Cat Health Archives - Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill

Cat Vaccinations in Cherry Hill NJ: Essential Protection for Your Feline Companion

12.18.25

Vaccinations play a critical role in keeping cats healthy throughout every stage of life. Whether you have a playful kitten or a senior cat, staying up to date on recommended vaccines helps prevent serious and potentially life-threatening diseases. If you’re searching for cat vaccinations in Cherry Hill NJ, understanding what vaccines your cat needs (and why they need them) can help you make confident, informed decisions about their care.

Why Cat Vaccinations Matter

Cats can be exposed to infectious diseases even if they live indoors. Viruses and bacteria can be carried into the home on shoes, clothing, or other pets. Vaccinations help strengthen your cat’s immune system so they can fight off illness before it becomes severe.

Key benefits of vaccinating your cat include:

Protection against highly contagious and deadly diseases
Reduced risk of disease transmission to other pets
Support for long-term health and longevity
Compliance with boarding, grooming, and travel requirements

Core and Lifestyle-Based Vaccines

Veterinarians typically divide feline vaccines into two categories: core vaccines and non-core (lifestyle-based) vaccines.

Core vaccines are recommended for nearly all cats and often include:

Feline panleukopenia (distemper)
Feline herpesvirus
Feline calicivirus
Rabies (required by law in many areas)

Non-core vaccines are recommended based on your cat’s lifestyle, environment, and risk factors. These may include protection against feline leukemia virus (FeLV) or other regionally relevant diseases. Your veterinarian will help determine which vaccines are appropriate for your cat.

Vaccination Schedules for Cats

Kittens typically begin vaccinations at around 6–8 weeks of age, followed by booster shots every few weeks until they are about 16 weeks old. Adult cats require regular booster vaccinations to maintain immunity, with schedules tailored to age, health status, and lifestyle.

Senior cats still benefit from vaccinations, though their needs may change over time. Regular wellness exams allow your veterinarian to adjust vaccine plans safely and appropriately.

Are Vaccinations Safe for Cats?

Modern feline vaccines are thoroughly tested for safety and effectiveness. Mild side effects, such as temporary soreness or low energy, may occur but are generally short-lived. Serious reactions are rare, especially when vaccines are administered by experienced veterinary professionals who understand feline-specific needs.

Expert Cat Vaccinations in Cherry Hill NJ

At The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill, we specialize exclusively in feline care. Our team understands that cats are unique, and so are their medical needs. We provide customized vaccination plans based on your cat’s age, lifestyle, and health history, ensuring they receive the protection they need without unnecessary stress.

If you’re looking for trusted cat vaccinations in Cherry Hill NJ, our compassionate, feline-focused team is here to help. Contact The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill today at (856) 662-2662 to schedule an appointment and give your cat the lifelong protection they deserve.

Senior Cat Wellness Exams: Why They’re Essential for Your Feline Friend

09.19.25

As cats age, their needs change, and so should their veterinary care. Just like people, senior cats are more prone to certain health conditions, making regular check-ups even more important. Senior cat wellness exams give veterinarians the opportunity to detect issues early, provide preventive care, and keep your beloved companion healthy and comfortable in their golden years.

When Is a Cat Considered a Senior?

Most cats are considered seniors around the age of 7–10 years old, though some breeds may age differently. By this stage, changes in metabolism, mobility, and organ function become more common, even if they aren’t immediately visible to owners.

What Happens During a Senior Cat Wellness Exam?

A senior cat exam is more comprehensive than a standard check-up. Your veterinarian will evaluate:

Physical Examination: Checking eyes, ears, teeth, heart, lungs, skin, and joints for early signs of disease.
Weight & Nutrition Assessment: Identifying unintentional weight loss or obesity, both of which can signal underlying issues.
Blood Work & Urinalysis: Screening for diabetes, kidney disease, liver problems, and thyroid conditions.
Dental Health Evaluation: Dental disease is extremely common in older cats and can affect overall health.
Mobility & Arthritis Screening: Identifying stiffness or pain that may be managed with treatment.
Vaccination & Parasite Control: Ensuring your cat stays protected against preventable diseases.

