Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill

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!

How to Keep Cats Cool During the Summer

how to keep cats cool during summer

Summer is Almost Here – Keep Your Cat Cool!

If you have kitties, then you know cats love to be warm. Their favorite activity is taking a lazy cat nap in a sunny spot. However, like most household pets, overheating is a huge problem for cats! Hot weather is dangerous for a cat just like it would be for a dog or even a human. That’s why the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill has compiled some important tips on how to keep cats cool during the summer!

Keep Your Kitty Cool During the Summer

If you have air conditioning, keeping your cat cool is no sweat! But for those without, here are some hot tips on how to keep cats cool during the summer:

  • Cooling mats – most pet stores have a wide variety of options when it comes to cooling mats! However, if you’re on a budget, ice packs or even frozen packs of vegetables can do in a pinch! Just make sure to wrap them in a towel before placing in your cat’s bed or favorite cuddling spot.
  • 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.
  • Ice treats – Recipes for kitty-friendly ice treats like this one are a healthy and cool snack your cat will love!
  • Make sure your cat has fresh water to stay hydrated
  • Provide shade for your cat if they go outside and watch for overheating and dry-skin, which can indicate sunburn

The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill and Your Cool Cat

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 exclusive to cats.

Cat First Aid Can Save Your Cat

cat first aid

National Pet First Aid Awareness Month

April is National Pet First Aid Awareness Month! As pet owners, we hope no harm ever comes to our feline friends, but unfortunately, accidents and injuries happen. That’s why it’s best to be prepared beforehand! This National Pet First Aid Awareness Month, the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill has put together some helpful information on cat first aid so you know just what to do in a kitty-crisis.

Every Situation is Different – Be Prepared

From allergic reactions to broken bones, every situation where your cat needs first aid is different, but one thing they have in common is they’re all scary! So here are a few tips to help you keep a level-head so you know what to do in an emergency.

  • First, make sure you are prepared for an emergency. Program your vet’s number in your phone ahead of time so you’re not scrambling to find the number. Educate yourself on your vet’s emergency policies and hours. The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill can be reached at 856-662-2662.
  • Assess the injury – is there blood? A bite? A broken bone? Approach your cat gently and with caution. A scared and hurt kitty may lash out.
  • Never give your kitty human medication! Most human medication is toxic to cats. When in doubt, wait for vet-prescribed medication.
  • If your cat is bleeding, apply pressure to the wound like you would with human injuries. Elevating the injury is also helpful until you can seek help from the vet.
  • If your cat is unconscious, check their breathing. “Mouth-to-mouth” may be performed on cats if they are unconscious. Information on pet-CPR from the Red Cross can be found here.
  • If your pet has ingested toxic substances, keep labels, ingredients, and other information on-hand so your vet knows exactly what your kitty ate.
  • Transport your kitty immediately and quickly to the vet or 24-hour emergency pet care facility.

Timely Cat First Aid Can Make the Difference

If your cat has been injured or hurt, knowing basic cat first aid can make the difference in your kitty’s recovery. This National Pet Awareness Month, it’s important to educate yourself on what to do in a kitty emergency. For more information on cat first aid, you can contact The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill at 856-662-2662.

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!

Can I Brush My Cat’s Teeth?

brush your cats teeth

Cats and Dental Hygiene

If you have a kitty, you know cat breath can be pretty stinky. You’re probably wondering “can I brush my cat’s teeth?” The answer is yes! Just like humans, cats need proper dental hygiene to stay happy and healthy. 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. Fortunately, brushing your cat’s teeth is a great way to prevent gum disease and other health issues.

How to Brush Your Cat’s Teeth

Brushing your cat’s teeth may not be the easiest thing in the world, 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:

  1. Make sure your cat is comfortable. Sit them in your lap or in one of their favorite places.
  2. You will need: a special toothbrush and toothpaste. Toothbrushes and cat-friendly toothpaste can both be found at most pet stores. It’s important that you never use human toothpaste or similar products like baking soda or mouthwash.
  3. Especially the first time you brush their teeth, ease your cat into it by letting them sample the toothpaste. Put a little in their mouth so they can adjust to the taste. They may even lick it off your finger!
  4. 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.
  5. Just like with human tooth-brushing, 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.
  6. Finish up and give your cat a treat for a job well-done! We recommend treats that promote good dental hygiene. They’re tasty and healthy.

The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill and Your Kitty’s Teeth

Brushing your cat’s teeth is an important part of having a kitty. We recommend brushing every day or several times per week if possible. In addition to brushing your cat’s teeth, it’s important to make sure your cat has an annual professional tooth-cleaning and oral exam performed by a 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 kitty, 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!

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.