Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill

Keep Your Cat Warm this Holiday Season

keep your cat warm

A Warm Kitty is a Happy Kitty

Halloween has come and gone, which means holiday season is upon us and it’s starting to get chilly. If you’ve got a feline friend at home, you may be wondering how to keep your cat warm when the weather gets cold. Anyone who has cats knows that a warm kitty is a happy kitty, so what do you do when your cat’s favorite sunny spots start to disappear this time of year? Not to worry! The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill has some easy suggestions to make sure your kitty stays nice and toasty this holiday season.

Tips on How to Keep Your Cat Warm

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

  1. Check your cat’s usual haunts for drafts and breezes. If your cat likes windowsills, it’s good to make sure the seal is nice and tight, so drafts don’t slip in.
  2. Rugs and shag carpets aren’t just for decoration! If you have tiled or hardwood floors, try putting down some rugs. Your kitty’s feet get cold on the floor just like you, so unless your cat has access to some fuzzy slippers, they’ve probably got cold toe beans.
  3. Consider moving their beds off the floors. Heat rises, so the higher your cat’s bed, the warmer they are.
  4. Heating pads – they’re not just for humans! Pet friendly heating pads exist, so check your local pet store. Your kitty will love cuddling up with a warm heating pad.
  5. Be wary of candles, fires, and open flame. While these are great for keeping us warm, kitties are curious creatures who may 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.

Got Questions? Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill Has Answers

If you’ve still got questions on how to keep your cat warm during the cold weather, give the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill a call at 856-662-2662. We’re experts on cats and can help you determine what’s safe and what isn’t. And remember – cuddling with your cat is always a great way to keep warm!

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 Throwing Up?

My Cat Keeps Throwing Up – Is This Normal?

If you’re a cat owner, you know all too well that cat vomit can be an unfortunately common part of loving your furry baby. You know the signs – the groans, the choking noises, and then… the vomit. You’re running off for the carpet spray and your cat is walking away, content like nothing even happened. However, what does it mean when your cat keeps throwing up? Is it normal? How much is too much and why does it keep happening? There are many reasons your cat keeps throwing up and, thankfully, most of them aren’t serious.

Reasons Your Cat Keeps Throwing Up

Most common house cats throw up one to three times per month. Here are a few reasons why your cat might keep throwing up:

  • Hairballs. The most common reason your cat keeps throwing up is from grooming. Cats are meticulous groomers. Unfortunately, their stomachs aren’t fond of digesting all that cat hair. If your cat’s vomit is clumpy and hairy, don’t fret. Hairballs may be gross, but they aren’t reason for concern.
  • Eating too quickly. Like humans, if cats eat too much too quickly, they may become sick. Especially in multi-cat homes where they feel territorial over their food, cats often will eat too quickly. If your cat throws up after eating, but appears fine the next minute, this is probably the reason. Try giving your cat smaller portions of food spread throughout the day or separating your cats’ food bowls if you have multiples cats.
  • Your cat ate something cats should not be eating. Cats are curious creatures and will try to eat things they shouldn’t. Toilet paper, human food, toys, grass… the list is endless. If your cat is a curious eater, it’s a good idea to cat-proof inedibles as much as possible.
  • Allergies. If your cat appears to be throwing up after eating, another possibility is they’re allergic to something in their food. This is not at all uncommon. They may also be having trouble adjusting to the food, if it’s new. When trying out a new food, ease them into it by weaning them off the old and onto the new by mixing the two foods together at first.

When Is It Time to See the Vet?

The above reasons are all common occurrences in household cats. If your cat throws up and appears unbothered shortly after, monitor the situation, but don’t be alarmed. If it happens multiple times per week, a call to the vet might be in order. However, if your cat vomits multiple times over multiple days, becomes distant and isn’t eating, or you notice blood in your cat’s vomit, call the vet immediately. These are signs of more serious sickness or that your cat might have eaten something dangerous or poisonous. If you’re not sure and are worried about why your cat keeps throwing up, call The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill at 856-662-2662. We are always happy to help and want your cat to be healthy. In the meantime, give your kitty lots of love and invest in some good carpet cleaner!

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.

Our Top Tips to Keep Your Cat Cool this Summer

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.


keep cat cool

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.

How to Have a Healthy Cat


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

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!

 

Fall Decor Concerns for Cats

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!

