Blog - Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill

Holiday Advice for Cat Owners

09.22.23

The big holiday months are just around the corner, which means you’re probably gearing up for all the festivities! From cooking and decorating to hosting guests, the holidays can be a busy and stressful time for anyone, let alone 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 holiday advice for cat owners that will help get both you and your kitty through the season as happily as possible!

Best Advice for Cat Owners at the Holidays

Between decorations, weather, guests, and food, there are a lot of new and unfamiliar things that your kitty might encounter this holiday season. Here is some holiday advice for cat owners to help your cat adjust:

Know 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 before buying a plant to put in your home, but to start with, cats should avoid interacting with poinsettias, lilies, and evergreen trees.
Manage your cat’s social anxiety — If your cat isn’t a people-person, having a lot of guests over may stress them out. To help your cat remain calm, 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 until the party is over.
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 your cat 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 this holiday advice for cat owners, we all make mistakes! We try our best to protect our kitties from the hazards that accompany the holidays, but sometimes mistakes happen. 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.

Cat-Friendly Fall Decorating Tips

08.25.23

With the changing of the weather comes the fall season! There are so many occasions to celebrate during autumn, which always means fun decorations. However, for those with pets, we want to make sure they’re safe and we aren’t accidentally putting them in danger. That’s why the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill has some cat-friendly fall decorating tips that will help you keep your best friend happy and healthy during the autumnal months!

4 Tips for Cat-Friendly Fall Decorating

Fall decorations can be fun and spooky, but one scare we don’t want is our cat getting sick or hurt. Here are some tips on keeping your cat safe this autumn:

Keep candy and sweets out of reach– Everyone loves fall treats! Whether it’s candy or baked goods, autumn flavors can’t be beat. However, chocolate and candy isn’t great for your cat to eat. Keep them out of reach in a cabinet or in a bowl that you can cover with a snap-on lid so your cats don’t eat something they shouldn’t.
Be very careful about candles and open flame – Fall candle scents are unmatched, whether it’s pumpkin spice or cozy autumn leaves. However, 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, and the last thing you want is a house fire from the pumpkin-spiced candle being pushed onto the carpet. If you do light candles, always keep them within your line of sight and blow them out when you’re walking away.
Know which flowers are toxic to cats – 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? Check out our blog post about living with both cats and plants here!
Be careful with small decorations – A lot of people really get into decorating their house for Halloween and autumn, however, make sure you keep small decorations out of reach of cats. Cats are known to knock things over and even try to chomp on small knick knacks. Such things are better kept in rooms unavailable to kitties or outside to prevent your cat from choking or otherwise hurting itself.

Choose The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill

If these cat-friendly fall decorating tips still have left you unsure, then it’s best to consult a vet! At the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill, we’re always happy to answer any questions you have about cat health and behavior. Plus, 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, so give us a call!

Can House Cats Go Outside?

07.23.23

Summer is flying by, which means beautiful autumn weather is just about here! The humidity is dying down and you’re ready to brave sitting outside once again. But you’re not the only one longing for some fresh air. What about your cat? Sometimes you can’t help wondering if maybe you should just let it out to explore. Can house cats go outside? Unfortunately, it’s best you keep the door closed on your furry friend.

Why House Cats Shouldn’t Go Outside

The debate on indoor vs outdoor cats isn’t a new one. We see cats outdoors all the time! However, the predominant conclusion about letting your house cat visit the great outdoors is a pretty resounding negative. Here are a few reasons why:

