Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill

How to Reduce Cat Separation Anxiety

cat separation anxiety

Does Your Cat Have Separation Anxiety?

Summer is finally here and whether you’re starting to go back to the office after working from home, or it’s just time for you to take a much-needed vacation, you may be worrying about how your kitty will react when you’re not with them as much. Leaving your cat alone can be a stressful experience and cat separation anxiety is no joke! Experiencing separation anxiety is obviously not pleasant for your cat, but if your cat becomes physically ill 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 soothing, then a few simple steps can be taken to minimize the stress and keep your cat happy!

Tips For Reducing 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:

  • Keep sound on in the background while you’re gone. Low radio or TV will make your cat feel less alone.
  • Make sure your cat can look outside! Looking outside will prevent boredom and give your cat something new to look at.
  • Leave toys out that your kitty can play with on their own. Balls and puzzle toys are great for independent play. 
  • 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.

Major Anxiety? 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. 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. 

Cats and Plants – Can I Have Both?

cats and plants

Are Plants Toxic to Cats?

If you’re a cat owner and want to add some greenery to your home, the good news is it’s totally possible! Cats and plants can coexist! However, there are some plants and flowers that are unfortunately toxic to kitties. Here are a few plants and flowers that will make your kitty sick:

  • Daffodils
  • Lilies 
  • Hyacinths
  • Aloe
  • Azalea
  • Cycas like Sago Palm
  • More – Always double check before buying a plant whether it’s toxic to cats

Tips for Living with Plants and Cats

Despite some plants being toxic to your furry friend, it’s 100% possible to have plants in a home with cats. Here are some tips from the experts at the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill on how to live with both:

  1. Like we stated before, always verify before buying if a plant is toxic to cats
  2. Slowly introduce your cats to plants and see how they react. If they’re largely uninterested, plant to your heart’s content. Train your cats to avoid your greenery as you introduce them to your plants
  3. Hanging plants are a great way to keep your plants out of reach of animals and even children! Just make sure they’re not by any ledges your cat could climb on to reach them
  4. Plant in large/heavy pots so that your cat won’t tip them over
  5. Most cats dislike certain smells or odors. Spray cat repellent scents near your plants to deter your cats. Most pet stores will offer anti-cat odor sprays
  6. If your cat loves to dig, put sticky tape or wire around your potted plants. Your cat won’t like stepping on the material and will avoid coming close to your plant
  7. Get your cat their own plants to play with – cat grass is like catnip and your cat will love it! 
  8. Keep up with plant maintenance – if leaves become long, your cat might mistake them for a toy
  9. If your cat eats your plants, look for signs of lethargy, dehydration, throwing up, and stomach ache. If your cat is sick, call your vet and take them to the closest animal ER.

Want More Info?

The kitty experts at the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill are here for you! For more information on what plants are toxic or nontoxic to cats, or to learn more about how plants and cats can coexist, visit our website or call us at 856-662-2662. You can also check out our blog for more great tips, tricks, and info about cats!

Reasons to Adopt a Cat

reasons to adopt a cat

So You Want a Pet… What about a Cat?

Pets are great companions and often lifelong friends. If you’re looking to add a pet 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 reasons to adopt a cat.

5 Reasons to Give a Kitty a Forever Home

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

  1. Despite popular stereotypes, cats are very affectionate animals! Similar to dogs, they have their own personalities. While there are cats who may act cold and standoffish, most cats 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!
  2. Typically, cats are a lower level of commitment than dogs. Although cats might want just as much attention from you as a dog might, cats require slightly less hourly maintenance. Unlike dogs, cats take themselves to the bathroom, just like you! For the most part, they’re also fine being alone for a day.
  3. Playtime can be more independent. 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!
  4. Good bug and rodent deterrents! Cats love to catch mice, rats, and bugs of all kinds. You won’t have a rodent problem with a cat around.
  5. 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 adoption, 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 Exercise a Cat

how to exercise a cat

New Year’s Resolutions for Your Cat?

Happy New Year! We’ve all got a few resolutions we’re working on this year, and for many of us, that includes trying to live a healthier life. If you’ve got a cat at home, you want them to be healthy too! However, kitties love treats and they don’t always love exercise. You may be wondering if it’s even possible to exercise your cat. Cats do love to play but can often get bored quickly and flop right down after two minutes of playtime! Here’s a few tips on how to exercise a cat from your friends at The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill.