How to Extend the Life of Your Cat

Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill cat long life

If only there were a magic elixir that would allow our beloved feline companions to live forever! According to the ASPCA, the average lifespan of an indoor cat is between 13 and 17 years, but many live to reach their early 20s. The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill is all about extending and enhancing the lives of our feline friends! We recommend following these tips to help your cat lead a longer, healthier life.

Exercise them
It’s the same deal for cats as it is for humans–regular exercise is essential for good health! Getting the heart pounding and blood pumping by chasing a laser pointer, jumping for a toy, climbing a cat tree…it’s all beneficial for increased cardiovascular fitness and mental stimulation. After all, a fit cat is a happy cat.

Encourage water consumption
Cats tend to go long periods of time without feeling the need to hydrate. Be sneaky: try adding some water to dry food so your cat gets some extra H2O without even knowing it, or include canned food to his diet for some extra water content.

Spay or neuter your cat
According to a 2013 survey, spaying (for females) or neutering (for males) actually correlates to pets living longer, healthier lives. Worried about the cost? Consider this: it’s more expensive to have a full litter of kittens to care for, and an unneutered male cat is far more likely to venture off and get into scrapes with local strays–the cost of treatment for injuries sustained from cat-fights isn’t a sunny prospect either!

Make regular vet visits
This includes oral care, proper grooming (especially for long-hair cats), and keeping pets up-to-date on vaccinations. Just like we humans need yearly physicals, our cats need yearly checkups! In fact, we recommend bringing your cat to the vet twice per year to keep her in optimum health. It’s a surefire way of making sure your furry friend stays bright-eyed and bushy-tailed!

The Cherry Hill Cat Veterinarian That Cares

Dr. John McCauley, the highly knowledgeable and experienced veterinarian at the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill, provides full-service veterinary care exclusively for cats. What does that mean for you and your kitty? Neither of you have to feel anxious about other large or noisy animals making a scene in the waiting room. You can also trust that your beloved feline is in good hands–cats are our passion! Make an appointment today by contacting the office and speaking with one of our friendly staff; we are excited to help give your cat the gift of good health and a long, satisfying life with his loving owner!

Help Your Cats Keep Their Cool in Summer

keep cat cool in summer

It’s (hopefully) safe to say that at long last, warm weather is here to stay. ’Tis the season for barbecues, dips in the pool, and long naps in the sun. Our feline friends are certainly fans of that last one! Anyone who owns a cat knows that sunrays streaming through a window is like a kitty magnet—sooner or later you’ll find a furry form curled up in that warm patch of light. As much as we love to see our pets soaking up the therapeutic summer sun, we need to keep a close eye on them to make sure they don’t overheat! Here are a few ways we at The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill suggest you prevent the harmful effects of too much fun in the sun.

  1. When you’re trying to keep your cat warm in the winter, you naturally ensure their bedding is appropriate for the colder months. In summer, however, it’s time to exchange those fleece-line, blanket-swathed beds for a cooler spot to lounge! This can be as simple as an empty cardboard box or a plastic bin—cats are choosy with many things, but they tend to sit anywhere they fit!
  2. Tending to that thick fur coat is another way to prevent your cat from becoming uncomfortably hot in the summer weather, especially if you own a long-haired breed such as a Maine Coon or Persian. (Hairless varieties like the Sphynx cat do not have this problem!) A good brushing or even a trim may be in order. If you’d like help with this task, we encourage you to bring your furry friend to The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill for professional grooming!
  3. Keep your home well-ventilated by opening up windows and doors—make sure the screens are in place! If you’re away from the house for a while, have the air conditioning set up to switch on at various times of the day so your pets aren’t left in sauna-like conditions. Another way to keep the house cool without wasting energy is to draw the curtains during the heat of the day. Your kitty can enjoy resting in sunny spots during cooler times, such as morning and late afternoon!
  4. Dehydration is one of the biggest dangers of a hot day. Have cool water available at all times in multiple locations throughout the house. Keep tabs on the bowls and refill them when you see the water running low or looking murky; as we well know, some cats are very picky with what they’ll eat and drink! Fresh, clean water will be much more appealing to your kitty.

The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill is Here to Help Beat the Heat

We want your favorite felines to enjoy the summer sun, so follow the above tips to keep potential health issues at bay! If you notice that your cat is exhibiting signs of overheating such as panting, lethargy, confusion, or constant hiding in the coolest parts of the house, don’t hesitate to contact us at (865) 662-2662 or visit our office. We are located at 35 Haddonfield Road, Cherry Hill, New Jersey.