Why Senior Cat Wellness Exams Are So Important

While younger cats often do well with annual check-ups, senior cats benefit from twice-yearly wellness exams. Because health issues can progress quickly in older pets, more frequent monitoring helps ensure timely treatment and care for a variety of reasons:

Early Disease Detection: Many conditions such as kidney disease, diabetes, or hyperthyroidism can develop silently. Exams catch them before they worsen.
Improved Quality of Life: Addressing pain, mobility issues, or dental problems helps senior cats stay active and comfortable.
Tailored Nutrition Plans: Adjusting diet for weight management, organ health, and overall vitality.
Longer Lifespan: Preventive care and early intervention often add healthy, happy years to your cat’s life.
Peace of Mind for Owners: Knowing your cat is being monitored closely reduces stress and uncertainty.

Trust the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill for Senior Feline Care

At The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill, we understand the unique needs of aging cats. Our team specializes in feline-only medicine, which means we tailor every senior cat wellness exam to address age-related concerns. From bloodwork and dental care to arthritis management and nutrition counseling, we provide compassionate, expert care to keep your cat thriving.

If your feline friend is entering their golden years, don’t wait! Schedule a senior cat wellness exam today. Visit our office or call us to book an appointment and ensure your cat enjoys a healthy, happy life well into their senior years.

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

08.13.25

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

Understanding Feline Diabetes

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

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

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

Preparing for Insulin Administration

Before giving an injection, gather the following supplies:

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

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

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

Tips for Consistent Insulin Care

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

Why Professional Support Matters

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

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!

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.

Finding the Right Veterinarian for Your Cat

06.26.24

Finding a doctor for ourselves can feel difficult; after all, we want the top-level care we deserve! When it comes to your best furry friend, you should treat the search process just the same. So, how can you tell when you’ve found a reputable place to entrust with your cat’s care? At The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill, we can tell you a few ways to recognize when you’ve found the right veterinarian for your cat.

Signs You’ve Found the Right Veterinarian For Your Cat

A knowledgeable doctor who provides excellent treatment: The main thing you want in a cat veterinarian is skill and genuine care for your animal. Dr. John McCauley has been a feline specialist for over two decades and remains just as passionate about keeping kitties healthy and happy as he was at the start.
Friendly and responsive staff: The people at the front desk are the face of any office. If your interactions with staff are consistently unpleasant, there’s a good chance you won’t want to return — regardless of how great everything else is! You’ll find that everyone employed at The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill is friendly, compassionate, and genuine. We do not respond with rudeness or impatience when our clients have questions, and we are willing to go the extra mile to ensure that your experience here is as positive and low-stress as possible.
Rave reviews: Whether you’re on the lookout for a spectacular restaurant, a reputable hair salon, or a trustworthy veterinarian, it’s very likely that you are scanning through people’s reviews of the place before you decide to venture over. This is a good practice! When a location is receiving 4 or 5 stars across the board, you’ll surely feel a lot better about giving them your business. You can check out our many positive testimonials here!

Your #1 Cherry Hill Cat Veterinarian

You don’t have to wonder if you’re bringing your cat to a quality veterinary office when you come to The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill; it’s evident from the moment you walk through our doors that we truly care about each and every furry patient. Our biggest concern is making sure your feline family member stays healthy and strong!

If you’re seeking the most exceptional local veterinarian for your cat, the highly experienced professionals at our office can be trusted to provide the very best care, every time. Contact us today by calling (856) 662-2662, or come pay us a visit; we are located at 35 Haddonfield Road in Cherry Hill, New Jersey. We look forward to meeting you!

Do Cats Need Yearly Vet Visits?

04.26.24

If you’re a first-time cat owner or thinking about adopting, you may be wondering, ‘do cats need yearly vet visits?’ Many new cat-owners are under the impression that cats don’t need as much attention as dogs, including from the vet. However, just like all pets, and humans for that matter, seeing the doctor is essential sometimes, even when not visibly sick. Vets need to see your cat for regular checkups to check your kitty’s heart health, weight, dental health, make sure they have all their vaccines, and a variety of other services! All that being said, do cats need yearly vet visits? The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill has all the answers you need!

Every Cat’s Medical Needs Are Different

Truthfully, there’s not a playbook as to how often you should take your cat to the vet, but age and situation have a lot to do with it:

Newborn to young kitty – For about the first two years of your cat’s life, your cat is growing and changing rapidly. This age is also when your cat should receive most of their preliminary vaccines and shots. Discuss with your vet at your first vet appointment how to make a solid health plan for your kitty. They might recommend several times a year for the first couple years, depending on a variety of factors.
Adult cat – Your cat will reach adulthood usually after a year, but might keep growing for some time after that! While your cat is still growing and changing, twice a year is usually the standard. Once your cat has stopped growing so much, once a year is usually sufficient to keep up with checkups and shots.
Elderly cats – Once your cat gets up in age, their health plan will need to change again. Cats ages 7-10 will need to start seeing the vet two to three times per year again to ensure they’re staying healthy. If they are older than ten, your vet might even recommend more regular visits.
Situational health issues – If your cat throws up pretty often or your vet has diagnosed health issues at a prior visit, you may want to consult with your vet on if they might recommend a more frequent plan. Additionally, if you notice changes in your cat’s health or eating, sleeping, and social habits, schedule an appointment with your vet ASAP.

