Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill

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.

Keeping Kitty’s Spring Allergies at Bay

cat clinic at cherry hill

It seems like our groundhog friend was wrong about the extended winter this year, and we’re not complaining! As the icy season nears its end and we enjoy warmer, sunnier days, a new issue arises: spring allergies. At the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill, we are well familiar with the tell-tale signs of this yearly feline affliction. Sneezing, runny eyes and nose, frequent scratching of itchy skin…it’s really not too different from our seasonal allergies! There are measures we can take to reduce our cats’ reactions to the increased pollen in the air; here are a few of our suggestions:

Try a bath. We say “try” because it’s common knowledge that cats are not the biggest fans of bath time. If you aren’t met with violent resistance, use a pet shampoo to wash the pollen, bacteria, and other irritants from your kitty’s fur coat and skin. Another option is to use a topical treatment prescribed by your cat veterinarian to stop the itching (and possible infection) in its tracks.

Keep the ears clean.  Those adorable pointy ears are not only excellent at catching the slightest noise, they are the perfect traps for dust and pollen. Help your cat out by using a wad of cotton or gauze to get rid of any debris that may have accumulated in your furry friend’s ear canal. You might even need to flush them with an ear-cleaning solution (just run it by the veterinarian first).

Use eye drops.  Noticing your cat rubbing at her eyes with her paws? Is she looking a little teary-eyed? Rinsing your cat’s eyes with a simple irrigating solution once or twice a day will work wonders in removing allergens and preventing that irritating itch. Just be sure to use a simple cleansing eye solution only–no Visine needed!

Double-check the diet. Could it be a food allergy? There’s only one way to find out. A food elimination diet might be necessary to determine if your cat’s symptoms are due to spring allergies or just the wrong chow.

Visit the vet. When all else fails, leave it to the professionals. That’s what we’re here for!

Call The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill

Don’t wait until your cat is already suffering from spring’s ruthless pollen attack. Follow these tips, and be sure to give us a call at (856) 662-2662 or visit our practice at 35 Haddonfield Road, Cherry Hill, New Jersey. We are eager to answer any questions you have about your cat’s health and how you can keep him in tip-top shape for years to come. Get in touch today!

Adopt Double for Less Trouble!

Cat Clinic At Cherry Hill adopt two cats

Our cats keep us endlessly amused with their adorable, zany behavior. Games of chase with strings, laser pointers, and jingly toys are great fun not only for the cat owner, but for the frisky feline himself. All of that activity gives him good exercise and ample mental stimulation. However, you can’t always be in the house to keep kitty entertained. Whether it’s the daily grind of going to work, trips to the grocery store, or other day-to-day errands, these frequent absences quite often leave pets bored, lonely, and inactive. And while it’s not necessary to get a sitter for the few hours you’re away from home, no one wants to leave their pet all alone for long–that’s why we at the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill strongly urge those looking to add a new four-legged family member to adopt two cats instead of just one!

Safety in Numbers

Although our feline friends tend to have the reputation for being independent, low-maintenance pets, they really aren’t total recluses–they need social interaction just like we do! When left all by themselves in the house, some cats might try to liven things up by getting into things they shouldn’t or becoming destructive. “No one’s around to play? Well, these curtains look like they could be fun…” They also run the risk of consuming things that aren’t meant to be consumed (in which case you should immediately take them to your Cherry Hill cat veterinarian).

When there’s a buddy around, the companionship of an extra kitty will keep your cat happy and occupied. They can even keep each other in better health! Cats that reside with a fellow feline typically live longer, are ill less often, and are kept in good shape from all of the playtime and exercise. There’s also the obvious benefit of getting to watch the hilarity that ensues during their rough and tumble antics!

Adopt two cats Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill

The Cat Veterinarian Cherry Hill Residents Trust

However many kitties you end up adopting, we highly recommend bringing your cats to the veterinarian twice per year to keep the dynamic duo healthy and happy for years to come. The doctors at the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill provide full-service veterinary care exclusively for cats, which means you don’t have to worry about other large or noisy pets spooking your feline friends in the waiting room. You can also rest assured that your beloved companions are in the very best hands–we care about them as much as you do! Book an appointment for your furry family members by contacting the office and speaking with one of our friendly staff; we can’t wait to meet them!