The most obvious reason is your cat might wander too far. Our biggest fear about letting our cats outside is that they might go where they shouldn’t and we’ll lose them, or worse, they get hit by a car. Keep your cat safe by keeping them inside.
The second most-concerning reason to keep your cat inside is that they’re prone to pick up disease when outside. Just a few of the diseases they might bring back include Feline AIDS (FIV), Feline Leukemia (FeLV), and respiratory infections. Even though our cats are vaxxed against some of these, there is always a risk.
Don’t forget bugs. Cats can bring back fleas, ticks, and ringworm just like dogs can. And unfortunately, kitties aren’t as happy to bathe as a dog might be.
Predators. Your cat is a natural born hunter. They might hunt birds, bugs, mice, small frogs, and more. This has a large impact on local wildlife habitats that is unfortunately for the worse and can really affect your local ecosystem.
Lastly, while your cat is hunting, your cat may also be hunted. Coyotes, hawks, and other medium-to-large predators are always on the lookout for cats and small dogs. Protect your cat by keeping it inside!

Indoor Cats Live Longer Lives

Your furry friend can have a longer life with you when it stays indoors. Danger from cars, disease, parasites, and predators are just a few factors that contribute to much shorter life expectancies for outdoor cats. If you choose to let your cat outside, it’s best to do so minimally and to keep them on a harness and leash. They also will need to visit the vet regularly for checkups and vaccinations. Schedule regular appointments with The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill to make sure your cat is still as healthy as possible after it has spent some time outside. Still not sure whether to let your cat outside? Call 856-662-2662 and talk to us to learn more!

Stop Cats from Scratching Furniture

06.25.23

If you have a kitty, then you’re probably fully aware that it doesn’t matter how many toys you’ve given your cat; they still want to scratch up your furniture. It’s okay. It’s happened to the best of us. You’ve provided your cat with the most enticing scratching post or tree you can imagine, but they don’t seem interested. If you’re wondering how to stop cats from scratching furniture then you’ve come to the right place! The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill can help you understand why your cat is scratching and how to help them stop!

How To Stop Cats from Scratching Furniture

First, you’re probably wondering why our cat wants to scratch and why they won’t use their brand new cat tree! Well, the most obvious reason your cat keeps scratching is because they’re trying to remove the outer layer of their claws. Maybe they’re too sharp and the outer layer is likely dead. You can help them out by cutting their nails. Check out our post on that here! Great, but what if your cat is still headed toward the furniture? Here’s a few tips to help them stop scratching:

First, you can usually prevent your cat from scratching things you don’t want them to scratch by putting gentle sticky tape, foil, or sandpaper on them. Your cat won’t like the texture. You can also put an unfavorable odor on the objects with cotton balls. You can buy these at most pet stores.
Cats will often choose to scratch things as a way of marking their territory. If possible, try not to hide the scratching posts and cat trees in the corner of the room. Your cat might be choosing your couch because it’s the center of attention. A little rearranging of your room’s layout might be just the thing to get your kitty to stop scratching.
To help your cat get used to scratching something acceptable, put it at the same height they usually scratch and place it near an object they tend to scratch. So if your cat is scratching the corner of your armchair, put your scratching posts near the chair and ensure it’s at a similar height where they usually scratch. Once your cat is used to the new scratching post or tree, you can start to move it away little by little, but it’s often best to keep it in a close spot. You don’t want your cat to return to old habits.

Cat Still Scratching? Call the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill!

If your cat continues to scratch, there might be a deeper behavioral or even health issue with your kitty. It’s best to talk to your vet. The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill can help you understand why your cat keeps scratching. Give us a call at 856-662-2662 to schedule an appointment or to speak with a vet on why your cat might continue to scratch.

Help Cats Stay Cool When It’s Hot

05.23.23

If you have cats, you know they love to laze about on windowsills and in sunspots. Cats love to be warm and cozy! However, like most household pets, if they’re overheating during the summer, it can be dangerous for their health! That’s why the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill has compiled some important tips on how to help cats stay cool when it’s hot outside!

Tips to Help Cats Stay Cool During Summer

If you have air conditioning, keeping your cat cool shouldn’t be a problem! But for those who have limited or no AC, here are some hot tips for helping your kitty stay cool during hot summer months:

The biggest 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
Try a cooling mat – 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.
Try ice treats! Recipes for kitty-friendly ice treats like this one are a healthy and cool snack your cat will love!
Playtime – Yes, your cat can be cool even when 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.
If your cat does go outside, make sure they have a shady spot to avoid the sun and you should watch for overheating and dry-skin, which can indicate sunburn

The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill is Here for You!

