your feline friend, so follow their lead and your kitty will stay calm cool and collected on their next visit.

Are you still struggling to get your cat to the vet? Do you have other tips that help make the process easier? We want to know! Once you visit our practice, you are sure to find that the knowledgeable and caring staff at The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill have years of experience in making anxious felines feel completely at ease!

Do’s & Don’ts: Leaving Your Cat Home Alone

06.17.19

Schools are starting to let out and it’s about to officially be summer vacation. You’ve got your swimsuit, sunscreen, and beach reads packed but wait! What about your furry friends? If you’re not staying with a friend or at a pet-friendly hotel, bringing your cat on vacation probably isn’t an option. While leaving your cat home alone might be tempting, we highly advise against it.

Why Can’t I Leave My Cat Home Alone?

We get this question all the time. Your cat is so self-sufficient. They basically ignore you all day when you are home, so what does it matter if you leave them alone for a few days?

Emergencies

The last thing you want to think about is a disaster in your home while you’re on vacation, but it’s an important possibility to consider – especially when there is a pet at home. In the event of a fire, power outage, or other natural disaster, you want to be sure that your pet is safely evacuated and cared for in your absence.

Stress

You may think your pet doesn’t notice you when you’re there, but they actually do! When you leave for a long period of time – even just a long weekend – your pets notice your absence and the change in routine can be incredibly stressful! If you can’t be with your pet, the comfort of a friend, neighbor, or pet sitter will help keep your pet company and make your vacation less stressful for them.

Destruction

Pets make messes. When left unsupervised, no toilet paper roll, shoe, or piece of furniture is safe from their mischief. Leaving your cat alone for an entire vacation gives them a lot of time to scratch, chew, and attempt to destroy the contents of your home.

What Should I Do with My Cat when I Go On Vacation?

We hope that by now you’ve decided leaving your cat home alone for vacation is a bad idea, but what should you do instead? If you’re going on a short trip, or are having someone else watch your house, asking a friend or neighbor to look after your cat is a great option. For longer trips or if you don’t have anybody available, professional pet sitters and boarding lodges are excellent ways to ensure your kitty is cared for while you’re gone.

Need a recommendation? Want to check that your pet is in tip top shape before your summer vacay? The The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill is here to help! Contact us by calling (856) 662-2662 and set up an appointment today! Our caring doctors are eager to meet you and your pet.

Can I Get a Dog with a Cat at Home?

05.10.19

Fighting like cats and dogs: it’s a tale as old as time, and it leaves many cat owners wondering – can I get a dog with a cat at home? Believe it or not, cats and dogs can get along really well if given the opportunity. It takes work and patience but it’s well worth it in the end.

What to Expect

Your cat and dog could get along right from the start, but it’s important to understand some of the conflicts that may arise when you bring a new animal into your home. Dogs love to chase, and cats don’t like that so much and can get aggressive. Be sure to keep a close eye on your pets when they are getting to know each other, and be prepared to step in if your cat gets defensive. Introducing your pets to one another slowly and while under supervision is key to ensuring they don’t mistake play for aggression if things go too far.

How to Lay Down The Law

Just like you train your dog to sit and go to the bathroom outside, you train your dog to respect your cat. Do not allow the dog to chase, be aggressive (even if playful), or do other things that make your cat show signs of distress. Ensure your cat has safe areas to be away from your dog without being overstimulated. Over time, they will grow used to one another.

Keep In Mind

It is much easier to get a pair of animals to get along if they have similar personalities. Don’t bring a hyper dog home to your cranky cat, and vice versa.

At the end of the day, you can only do your best to hope that your pets get along. While they may never become BFF’s, with these tips you can know you tried your hardest to train them to behave and cohabitate peacefully.

The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill is here to assist you and your feline pal with the highest-quality medical services. Contact us by calling (856) 662-2662 and set up an appointment today! Our caring doctors are eager to meet you and your pet.

Our Top Tips to Keep Your Cat Cool this Summer

05.10.19

We’ve finally reached that time of year when warm weather is here to stay. From outdoor parties to long days at the beach, we humans know how to enjoy the warm weather, but remember to keep your feline friends in mind. Here are some strategies to keep your cat cool all summer long.

Check the Bedding

You’ve likely done a lot to keep you cat warm this winter with items like fuzzy blankets and fleece-lined beds, but it’s just as important to keep your cat cool with a summer-appropriate sleeping situation. From a cardboard box to a plastic bin, any insulation-free space is a great solution for keeping your cat cool this summer.