If Cats Made New Year’s Resolutions

Cat Clinic Cherry Hill

It’s a new year, which means it’s time to set some new goals! Many of us have resolved to eat healthier, get more exercise, read more books, spend less money–all of which are worthwhile ambitions. Have you ever wondered what kind of resolutions a cat might make for the new year? Maybe it’s something only a Cherry Hill cat veterinarian would think about, but we had a little fun and came up with a few items that would likely be on your feline friend’s to-do list for 2017…

Catch the red dot. Ok, so I didn’t see any success in this regard for the past three years, but 2017 will be different–that tiny, lightning-fast speck will elude me no longer! This will be the year that I get my paws on the fiend once and for all. They don’t call fast reflexes “cat-like” for nothing!

Keep the counters free of clutter. Last year saw a satisfying number of milk, juice, and water glasses tumbling to their doom from the kitchen counter, but I know I can do better. As long as I’m around when someone sets down a beverage, no cup will be left standing.

Take the wake-up call up a notch. The humans seem to have grown used to my morning routine of meowing for them to get up and serve breakfast, so it’s time to get creative. My days as a tenor are behind me; I will now sing my demands in mezzo-soprano. For added shock value, it might be worthwhile to unsheath the claws a  bit through the bedspread…

Take more naps. Getting 16 hours of sleep per day just wasn’t cutting it last year. The humans may be able to run on a mere eight hours (sometimes less!), but I resolve to take better care of myself! From now on I’ll be getting at least 18 hours of shut-eye per day.

Spend more time on the computer. Whether it’s sitting open on someone’s lap or quietly plugged into the wall, that rectangular heat source will be seeing a lot more of me in 2017. I’ll stay warm and toasty on the keyboard while simultaneously preventing my human from using it–I shouldn’t have to compete for attention!

Do these sound about right? We have another goal to add to the list: Visit the vet! Your kitty might not be in full agreement with that one, but it’s essential to keep her in good health with bi-annual trips to the cat veterinarian Cherry Hill residents trust. We encourage you to make an appointment with us today to ensure another healthy, happy year ahead with your favorite feline!

Bald and Beautiful: Sphynx Cat Facts

Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill

The hairless variety of any animal can be quite an unusual sight, but those who own the unique-looking Sphynx cat can tell you that what they lack in fur they more than make up for in personality! These kitties are among the most affectionate and playful feline breeds out there, proving the mood-boosting benefits of owning a cat. They love attention, which they typically don’t have a problem getting from the vast number of people who are intrigued by their striking appearance. This cat’s beauty is more than just skin-deep! The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill is here to share some hair-raising facts about Sphynxes…

They aren’t completely hairless. Sphynxes may not have the thick fur coat of other cat breeds, but they are not totally bald! If you’ve ever actually handled this breed, you know that it’s a bit similar to holding a wrinkly suede pillow. A soft, barely visible layer of fine hair covers this kitty from head to tail. Additionally, colors and patterns on their skin are often apparent and can give you an idea of what they might look like with fur.

They are the perfect socialites. Friendships with other cats, friendly dogs, and children are not only possible, but very likely. Sphynxes naturally enjoy company and can live peacefully with other animals. They are also more likely to want to be held or snuggled for warmth. (If you’re particularly considerate, get your Sphynx cat a few sweaters to wear when the house gets chilly; he will appreciate the extra layer and look more dapper than ever.)

Skincare is important! This breed may not need brushing, but that doesn’t mean you’re completely off the hook as far as grooming goes. The soft skin of Sphynx cats can be sensitive and needs moisturizing lotion. It’s also a good idea to apply a light coat of sunscreen to avoid burns from harsh sunlight if he likes to catch some rays outside or on the windowsill. These high-maintenance kitties need weekly baths as well to keep their skin from getting too oily. If you find that your kitty is having dermatological issues, be sure to bring him to your trusted Cherry Hill cat veterinarian for prompt treatment!

They hail from Canada. We can just imagine the shock when the first domestic hairless kitten was born in 1966 in Toronto, Canada. A naturally recessive genetic mutation, this hairless feature was intentionally bred for throughout the subsequent years, and the Sphynx breed was established.

Believe it or not, you could be allergic to them. People often think that a cat without fur is the ideal pet for someone with allergies, and we can’t blame them for making that assumption; however, Sphynxes do produce the allergenic protein “Fel d 1” in their saliva that triggers the typical itchy, watery-eyed reactions of allergy sufferers. It’s said that they produce lower levels of this allergen than most felines, but you’re better off with a Russian Blue or Siberian cat if you really want to play it safe.

Owning a Sphynx may require a little extra maintenance, but you are rewarded with ample affection and entertainment from your feline companion. If you have questions or concerns about your cat, don’t hesitate to contact the experts here at our office. As the best cat veterinarian in Cherry Hill, we’re happy to answer any inquiries and set up appointments for your beloved four-legged family members!

