Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill

Spring for a Vet Visit This Season!

Cherry Hill Cat Veterinarian Spring

Many house cats have been cooped up indoors for the entirety of winter. (Except for a select few brave snow-loving cats who have been let out to experience the fluffy white drifts!) As spring approaches, you may be considering letting your kitty outside to enjoy the fresh air and get some much-needed exercise. With the incoming warm weather comes a few potential safety concerns for your furry friend that you’ll want to keep in mind. Follow these spring cat health tips for a smooth transition to the new season!

Don’t Leave Your Cat in the Cold!

The weather this time of year can sometimes be a bit deceptive. One day we’re enjoying temperatures in the high seventies, the next day we need to bundle up and brave a blustery morning of flurries. These surprise snowfalls might be a minor inconvenience for you but they are much more of a serious threat to your feline’s well-being if you’ve been letting him roam freely outdoors. Be aware of the weather forecasts before you open the door to let your friend survey his small neighborhood kingdom–especially if you own a hairless breed of cat! Some kitties are far less tolerant of the cold than others.

Sunny with a Chance of…Dehydration?

Conversely, there will be beautiful days where the sun is shining full force and it will seem like summer just couldn’t wait its turn. Both you and your cat will likely be more than eager to leave the confines of the house and enjoy the reprieve from the chill, but don’t forget to leave some food and water out for your little explorer! The heat has a way of drying you out when you’re getting some exercise in the form of running or walking. The same danger applies to your pet! Prevent dehydration by making fresh water available both indoors and outdoors, and remember to change it daily to ward off the presence of bacteria, algae, or parasites.  

Yes, Cats Can Have Allergies!

Are you familiar with the itchy eyes, runny nose, and sneezing that often accompanies the bright, pollen-packed blooms of spring? There’s a chance that your cat is experiencing the same thing, especially if you’re letting her outside! If you notice your four-legged companion exhibiting such spring allergy symptoms, don’t hesitate to bring her to the cat veterinarian Cherry Hill residents recommend. We are more than capable of treating the dermatological and respiratory issues that plague pets this time of year.  

Schedule a Spring Appointment With a Cherry Hill Cat Veterinarian

It’s no secret that bringing your cat to the veterinarian can be a monumental task; however, for the long-term health and happiness of your beloved pet, we highly recommend that you don’t put it off! We specialize in gentle, effective treatment of our feline patients because we truly care about them as much as you do. This spring, get a head start on keeping your kitty healthy by contacting the office and making an appointment as soon as possible. We look forward to seeing you and your furry family member!

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!

Modern Cat Celebrities

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When asked to think of famous cats, which ones do you recall first? Perhaps fictional characters such as the Cat in the Hat or Puss in Boots come to mind. We’ve compiled a list of real modern day cat celebrities that have effortlessly amassed huge followings of loving fans. Are you familiar with any of these famous felines?

1. Olivia Benson and Meredith Grey Swift

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Photo Credit: Instagrammer @taylorswift

Taylor Swift’s cats, named after Detective Olivia Benson from Law & Order and Meredith Grey from Grey’s Anatomy, might just be responsible for the singer’s staggering number of Instagram followers. Their antics and adorable expressions have caused them to quickly gain fans worldwide. These two beautiful kitties are Scottish Folds, which explains their small, downward tilted ears. Taylor Swift describes her fur babies as fun, social cats that make for good travel companions.

2. Tardar Sauce, AKA: “Grumpy Cat”

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Photo Credit: Instagrammer @realgrumpycat

Grumpy Cat became an internet sensation in 2012 when a photograph of her unimpressed, disgruntled face was posted on the popular website Reddit. Since then, she has made appearances on the Today Show, Good Morning America, and American Idol, as well as in publications such as the Wall Street Journal and New York Magazine. Grumpy Cat’s photo is often accompanied by hilarious negative captions that appeal to the pessimist in all of us. Her owner states that the grumpy expression is a result of feline dwarfism and an underbite, and that little Tardar Sauce isn’t actually grumpy at all! She is described as a “good-tempered cat,” despite the permanent scowl.