If you notice your cat is overheating 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.

The Best Cat Vet in Cherry Hill, NJ

04.23.23

For most pet owners, their pets are their best friends. And when it comes to the health of your best friend, you want nothing but the best care possible! If you’re looking for the best cat vet in Cherry Hill, then look no further than the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill! We are a specialized veterinarian’s office with expertise in cat healthcare!

Specialized Care for Your Special Friend

When it comes to your cat, you want to provide them with nothing but the best! That’s why the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill specializes in cat healthcare:

The vets and vet techs at our office are experts in cat treatment and care. We provide both care for your cat and 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!
Dr. John McCauley has been a feline specialist for over two decades. It was always his dream to open a specialized clinic like the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill, and he continues to be devoted to providing the best medical and surgical care for every kitty that comes through the door.
Our support staff is compassionate, friendly, and genuine. We know talking about your kitty’s health can be anxiety-inducing and stressful. We will never respond with rudeness or impatience when our clients have questions, and we are often willing to go the extra mile to ensure that your experience here is as positive and low-stress as possible. We do our best to educate you on the specifics of your cat’s health and treatment plan.
Our blog provides an educational space for you if you have further questions or curiosities about cat care and health!

Your Best Friend Deserves the Best – Choose the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill

When you choose the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill, we promise not only to provide the best care possible for your kitty, but also peace of mind that we have your cat’s best interests at heart. 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! The highly experienced professionals at our office can be trusted to provide the very best care, every time, which is why we are the best cat vet in Cherry Hill. Set up an appointment with us today by calling (856) 662-2662.

How to Brush Your Cat’s Teeth

03.28.23

If you have a cat, you know they’re notorious for having 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, you don’t have to wait for a groomer or vet to brush your cat’s teeth! So check out how to brush your cat’s teeth to keep your kitty happy and healthy!

Follow These Tips to Brush Your Cat’s Teeth

Brushing your cat’s teeth may seem like a herculean task, 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. Toothbrushes and cat-friendly toothpaste can both be found at most pet stores. Remember to never use human toothpaste or similar products like baking soda or mouthwash. These are not safe for your kitty!
To start, make sure your cat is as comfortable as possible. Sit them in your lap or in one of their favorite places. You may even try easing them into the situation with a little catnip for the nerves.
Especially the first time you brush their teeth, introduce your cat to the process 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!
Brushing is a two-handed activity. 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.
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! 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

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!

Keep Cats Calm for the Vet

02.03.23

When it comes to visiting the vet, most pets aren’t too keen to take the trip. However, we know more than most that cats can prove especially difficult. From the carrier to the fighting to get in the car to post-visit grumpiness, every cat handles a trip to the vet a little bit differently. Fortunately, there are some tried and true ways to keep cats calm for the vet and make this process a whole lot less painful both for your kitty and for you!

Tips on How to Keep Cats Calm for the Vet

Your cat might not like a trip in the car, so they might start to get anxious as soon as you get the carrier out. That’s okay! Here are a few things to help get your cat accustomed to all the things a vet trip might entail:

Set the carrier out in advance – your kitty knows when the carrier comes out, it’s time for a trip, so try setting the carrier out in advance or making it part of your kitty’s normal environment. This will help them get accustomed to seeing the carrier and even being inside it
Handle your kitty the way the vet might – if your cat is used to being examined or groomed, a trip to the vet won’t be so anxiety inducing. Ask your vet for tips on how to cut nails, examine their bellies and mouths, and properly handle your cat. By the time they’re seeing the vet, they’ll be used to it!
Don’t let your own stress show – your vibe is contagious! If you’re stressed about the visit, your cat will mirror it. Keep calm and reassure your cat with pets, soft words, and treats. Your stress will be one less thing for your kitty to worry about!