Call The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill Today

We hope this has answered your questions regarding do cats need yearly vet visits! It’s important to remember all cats are different and require different health needs. You can schedule a vet appointment with The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill to make a health plan for your kitty. For more information, or to schedule your appointment, call us at 856-662-2662. We’re here for you!

What Plants are Toxic to Cats?

02.15.24

Spring is just on the horizon, which means you’re shifting out of winter mode and readying to embrace what the new season will bring! For many people this means hitting the nursery and getting some plants! If you’re a cat owner and want to add some greenery to your home, you may be wondering what plants are toxic to cats. The good news is there are a lot of household plants that aren’t harmful to kitties at all! However, here are a few of the most common household plants that will make your cat sick:

Lilies
Aloe
Daffodils
Hyacinths
Azalea
Cycas like Sago Palm

You Can Have Both! Tips on How to Properly Keep Plants and Cats

Although there are a variety of plants that are toxic to cats and dogs alike, if you’ve got a green thumb, don’t fret; there are many ways to keep plants in a household with your pets, even curious cats. Here are a few tips from the cat experts at the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill:

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, as we’ve all experienced how cats like to jump up high and explore.
Slowly introduce your cats to your plants and see how they react. You can let them sniff them, and if they’re largely uninterested, plant to your heart’s content. Continue to monitor and train your cats to avoid your greenery as you introduce them to your plants.
Planting in larger or heavier pots is typically the best planting option. That way a curious cat won’t tip them over.
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.
Similarly, you can 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.
Remember that cats have FOMO! They just want to do what you’re doing, too. Get your cat their own plants to play with – cat grass is like catnip and your cat will love it!
Keep up with plant maintenance – if leaves become long, your cat might mistake them for a toy.

What Plants are Toxic to Cats: Learn More with the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill

It’s best to always verify online what plants are toxic to cats. 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. For more information on what plants are toxic or nontoxic to cats, contact your friends at the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill! 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!

Stop Cats from Getting Cold This Winter

11.30.23

Holiday season is just about here and the weather is starting to turn brisk and chilly. If you’re a cat parent, you may be wondering how to keep your cat warm when the weather gets cold and wet. Anyone who has cats knows that a warm kitty is a happy kitty, so how do you stop cats from getting cold when their favorite sunspots have started to fade with the season? Don’t worry! The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill has some easy suggestions to make sure your kitty stays nice and toasty this holiday season.

Prevent Your Cats from Getting Cold

Just because the weather is cold, doesn’t mean your cat has to be! Check out these tips and tricks to keep your cat warm and happy:

First things first, check your cat’s usual favorite spots for cool air or breezes. For instance, if your cat likes windowsills, it’s good to make sure the seal is nice and tight, so drafts don’t slip in.
You may consider moving their beds off the floors. Heat rises, so the higher your cat’s bed, the warmer they are. You might put them near heating vents or sunny spots.
Cats love a good rug! If you have tile or hardwood floors, try putting down a small carpet for them. Your kitty’s feet get cold on the floor just like you, but they’re probably not as fond of slippers or socks as you are, so it’s best to give them a warm place to sit or stand.
Kitties love heating pads! Pet friendly heating pads exist, so check your local pet store. Your kitty will love cuddling up with a warm heating pad.
Last but not least, be wary of candles, fires, and open flame. While these are great for keeping humans warm, kitties are curious creatures who might get just a bit too close. You don’t want sparks to fly on your cat, or for their long fur to accidentally brush against a flame. Your cat’s safety is top priority.

Need More Cat Advice? Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill Can Help!

If you’ve still got questions on how to stop cats from getting cold during the winter months, give the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill a call at 856-662-2662 or check out our blog! We’re experts on cats and can help you determine what’s safe and what isn’t. And remember the best advice of all – cuddling with your cat is always a great way to keep you both warm!

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!