3. Lil Bub

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Photo Credit: Instagrammer @iamlilbub

Similar to Grumpy Cat, Lil Bub is an internet star whose adorably peculiar appearance rocketed her to fame. She has several genetic mutations which include extra toes and a short lower jaw that causes her tongue to hang out; she is also toothless! Lil Bub’s owner, Mike Bridavsky, frequently does meet-and-greets with his furry friend at various animal shelters, which receive donations and a portion of the merchandise sales from each event. This four-legged celebrity has been featured on the Today Show, The View, and Good Morning America. She even has her own book, titled, “Lil Bub’s Lil Book: The Extraordinary Life of the Most Amazing Cat on the Planet.”

4. Stubbs: Mayor of Talkeetna, Alaska

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Photo Credit: Instagrammer @stubbsmayorcat

Stubbs the cat was voted the mayor of Talkeetna, Alaska when he was just a kitten; apparently the human candidates for the position just didn’t measure up! Stubbs is now nearly 20 years old and resides in the upper room of a general store. He has done a good job of boosting tourism to the area (not many places can boast that they have a cat in office!) and keeping the streets free of vermin. What does a cat mayor do, you might ask? Stubbs spends his days wandering freely into the restaurants and shops of the town, occasionally enjoying a sip of water from a wineglass spiked with catnip. It sounds like the perfect life for a hardworking kitty politician!

Your furry family member might not be an internet sensation or hold political office, but we think that all cats deserve star treatment! Get in touch with a trusted cat veterinarian here at our office to schedule an appointment. We look forward to seeing you at The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill!

20 Fun Feline Facts

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As we all know, cats are beautiful, captivating creatures that are a joy to own and observe. To celebrate their wonderful presence in our lives, we’ve compiled a list of 20 amazing facts about our feline companions! Did you know that…

1. Unlike humans, who have nine­-month pregnancies, a cat’s gestation period is only nine weeks long.

2. Hold the dessert—cats are incapable of tasting sweetness in anything they eat.

3. Are you and your cat on the same brainwave? Get this: cats’ brains are genetically more similar to a human’s brain than a dog’s brain.

4. A cat’s field of vision does not include anything directly below the nose.

5. The “cat flap” door was invented by Sir Isaac Newton, the English mathematician who discovered gravity. We think we would have liked Mr. Newton. feline-facts

6. Cats typically sleep up to 16 hours per day. That’s a lot of shut-­eye!

7. Able to leap tall countertops in a single bound…A cat can jump up to five times its own height!

8. A cat’s nose is as unique as a human fingerprint. So would the police would “noseprint” a cat that got arrested?

9. The Maine Coon is the official state cat of—you guessed it—Maine.

10. Killing a cat in ancient Egypt was punishable by death.

11. Cats don’t just close their eyes when they’re tired; it could also mean they are content.

12. Ragdoll cats are named that for a reason; when lifted up, their muscles relax and they go limp.

13. A cat has 24 more bones than a human.feline-facts

14. Talk about finicky eaters! Cats prefer their food to be at room temperature. Your kitty just might turn up his nose if the meal is too hot or too cold.

15. A cat spends roughly a third of its time awake grooming itself. Is this vanity, good hygiene, or a combination of both?

16. Though here in the U.S. they have the reputation of being bad luck, black cats are seen as good fortune in Australia and the United Kingdom.

17. Step lightly! Cats have 5 toes on their front paws and 4 toes on their hind paws.

18. An indoor cat can live 16 years or longer, while an outdoor cat’s lifespan is only 3­5 years on average.

19. The scientific name for a hairball is “bezoar,” though many of us just refer to it as “blech!”

20. Similar to human beings hugging or shaking hands, cats often greet each other by rubbing noses.

There you have it—twenty reasons for us to marvel at our unique and fascinating four­-legged friends. If you’d like to know more about your cat’s behavior or if you’re having concerns about his or her health, you can always contact your cat veterinarian here at The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill. We’d be happy to help resolve the issue and provide the very best care for your furry family member!

Benefits of Owning a Cat

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All loving cat-owners know that having a cat around is rewarding in itself—many of us can’t imagine life without our fur babies! As Sigmund Freud once said, “Time spent with cats is never wasted.” There are a few good reasons for having a feline in the house besides a warmed lap. Here are five ways in which cats enrich the lives of their humans:

1. They’re good for your heart! Pets in general are good for your heart, but especially cats. Cat owners find that their stress levels drop more so than even dog owners (maybe because felines don’t require as much effort as canines), and experience less anxiety in their lives. Also, we can all confirm that their antics frequently serve as a comic relief. How about the purring? Petting a cat is therapeutic and calming. Interestingly, studies have shown that those who own cats are less likely to die of a heart attack or stroke than those who do not have cats.