Bright-Eyed and Bushy-Tailed

Orange tabby cat

“Just watching my cats can make me happy.” – Paula Cole

Everyone knows that there are a number of daily habits necessary for maintaining good health and hygiene. Some of these habits include bathing, brushing and flossing your teeth, keeping hair well combed, and eating enough fruits and vegetables. The same level of attention should be given to your pets! Rather than waiting until an emergency trip to your cat veterinarian is required, make sure you’re doing your part to keep him healthy and happy by incorporating these simple routines into his day.

Dental care – Your cat can’t hold a toothbrush and scrub those pearly whites all by himself! It’s up to you to make good oral health a priority. Cats have varied reactions to their owners brushing their teeth; some relax and seem to enjoy it while others do their best to make it a nearly impossible task. Your best bet is to start this routine at a young age—a kitten that is accustomed to frequent tooth-brushing will likely continue to allow it as the years go by. If it proves to be too difficult a job, leave it in the capable hands of your cat veterinarian.

Combing the coat – The two things our feline friends do best? Cat naps and hair care. When they’re not snoozing peacefully on their favorite perch, they can often be found tending to their luxurious coats. For the most part, cats don’t really need our help in keeping their fur neat and tidy; however, long-haired breeds have their work cut out for them. It’s a good idea to keep a comb or brush handy so you can give your furry friend a hand in keeping that gorgeous fur tangle-free. You could be sparing him from coughing up some unpleasant hairballs!

Physical exercise – Just as we need daily walks, jogs, or gym time to stay fit, your cat requires daily play time to keep him active and in shape! A lethargic, understimulated kitty can easily pack on the pounds, which leads to negative health effects down the road. Provide him with enough toys to keep him busy on his own, but set time aside to engage him with activities that make him chase string or a laser pointer.

Committing to these daily tasks will do wonders in keeping your kitty “bright-eyed and bushy-tailed.” Don’t forget to schedule yearly appointments with an experienced cat veterinarian who can keep tabs on your pet’s health! If it’s time for your feline friend’s annual checkup, feel free to contact us at any time.

Keep Calm and Go to the Vet

Screen Shot 2016-04-25 at 9.18.21 AM

All cats have unique personalities and habits, but those who own them know that these four-legged companions share some defining characteristics: they maintain strict feeding schedules, they are meticulous in their grooming, daytime napping is taken very seriously, and they typically despise trips to the vet (unless they go to The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill!). The process of corralling your kitty into his carrier, driving to the office while listening to screeching protests, and waiting in the lobby with an increasingly anxious patient is not a pleasant experience. Is there any way you can make it less unbearable for you and your cat? We have a few suggestions!

handle with care

1. Handle with care. An examination at the veterinary clinic involves a good amount of handling as the doctor checks for signs of illness or injury. It’s not a bad idea to get your cat accustomed to this kind of handling by frequently performing some brief checkups of your own at home! That way, your furry friend is not so spooked by the veterinarian’s touch; plus, you are more likely to discover health problems in your pet when you are diligent in assessing his general well-being.Screen Shot 2016-04-25 at 9.21.18 AM

2. Get out of the house more often. Consider this: If you never bring your cat anywhere besides his occasional medical appointments, wouldn’t it make sense that he will begin to associate the cat-carrier and car rides with trips to the vet? Get your pet used to the idea of getting in the carrier and traveling, and make sure it’s a positive experience! Provide comfortable bedding, perhaps a favorite toy, and bring treats. Even if it’s just a short ride through the neighborhood every now and then, it still takes the stress and negative emotions out of the transportation process.

Screen Shot 2016-04-25 at 9.22.59 AM

3. Modify your own behavior. An anxious owner is often accompanied by a similarly stressed out pet. Your cat will respond more favorably to soft, reassuring words and gentle stroking than to a loud voice and jerky, fast movements. Your highly experienced cat veterinarian already knows the proper method of soothing and handling your feline friend, so follow his or her lead by speaking in quiet tones and refraining from sudden movements. A calm atmosphere will do wonders for everyone’s nerves!

As mentioned earlier, all cats are unique and have distinct personalities; not all of them will react in the same manner when it’s time for a trip to the veterinarian. Try these tips and let us know if you notice any positive behavioral changes. Once you visit our practice, you are sure to find that the knowledgeable and caring staff at The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill have years of experience in making anxious felines feel completely at ease! Our patients quickly learn that a checkup with Dr. McCauley or Dr. Knighton is nothing to fear.