Need a Great Cat Vet? Try the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill!

If you’re struggling to find a great vet for your cat, then look no further. The vets at the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill are experienced cat experts who know exactly how to keep your kitty calm, cool, and collected. 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! For more information on cats or our practice, call us at 856-662-2662 or follow our blog!

How to Build Trust with Cats

01.09.23

Like any relationship you have in your life, the one you share with your cat requires work and patience! Cats, like humans, have feelings and fears that guide their actions. Whether you’re a new cat owner or have had cats your whole life, it’s important to foster a healthy relationship with your cat so you both can live a happy life together! That’s why the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill is here to help show you how to build trust with cats so you can create a relationship based on confidence and faith with your feline friend.

Tips for Building Trust with Cats

Whether your cat is outgoing or shy, cuddly or independent, building trust with your cat is essential for a peaceful home! Here are a few tips to help you lay a healthy relationship with your kitty:

Let your cat take the lead – like any relationship in your life, it’s not helpful to force anything. Let your cat come to you on its own terms. Your cat is always picking up on your social cues and trying to learn the best way to interact with you!
Understand your cat’s limits – Some cats will want to cuddle you 24/7, while other cats will be very particular about when and where you touch them. Take your time learning what they like and respect their limits.
Respect your kitty’s space – Especially if you’ve just brought your kitten home for the first time, it’s important to let your cat navigate your home on its own time. They’ll establish their favorite places and will come to you when they’re ready for attention.
Reward your cat with positive reinforcement – This is not only a great way to train cats, but can be helpful in guiding your cat to understand what makes you happy! Using treats or petting them after a positive interaction will do wonders in building trust and establishing what you both enjoy!

Got Cat Questions? Contact the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill!

Cats, like humans, are complex creatures with unique personalities and behaviors. Knowing how to build trust with cats is a great first step in understanding their wants and needs! For more information on cat behaviors or cat health, you can contact the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill at 856-662-2662. You can also follow our blog for more helpful tips, tricks, and helpful hints!

Should I Adopt a Cat This Year?

12.02.22

If you’re looking to adopt a furry friend in the upcoming year, you can’t go wrong with adopting a cat! As far as domestic pets go, they can be one of the best additions to your family. Not only are they relatively low-maintenance, they can live upwards of twenty years, making them life-long friends and the perfect companion. If you’re a first time cat-owner though, you may still be wondering “should I adopt a cat?”. Worry not! The cat experts at Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill have compiled a helpful list of reasons you should adopt a cat this year.

Why You Should Adopt a Cat

When it comes to pets, cats are one of the best options out there! Here’s why:

If you are looking for an animal with a longer lifespan, cats are the way to go! Their average lifespan is anywhere from 12-18 years, but some live into their twenties!
Cats are also a very low-maintenance pet who provide a little more freedom for when you have plans. Traditionally, cats require a lower level of commitment than dogs. Although cats do need playtime, cuddles, and attention, most cats require slightly less consistent maintenance. Unlike dogs, cats take themselves to the bathroom, just like you and can be pretty independent players! They also typically don’t mind sleeping most of the day away, so don’t feel guilty about any plans that take you out of the house. Your kitty is fine by itself for a few hours.
Despite all the stereotypes, cats can be pretty affectionate animals! Similar to most pets, they have their own personalities ranging from needy to independent. Most cats enjoy playtime, cuddles, and just hanging out with you. If you’re looking for a snuggly companion to keep you company, a cat is the pet for you!
Cats are scientifically proven to be 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.

The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill Can Help You with Adoption

The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill always has information on cat adoption and often hosts or participates in adoption events all year ‘round! For more information on cat adoption, or if you’re still wondering “should I adopt a cat?”, call the experts at the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill at 856-662-2662 today!