A Few Tips on How to Exercise a Cat

Playtime is exercise time, but what do you do when your cat gets bored quickly or just isn’t interested? Here are a few tips on how to exercise a cat:

  • Short sessions a few times per day – Your cat may have a short attention span (don’t we all?), so 10-15 minutes of playtime is all your cat may be interested in. That’s okay! Try playing a few times per day if you have a few minutes here and there. Repeated playtime isn’t just great for your cat’s physical health, but for their mental health, too!
  • Change up the environment – Your cat might just be bored playing in the same area every day. Add new obstacles and toys every once in awhile to liven things up. Switching out your scratching post for a new cat tree may just be the boost your cat needs to feel interested again.
  • Try puzzle toys – Feathers and laser pointers are great, but a bored cat (or a lazy one) might just feel they’ve outsmarted that toy already. Puzzle toys will keep a mindful cat’s interest for longer.
  • Let their toys be the prey – Your cat is a natural predator! They will want to bite, chew, scratch, and chase. If you want your cat to exercise, encouraging this behavior is a great idea! Be prepared for them to chew up or destroy their toys just as you might expect with a dog. It’s natural and not only will it help them stay active, but you’ll notice they’re happier as well!

Concerned for Your Cat’s Health? Call the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill

If you’re having trouble getting your cat to exercise, or you’re concerned about their health, eating habits, or weight, it’s time to talk to the vet! Call the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill for more information on how to exercise a cat, our medical services, or to schedule to an appointment at 856-662-2662.

How to Keep Cats from Jumping on Counters

Cats and Counters – Keep off!

Whether you’re a new cat owner or a cat-owning veteran, keeping your cats from jumping on counters is a huge challenge. It’s in a cat’s nature to be up high, to play, and to treat your house as a jungle gym. However, we don’t always want our cats jumping up on our furniture, especially counters and tables where we eat or keep food. If you’re wondering how to keep cats from jumping on counters, look no further! The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill has a few tips and tricks to prevent your cats from having free range of counters, tables, and other places you don’t want them jumping.

Tips and Tricks on How to Keep Cats from Jumping on Counters

Your cat may think they own the place, but that doesn’t mean you can’t set some boundaries on places they’re allowed to go. Here are a few ways on how to keep cats from jumping on counters:

  1. First, give your cat another outlet for their desire to climb and be up high. Cats love cat trees! If you provide a cat tree or other high-up place (such as a designated shelf), your cat may become so fond of it that they don’t bother with your counters. Make the cat tree comfortable and attractive – leave a soft bed, toys, and treats there for your cat to find.
  2. As a backup or if your cat doesn’t take to a cat tree right away, try making your counter an unattractive place for your kitty. Remove food, small objects, and anything else that may be attracting your cat’s curiosity.
  3. You can also try putting (mildly) sticky tape up on your counter. When they try to jump up, they won’t like the feeling of the tape on their paws and eventually your cat likely won’t want to jump up anymore.
  4. Another product cats don’t like the feeling or sound of is aluminum foil. If sticky tape doesn’t work, try tin foil.
  5. When your cat jumps on a place that you deem acceptable, it’s important to let your cat know they’re doing a great job so they can tell the difference between good places to jump and bad. Treats, pets, and positive tone-inflection in your voice will help your cat learn what places are good for jumping.

Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill and Your Kitty

If you’re still having behavioral issues with your kitty, it might help to talk to a vet. They can offer ideas or refer you to a cat trainer who can help. For more information on how to keep cats from jumping on counters, or to schedule an appointment with us, call the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill at 856-662-2662.

Can I Cut My Cat’s Nails?

My Cat’s Nails are Getting Long – Is It Okay to Cut Them?

If you’re a first-time cat-owner, you may begin to notice pretty early-on that your cat’s nails are starting to get long. You might be wondering “is it okay to cut my cat’s nails?” The answer is yes! Not only is it okay, cutting your cat’s nails is something you should definitely do to keep your kitty happiest and to avoid them scratching both you and your furniture. Your vet is happy to trim your cat’s nails for you, but it might cost extra and typically needs to be done more often than you might bring your cat in for their checkup. Plus, clipping your kitty’s nails is an easy task that you can do at home!