It’s Grooming Time

Cats may not need haircuts as often as dogs or even people, but it’s important to keep their coats under control during the summer. Sometimes all it takes is a good brushing to eliminate any excess fur built up from the winter, but a professional grooming never hurts!

Keeping Your Cool

It may be tempting to turn off your AC or close your windows when you leave the house for the day, but remember your cat is stuck inside while you’re at work! Try putting your air conditioning on a temperature setting so it switches on before it gets too hot, leaving screened windows and doors open, or drawing the curtains to block out the midday sun. These are all great ways to keep your cat (and your house!) cooler this summer.

Drink Up!

Just like you take care to stay hydrated on a hot summer day, leaving out enough water is key to keeping your cat cool this summer. Make sure there are plenty of places for your feline friend to drink from and keep them filled with fresh water at all times.

The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill is Here to Help Keep Your Cat Cool this Summer!

We want you to make the most out of the summer sun with your kitty and hope you’ll take the above tips to heart. If you notice your cat panting, confused, hiding, or lethargic, please give us a call as these can be signs of overheating and dehydration. Contact us by calling (865) 662-2662 or visit our office at 35 Haddonfield Road, Cherry Hill, NJ.

I’m Allergic to Cats: Can I Get a Hypoallergenic Cat?

03.13.19

While there is no such thing as a truly hypoallergenic cat, there are many breeds that are less likely to trigger a reaction. Though we heavily recommend against adopting a pet and “hoping for the best,” we think these guidelines may help you schedule a few kitty play dates to find the breed that’s right for you.

Bengal

Selectively bred to mimic the look of jungle cats, the Bengal is a surprisingly gentle creature. Known for their large spots and rosette patterns on their coat, the Bengal most closely resembles an ocelot or leopard – though we wouldn’t suggest inviting one of those jungle cats to live in your home. Fortunately, the Bengal is a friendly alternative that also produces less dander than some other breeds.

Balinese

Known for their strikingly blue eyes, Balinese cats are a natural mutation of the Siamese breed, another allergy friendly kitty. Widely considered the most intelligent long-haired cat, the Balinese produces low amounts of the Fel d1 protein, which is a common trigger for cat allergy sufferers.

Burmese

Originally bred in Southeast Asia, the Burmese cat is now a popular breed in the United States. The breed has evolved since its American introduction, and how has a slightly different head and body shape than the original, but all Burmese cats are known for being playful and vocal (and surprisingly low dander!).

Siamese

Native to Thailand, the Siamese cat is known for its blue, almond shaped eyes and triangular head topped with large ears. Siamese cats also typically have thin, sleek bodies and are affectionate and social.

Siberian

Hailing from Russia, Siberian cats sure do know how to make a statement. Their long, thick fur coats may not seem like a super allergy friendly option, but they are known to produce less Fel d1 than other breeds, making the risks of allergic reaction lower than one would imagine.

Don’t get discouraged if you have trouble finding a cat that doesn’t trigger your allergens. Every animal is different and we believe there’s a furry friend out there for everyone!

Be sure to check back here for more cat facts and quick tips, and keep the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill in mind if you find a furry friend who needs medical services or a check-up. Give us a call at (856) 662 2662 and one of our passionate doctors would be happy to help you.

How to Have a Healthy Cat

02.11.19

You know the tips and tricks to stay healthy as a human. Brush and floss your teeth, bathe regularly, comb your hair, and keep a healthy diet – but do you know how to make sure you have a healthy cat?

Don’t wait until it’s too late and you have to make an emergency trip to the cat veterinarian. Study up and learn how to incorporate simple routines into your furry friend’s day to make sure they are as healthy and happy as they deserve to be!

Dental Care

Your cat can’t brush their own teeth, and they may not respond too well to you trying to brush their teeth for them, but you have to do something to prioritize the oral health of your kitty. The best thing you can do is try to brush their teeth at an early age so that they are used to the idea and don’t make things difficult for you as they get older. Still having trouble? Leave it up to your capable cat veterinarian.

Get Physical

Just like people, cats usually don’t get enough exercise. Encouraging daily play time can help keep your kitty in tip top shape to avoid gaining weight and other health problems down the road. Make sure your cat has plenty of toys to play on their own during the day, but also set aside time to play with them, it’s a great way to bond with your pet and keep them healthy!