2. They provide a sense of companionship. Who says dogs are more affectionate than cats? Contrary to popular belief, many cats love to interact with their loving owners and often initiate contact. Go ahead and stroke that soft coat and hold him in your lap—both you and your cat will benefit from the time together!

3. A coping mechanism. Through any type of struggle or loss, cats help their owners get through it. One of the best parts about having a pet is the ability to speak without fear of judgment or negative response. Work through complex thoughts and feelings, have a good cry, and rest easy knowing that your feline companion is there to offer purrs and cuddles of comfort.

4. They teach responsibility and empathy. For those who have children, owning a cat shows them how to care for something besides themselves and to consider how their actions affect other individuals. A consistent feeding and litter box-cleaning schedule teaches the importance of self-discipline, sticking with a routine, and putting others’ needs before their own. A lesson in responsibility has never been so rewarding!

5. They help you get social. Owning a cat provides ample opportunity for starting conversation with new acquaintances, which lends itself to great sociability. Good news for single guys: a study has shown that women are more attracted to men who own or have owned cats, as it suggests that they are more sensitive and intelligent. Or maybe they just know that cat people are the best kind of people.

We’re pretty sure you didn’t need a list of reasons to confirm why owning a cat enhances the quality of your life, but we hope you learned something new! As your trusted cat veterinarian, we’re here to ensure that your precious pet has a long, healthy life ahead of her. Be sure to contact us with any questions or appointment requests!

Purr-fect Holiday Tips

Purr-fect Holiday Tips

If you’ve already decked the halls with boughs of holly, you may want to take them down.

During the holiday season, half of the excitement is adorning the inside and outside of the house with colorful, festive decorations: tinsel is generously swathed around mantels, delicate ceramic figurines grace coffee tables, fragile glass ornaments hang precariously from the tree—the end result is a beautiful, cozy home…and a veritable wonderland for your cat. One of the defining characteristics of a cat is her curious, playful nature. Anyone who has observed their feline companion knows how irresistibly tempting a piece of string or even a dot of light can be! Imagine the overwhelming intrigue of an indoor tree laden with ornaments and tiny flashing bulbs. To keep your furry friend safe for the season, we’ve compiled some common holiday household items to think twice about having within kitty’s reach.

Candies and Cookies Galore

‘Tis the season for cooking, baking, and candy-making. A plate of cookies or a bowl full of festively colored candies on the countertop might be tempting for you—consider how alluring it is to your cat! Equipped with a highly attuned sense of smell, the sweetly enticing aroma of chocolate and other sugary treats is nearly impossible for her to resist. Chocolate is toxic for both dogs and cats, so take extra care to keep it inaccessible to your pets.

Thinking of spiking the eggnog? Make sure you keep an eye on where you set down your cup! Alcohol is another substance that can sicken animals. It’s especially dangerous when mixed into sweet, aromatic beverages that appeal to your cat’s sensitive nose.

All Decked Out

Making garlands and hanging shimmering strands of tinsel may make the rooms of your home look lovely, but it’s asking for trouble when you have a little hunter or huntress stalking the premises. To your cat, there’s not much of a difference between a carefully strung garland and that piece of yarn you dangle in front of his eyes during playtime. Popcorn garlands are particularly at risk of getting snagged by reaching paws (An edible toy? Even better!). And of course, let’s not forget Christmas tree ornaments! Sparkling, glittery objects hanging like ripe fruit from the tips of the branches are bound to be targeted by your feline friend.

Besides the obvious outcome—your decorations get pulled down and ruined—some items pose a choking hazard or could cut your pet’s paws with broken and jagged shards. Candles can be dangerous, as well; avoid letting them burn unattended, lest they are knocked over and cause a fire.

The Gift of a Safe, Healthy Cat!

Cat owners may need to be more cautious with their seasonal decorations, but they don’t have to entirely quench their holiday spirit! Use common sense with ornament and food placement, and your home can still look bright, beautiful, and festive. Feel free to contact the cat veterinarians at our clinic if you have further questions or concerns, and we hope you all have a wonderful holiday!