How Do I Trim My Cat’s Nails?

Trimming your cat’s nails does take some practice, on both your part and your kitty’s. But we’ve put together a helpful guide to make it easier.

  1. Choose a good set of clippers. There are a few types of kitty nail clippers you can get at the store, but it’s also acceptable to use human nail clippers! Just make sure any clippers you use aren’t dull or rusty.
  2. For best results, introduce your cat to the concept of nail trimming when they’re young. The more familiar they are with the clippers and the idea of you clipping their nails, the more willing and calm they will be when it’s time to clip. You can get your cat used to the clippers using treats.
  3. You will need to use your fingers to massage the nail out of the paw. The claws are retractable, so your kitty’s nails will be hiding until you push and hold them far enough out to cut.
  4. Cutting your cat’s nails is similar to cutting your nails… you just squeeze the clippers over the long part and clip!
  5. However, it is important that you do not cut down to the quick. The quick is the pink part inside the nail. This is the sensitive area where the cat’s nerves are. Just cut the white part of the nail. Remember: it’s better to be safe and cut less if you’re afraid of cutting the quick.

Need More Help? Call the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill

Cutting your cat’s nails is a grooming activity you can do at home, but when in doubt, call the vet. At The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill, we are more than happy to guide you on the best way to cut your cat’s nails. For more information on the proper way to cut your cat’s nails or to schedule a vet appointment with us, call at 856-662-2662.

Why Does My Cat Keep Scratching Everything?

cat scratching

Why Your Cat is Scratching Your Furniture

All cat owners have been there: you just bought your cat the newest, coolest, and most scratchable cat tree there is to offer. And yet, your cat continues to sink her claws into the couch. You’ve given your kitty every kind of toy and scratching tool to make this stop, yet you’re still wondering “why does my cat keep scratching everything”? It’s an age-old problem. So why do cats keep scratching everything? There are a few reasons your cat keeps scratching:

  • 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.
  • Your cat is expending energy. Your cat doesn’t necessarily know the difference between toy and furniture. It’s all a jungle gym to your cat, a place to play and hunt. And boy does your office chair sure look like a fun tree to climb.
  • Marking their territory. Cats can often scratch something to mark their territory. Their scratches don’t just leave a visible mark; they also leave a scent behind.

How To Stop Your Cats from Scratching Everything

So now you have the answer to “why does my cat keep scratching everything.” Next: how do you stop it? It is possible to train your cat to scratch things she’s supposed to scratch.

  • Cats will often choose things to scratch dependent on placement. 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. Cats are also likely to choose objects right in an entrance to a room, especially if they’re marking their territory. That’s why your cat often scratches the doorjamb, even when the door is open.
  • To begin, try detering your cat from scratching things you don’t want her to scratch by putting gentle sticky tape 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.
  • 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 back of the couch, put your scratching posts near the back of the couch and ensure it’s at a about the same height your cat typically scratches. 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?

If your cat continues to scratch, there might be a deeper health or behavior 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.

How to Stop Your Cat from Waking You Up at Night

Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill

Why Does My Cat Keep Waking Me Up?

We’ve all been there. You’ve finally gotten to sleep and are in the middle of a great dream, when all of a sudden, a loud meow wakes you up. Or a cat sitting on your head. Or scratching at the door. Whichever method your cat uses to wake you up at 3AM, you’re probably pretty fed up. If you’re wondering “why does my cat keep waking me up,” there are a few possibilities. The first is the age-old explanation: cats are nocturnal creatures and in their natural state, they hunt at night. However, domesticated cats typically cater their schedules to their humans’. Usually if cats wake you up at night, it’s because they want or need something.

How to Stop Your Cat from Waking You Up

Whether your cat wants food, attention, or playtime, it’s important to recognize what your cat needs so you can fix it and finally get back to sleep! Here are a few things to try to get your kitty on the same schedule as you or at least let you sleep.