Daily Grooming

Just like you brush your hair every day (we hope) your kitty’s coat needs the same daily TLC. Though they do a pretty good job on their own, sitting down to give your cat a nice comb through can cut down on the number of hairballs you both have to deal with.
These daily tasks combined with regular appointments with an experienced cat veterinarian are the key to keeping your kitty bright eyed and bushy tailed for a long and happy life with you. Is it time for your cat’s annual appointment? Contact Us to schedule.

New Year’s Resolutions – Keeping Yourself (And Your Cat) Healthy

01.11.19

The New Year is a popular time to make resolutions and start a new journey to a healthier you. Unfortunately, most people give up on their New Year’s resolutions in the first two weeks. That’s why this year, we came up with 3 great ways you can team up with your cat to pursue a happier, healthier New Year.

Waking up Earlier

We could all use more time in the day, and for some, all that means is waking up a bit earlier each morning. By moving up the time you feed your cat in the morning, you’ll have extra motivation to wake up earlier and start your day – plus a hungry cat isn’t likely to let you sleep in too much.

Losing Weight

When you’re trying to slim down after a sumptuous holiday season, sometimes it’s the little things that mean the most! When you (or your cat) need to drop a few pounds, cut back on the treats and between-meals snacks and do something else instead! Playing with your cuddly cat can be just as rewarding as a bag of chips (and may have a more positive impact on your waistline).

Getting More Exercise

A great goal for the New Year is to be more active, though that’s often easier said than done! Up your activity this year by taking walks – your cat can come, too! Not only is this a great way to bond with your kitty; walking your cat is a great way to sneak in some extra exercise and enjoy the great outdoors!

What kinds of resolutions have you made this year? Do you think adding your cat as an accountability partner will help you stick to them longer? Let us know!

To formulate a comprehensive weight-loss plan for your cat, there’s no better resource than your local Cherry Hill cat veterinarian. We look forward to making your cat’s health our number-one priority! Come pay us a visit or get in touch today!

Christmas Gift Ideas for Your Cat

11.24.18

The stockings are hung, the garlands are strung, glimmering tinsel is dangling from each branch of the tree in the living room—it’s almost too much for any cat to resist. It stands to reason that they deserve some kind of reward for resisting temptation (or at least trying to) all through the holiday season. After all, everyone loves getting presents on Christmas morning…even our pets! If you want to make it a very “meowy” Christmas for your favorite feline, we at The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill have a few great gift suggestions that they’re sure to enjoy.

A new scratching post: If the current scratching post has become a bit of an eyesore after too much wear and tear, it may be time to upgrade it (before the couch starts getting some unwanted attention from your little Santa Claws).
A heated bed: Anyone who has ever had a furry friend curl up on their laptop can attest that cats are drawn to warmth wherever they can find it. As temperatures drop and sunny spots in the house get fewer and fewer, your cat will appreciate a warm place where they can curl up and nap.
Catnip toys – You can buy these at basically any pet store, or you can make them yourself. Check out how to tackle this simple and fun project here! This article gives you six ideas for the craft.
And for those looking to save some money: Stay thrifty with balled up wrapping paper from the rest of the family’s gifts! One of the best things about owning a cat is that they are very easily entertained and can make a toy out of nearly any object, whether it’s a piece of string or a moving spot of light.

Give Them the Gift of Good Health

As much as your feline family member would prefer a catnip-filled mouse toy over a trip to the vet, the best thing you can give him or her is a yearly medical checkup at the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill. Here’s what one happy patient said about his experience bringing his beloved cat to our office:

“Dr. McCauley is the best veterinarian I’ve ever taken a cat to! The entire staff is kind, knowledgeable, and caring! They understand cats and treat them with such compassion that it feels like they love my cat as much as I do! I will never go anywhere but here! The prices are so reasonable but I’d pay anything to this practice as they are really unbelievable! Makes me believe there are still wonderful doctors in the world, and they are here!”

If it’s time to bring your kitty in for a checkup, don’t hesitate to contact us and schedule an appointment! Give the office a call at (856) 662-2662 or visit us at 35 Haddonfield Road, Cherry Hill, New Jersey.

Unusual Cat Myths for Halloween

10.29.18

halloween the cat clinic at cherry hill

Gather round the fire for these fun feline tales! During this spooky and superstitious time of year, most stories involving cats depict them as evil omens or the eerie companions of witches. Rather than dwell on the typical bad-luck black cat stereotype, The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill has gathered up a few legends that paint our four-legged friends in a less villainous light.