How to Bond with Your Cat

How to Bond with Your Cat

There’s nothing quite like the bond between you and your cat. Whether you’re trying to form a connection with your newly adopted friend or strengthen the existing relationship with your furry companion of many years, there are a few tried and true methods of doing so. As with any pet, trust is key—if your cat trusts you, you’re already on your way to a beautiful relationship.

A common misconception that many people believe is that cats are incapable of having affection for their owners; every cat is unique, however, and although some might be more reserved than others, this certainly doesn’t mean that all felines are cold and unloving! If you are trying to form a bond with a cat that you recently brought home, take time to observe your new arrival. Is he playful? Does he try to engage with you or others? Is he shy and fearful? No matter his personality, it’s important to make him feel comfortable in his new surroundings. It is helpful to provide a special space or haven for your kitty to escape to when privacy is preferred; perhaps equip an area of the house with food, toys, and bedding.

As mentioned earlier, all cats are different, but it’s probably safe to say that no cat enjoys a chaotic, loud, unstable environment. When approaching your pet, try not to make quick sudden movements or jarring noises. This kind of activity is often frightening and does not contribute to earning your cat’s trust; rather, you’re more likely to be viewed as a threat to be avoided. Offer your hand slowly and gently when trying to stroke the soft coat of your feline. Talk in a low, soothing tone. Sit on the floor and allow your cat to come to you on her own terms. If you are patient and persistent, you may be rewarded with some contented purring!

Lastly, food is always an excellent incentive. Use regular cat food or special treats to teach your cat that social interaction is a positive experience. Make sure the feeding schedule is consistent, and try to pet or talk to your cat while she eats. As she comes to understand that you are a provider of both affection and tasty treats, she is far more inclined to approach you.

When it comes down to it, your cat wants to be sure that he or she is safe and well cared for. Treating your pet with love and respect is the best way to promote a strong bond, though you may need to wait a period of time for your cat to feel comfortable enough to show it! If you suspect that your feline may have anxiety issues that go beyond the normal “new surroundings jitters,” get in touch with your local cat veterinarian. The highly experienced and skilled doctors at The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill are more than capable of identifying and addressing feline behavioral issues. Contact the office today!

A Fit Cat is a Happy Cat!

Fit and Healthy Cat

For some, the appearance of a fat cat is irresistibly cute—but let’s consider the health of your pet first and foremost! When that extra pudge begins to threaten his or her overall well-being, it’s time to investigate the source of the problem. It’s a simple equation, really: overfeeding + lack of exercise = obesity for many cats. Happily, there are proactive steps you can take as a cat owner to restore your pet’s fitness. Take a look at four ways you can help curb your kitty’s weight:

  1. Correct Your Cat’s Diet

This one is definitely a no-brainer, but the answers as to “how” may not be so easily ascertained. Your best bet is to take your cat to a local veterinarian (like Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill!) and allow the professionals to determine your feline’s caloric requirements, which type of food best suits his or her needs, and what a suitable serving might look like for your cat’s diet. Ask about foods with normal amounts of fermentable fiber and fat to help keep your cat’s skin and coat in tip-top shape during the weight loss process.

  1. Get Your Cat in Shape

We don’t know of any cat gyms in the area, but that shouldn’t stop you from helping your companion become more active! Exercise has the power to burn calories, reduce appetite, transform body composition, and increase metabolic rate. It might seem unorthodox, but walking your cat is actually a great way to help increase both physical activity and mental stimulation. For indoor play, we suggest using interactive toys like plastic fishing poles and laser pointers.

  1. Adjust Your Own Behavior

If your cat is overweight because of overfeeding or a sedentary lifestyle, then it may be time to adjust your habits as a pet-owner. Giving your kitty too many treats or not providing enough opportunities for exercise could be the reasons behind your cat’s less-than-ideal physique.

  1. Limit or Monitor Your Cat’s Hunting

During their daily explorations, outdoor cats may be hunting and ingesting meals that you aren’t even aware of. In order to get serious about your cat’s weight, it may be necessary to keep your cat in the house for a while to avoid those unplanned dietary additions!

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!

Should I Let My Cat Outside?

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Perhaps you’ve observed your furry companion gazing almost wistfully at the great outdoors from behind the window and wondered, “What’s the harm in letting the poor little guy roam outside?” Many cat owners wonder if it’s cruel or unnatural to keep their feline friends cooped up indoors every day. Some feel that it is more humane to allow their pet to wander freely outside and return home at their leisure. As ideal as it sounds, there are actually quite a few consequences to this course of action!