  • Your cat may be hungry – if your kitty is meowing at you in the middle of the night, they could be hungry. Depending on your cat’s feeding schedule, consider an automatic feeder. This is particularly helpful if your cat can pace themselves throughout the day. If your cat is an overeater or eats all their food at once, try giving them a little treat just before you go to bed. This should hold them over until morning.
  • Your cat has too much energy – if your cat is restlessly walking on you or scratching at your door, there’s a good chance they want to play. Playing with your cat an hour before bed can help calm them through the night. Doing this every night will create a habit in your cat and an expectation that after playtime is over, it’s time to sleep.
  • “Give me attention!” – If your cat lays on your head at night, it’s possible they just want attention. Especially for owners that are away from home all day, your cat misses you and needs attention just like a person might. Spend some scheduled and habitual quality cuddle time (or playtime) with your kitty to prevent them from waking you up.
  • If you’re a restless or light sleeper, it may be best to not let your cat sleep with you. Create a space for your cat outside of your room where they can eat, play, and use the litter box. Your cat will recognize that whatever it needs is not in your bedroom.

Still Being Woken Up by Your Cat?

If you’ve tried all this and are still being woken by your cat in the middle of the night, it may be time to consult a vet or a trainer. For more information on how to get your cat to stop waking you up in the middle of the night, or to schedule a vet appointment, call the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill at 856-662-2662. Or you can check out our blog for more helpful cat tips!

Working from Home with Your Cat

Working from Home isn’t Working – My Cat is Distracting Me!

In wake of recent events, many people have found themselves working from home. To some, this is relief and a perk. To cat owners, however, working from home can be a challenge. Although cats are often stereotyped as self-serving and independent pets, we as cat owners know they can be just as needy as any dog or child. Meowing during conference calls, plopping down on your keyboard and work materials, and knocking over your water – they’ll do whatever it takes to make sure you know they are your number one priority. It’s enough to distract anybody from their work, but it doesn’t have to be this way. The cat experts at Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill have a few solutions to help you work from home as efficiently as you do in the office, even with your kitty by your side.

We Can Work This Out – Tips for Working from Home with Your Kitty

When you work from home, your attention isn’t always on your kitty. When your cat begins to cause a ruckus, it just means they want to feel included. Here are some tips to distract, placate, and include your cat during your work-from-home routine:

  • Give your cat her own space. First things first: to ensure your cat doesn’t walk all over your keyboard or lay on your freshly inked notes, it’s important to give your cat her own space. This may be setting her bed next to yours or laying out “decoy” work materials for your cat to lay on. An old keyboard you no longer use or an irrelevant notebook placed next to you act as great spots to distract your cat.
  • If your cat isn’t buying it, create her own space in your vicinity, but out of reach. Sometimes our kitties want to be close to us, but the only option is in our lap. Make sure you are out of petting range to take away the temptation of crawling over your stuff.
  • Your cat needs to play! When you get home from work, you probably typically give your cat attention. When you’re working from home, your cat doesn’t know the difference. Play with your kitty on your lunch break, and better yet, set up playtime options that don’t involve you. Puzzle toys are great for keeping your kitty entertained without your help.

Get to Work!

Having your beloved kitty near you while you work should be a comfort, not a headache. If you have more questions about how to keep your cat occupied while you work from home or would like to schedule an appointment for your kitty, contact the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill at (856)- 662-2662. Happy working!

My Cat Wants to Go Outside – Should I Let It?

The weather is starting to warm up and the sun is shining. Your cat stares out the window all day and when you come home for the evening, tries to slip outside. Sometimes you can’t help wondering if maybe you should just let it out to explore. Unfortunately, it’s best you keep the door closed on your furry friend.

Why Shouldn’t I Let My Cat Go Outside?

The debate on indoor vs outdoor cats has long reigned. Overall, the predominant conclusion about letting your cat visit the great outdoors is a strong negative. Here are a few reasons why:

  • The most obvious reason is your cat might wander off. Our biggest fear about letting our cats outside is that they may go too far and we’ll lose them, or worse, they get hit by a car. Keep your cat close and 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.
  • Don’t forget bugs. Cats can bring back fleas, ticks, and ringworm just like dogs can.
  • 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. 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.

Lower Life Expectancy for Outdoor Cats

Danger from cars, disease, parasites, and predators are just a few factors that contribute to 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. 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 to talk to Dr. McCauley to learn more.