Cat Stories from Around the World

Buddhist belief: A sect of Buddhism once practiced in former kingdoms of Siam and Burma believed that when you die (if you were holy enough), your soul is placed in a cat for safekeeping. Later, when the cat passes away, that soul ascends to paradise. This sect of Buddhism reveres cats as a result and often has depictions of them sleeping at the feet of statues of Buddha. In Thailand (once Siam), they still observe a ritual of presenting a live (Siamese) cat adorned in gold jewelry to each new Thai king during his coronation. It is thought that the spirit of the old king can witness the new king’s coronation through the cat’s eyes.

English belief: It was once believed that cats were able to predict the weather—by observing your resident feline’s behavior, you could get some clues on the daily forecast! Clawing at carpets or curtains signaled windy weather ahead. A rigorous grooming of the ears meant rain was on the way—as did staring out the window or sleeping with all four paws tucked under his or her body. The Welsh believed that when a cat’s pupils expanded, a storm was approaching.

Scandinavian belief: Referring to Norwegian Forest Cats in particular, people believed these felines were the favorite animals of Freyja, the goddess of love and fertility. Giving a black cat to newlyweds was considered good luck, and farmers who hoped for bountiful harvests would leave dishes of milk outside for the fortuitous felines. We can’t be sure that actually helped their harvest, but there’s no doubt it solved any mouse infestations in the farmers’ barns!

Bring Your Favorite Feline to The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill

No matter your cat’s backstory or supernatural abilities, it’s important to bring him to a reputable cat veterinarian for yearly health checks. Wondering if the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill is the best place for your pet? We come highly recommended by our clients:

“We are so glad to have found Dr. McCauley and everyone at the Cat Clinic. Our four kitties are much less stressed during and after their visits. All of our questions and concerns are answered with patience and good humor, and we learn what we need to do to keep our kitties healthy for many years yet to come. We are from Philly and are happy to cross the bridge to Cherry Hill it is worth it. Thanks guys.” – Nellie J.

Give us a call at (856) 662-2662 if you’d like to set up an appointment for your cat! Or, check out where we are located and visit us at the office. We’d be happy to meet you and your furry family member!

Fall Decor Concerns for Cats

09.30.18

Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill

There is so much to love about fall—and so many ways to decorate the house accordingly. Break out the scented candles, the dried corn stalks for the front porch, and the mini pumpkins for every table in the house! Keep in mind, however, that many of these decorations are tempting toys (or tasty-looking tidbits) for your favorite feline. So how should you take your pet into consideration when transforming your home into a festive autumn wonderland? The experts at The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill can share some tips.

Knickknacks, Snacks, and Garlands Galore

Be cautious with candles – Who doesn’t love the soft glow and spicy scent of a seasonal candle? When you’re a cat owner, you know that a lit candle is not something you can leave unattended for long. Kitties have a habit of knocking things over when exploring tables and countertops (especially when your cat is active at night), and the last thing you want is a house fire from the pumpkin-spiced candle being pushed onto the carpet.
Choose flowers with care – Chrysanthemums, though the quintessential fall flower, are actually toxic to cats and can cause vomiting, digestive problems, agitation, and breathing difficulties. Wondering which plants are safe to keep in the house? Consult this helpful list of plants toxic to cats from the ASPCA.
Keep candies out of reach – A colorful bowl of M&Ms or candy corn is a sweet touch for your home’s autumnal atmosphere, but it’s no secret that cats and chocolate do not mix. And while sugar in general isn’t fatal for felines, it still isn’t healthy for them to consume. You want your cat to stay fit! To keep the candy bowl inaccessible to kitties, a heavy or sealable lid should do the trick.
Beware of small parts – That garland of miniature wooden pumpkins might be an adorable addition to your mantel, but it probably won’t be long until a furry paw swipes it to the ground. Examine your decorations and ask yourself, “If the cat got ahold of this, could it possibly be a choking hazard?” It might be best to reserve garlands only for rooms where pets aren’t permitted…or play it safe and skip them altogether.

Those are just a few ways you can protect your cat while still adding some fall pizzazz to your home. Happy decorating!

Choose The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill

An easy way to prevent illnesses and ailments—whether they’re caused by decoration disasters or not—is to bring your cat to the vet annually for wellness checkups or other medical services. We encourage you to get in touch today to set up an appointment for your feline family member! We can be reached at (856) 662-2662. You can also come pay us a visit to check out our office in person; we are located at 35 Haddonfield Road, Cherry Hill, New Jersey. See you soon!