First, let’s consider your pet’s safety: parasites, disease, cars, and other animals all pose significant threats to an outdoor cat—not to mention cruel people who abuse or kill wandering animals for “sport.” Outside of the security of your home, your cat is exposed to a variety of dangers and nuisances such as fleas, ticks, upper respiratory infections, feline distemper, and other health issues. No one wants to think about their beloved animal in discomfort or pain, but it’s important to be aware of these hazards.

Besides the health risks posed to your cat, there is also the issue of potential damage to the local environment. Has your furry friend ever brought you a “gift” in the form of a mangled mouse or battered bird? While it’s certainly beneficial to have this kind of pest control inside of the home, it is harmful and unnecessary outside of the house. According to American Humane Association, outdoor cats are estimated to kill hundreds of millions of birds each year, “yet birds are believed to be only 20 percent of the wildlife [they] kill.” This is especially concerning when the populations of native species begin to dwindle. Animal lovers should care about the well-being of both pets and wildlife!

So, should you let your cat wander freely, or should you bar all of the exits? Is there a middle ground? Let’s look at a few ways to keep frisky felines happy and stimulated inside of the home:

  • New toys! Satisfy your little hunter’s instincts by providing him or her with an interactive toy to chase (laser pointers, for example).

  • New friend! Have you thought about finding a compatible cat or dog to keep your current kitty company?

  • Posts, perches, and hiding places! Cats need designated surfaces on which to flex those claws, so be sure to provide them with some good scratching posts. Perches and fun, low-cost hiding places (such as cardboard boxes) are purr-fect for nice views and peaceful havens.

If you still feel that your companion deserves a little fresh air and time in nature, there is always the option of using a leash! Adult supervision, as well as the proper vaccinations from a cat veterinarian, will allow your feline to enjoy the great outdoors without the negative side effects. If your cat needs to be vaccinated, or if you have any questions regarding your furry friend, get in touch with the professionals at The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill! Call (856) 662-2662 today.

How Can I Make My Cat And Dog Get Along?

Cherry Hill veterinarian

Photo Credit: nguyen hoangnam

Ah, the battle of the most beloved house pets. We hear about their incompatible relationship all the time! Despite the hostility associated with this pair, we insist on throwing them together. According to recent studies at American Veterinary Medical Association, 44% of American pet owners have multiple-pet households, and the most common combinations include dogs and cats. Believe it or not, there are many healthy and friendly cat-dog relationships — some are even loving! Unfortunately, though, some cats and dogs can get defensive and aggressive with one another. So as a dog and cat lover, you may be wondering: how can I make my cat and dog get along?

Fighting Like Cats And Dogs

You can’t always predict how your pets will react to one another. The first few weeks is a crucial time, as the dog and cat are learning how to communicate with one another. A common problem between the two animals is dogs chasing cats. It may be playful on the dog’s part, but a fearful cat isn’t going to laugh it off. If it’s a fierce chase or biting is involved, that’s going to make matters worse. If neither of your pets are very aggressive, you’re going to have a better chance at getting them to tolerate each other. Either way, minimizing the aggression as much as possible is extremely important, for your animals’ safety and your own peace of mind.

What Can I Do?

You set the rules. As a pet owner, you must teach your dog self-control. Do not allow the dog to chase the cat. It might be hard to differentiate between play mode and attack mode, but if your cat is sensing danger, you’ll know. Make sure your cat has enough safety areas to climb and perch to escape from your dog and nap undisturbed. If possible, it would be helpful to match personalities and temperaments. An active, fun-loving dog would be better suited to an active, fun-loving cat, and so on. If your cat or dog is very timid and fearful, don’t get an overly domineering pet, or there’s bound to be chaos. Ideally, your new cat should be socialized to dogs, and vice versa.

At the end of the day, it depends on the similar or clashing dispositions of your pets. There’s nothing you can do to make them get along completely. They may never reach best friend status, but you can definitely train them to behave. Hopefully, they’ll grow to love and depend on each other, and when that happens, make sure you snap as many pictures as possible of them cuddling on the couch!

The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill is here to assist you and your feline pal with the highest-quality medical services. Contact us by calling (856) 662-2662 and set up an appointment today! Our caring doctors are eager to meet you and your pet.