Felines Archives - Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill

Finding the Right Veterinarian for Your Cat

06.26.24

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

Signs You’ve Found the Right Veterinarian For Your Cat

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

Your #1 Cherry Hill Cat Veterinarian

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

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

Cat Veterinarian in New Jersey

12.26.23

Your cat isn’t just your pet – they’re your friend and your family! When it comes to protecting the health of your family, you want nothing but the best. This year, if you’re looking for an experienced cat veterinarian in New Jersey, then look no further than the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill! We are a specialized veterinarian’s office with expertise in cat healthcare!

The Best Cat Veterinarian in New Jersey

There are many great vets in New Jersey, but most of them care for a variety of animals. But not all animals are the same! That’s why the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill specializes in cat healthcare. Here are 4 reasons you should choose the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill to care for your furry friend:

Experienced vet: Dr. John McCauley has specialized in feline healthcare for over two decades. It was always his dream to open a specialized clinic like the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill, and he continues to provide the best treatment, both medical and surgical, for every kitty that comes through the door.
Support staff: Our team is compassionate, friendly, and genuine. We understand that talking about your kitty’s health isn’t always easy. Your comfort and education about your cat’s situation and health are our top-priority. We always take care and time to make sure you and your cat are as comfortable as possible, and we are often willing to go the extra mile to ensure that you both have the best experience at our office as possible.
Feline specialization: The vets and vet techs at our office are experts in cat treatment and care. We provide both care for your cat and education for you on your cat’s health. We understand that your number one priority when entering our office is your cat’s health, which is why it’s also ours!
Continued education: If you have further questions or curiosities about cat care and health, our blog provides an educational space for you to learn more. We update monthly with new topics!

Choose the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill as Your Go-To Vet Office

When you choose the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill, you’re not just choosing the best care possible for your kitty, but also peace of mind that we have your cat’s best interests at heart. Our biggest concern is making sure your feline family member stays healthy and strong, and we promise to take the time to educate you on their health and treatment plan! The highly experienced professionals at our office can be trusted to provide the very best in specialized feline care, which is why we are the go-to cat veterinarian office in NJ. Set up an appointment for your furry friend today by calling our office (856) 662-2662.

Valentine’s Day Gifts for Cats

01.29.21

You and Your Kitty – A Love for the Ages

Whether you’re single or just socially distancing this Valentine’s Day, you may be looking to your kitty to keep you company this February 14^th. That’s cool, though. We all know that your kitty is the actual love of your life. Who has else been there for you through thick-and-thin, uncaring what you look like or whether you’ve actually got your life together? Your kitty doesn’t care and they love you know matter what! So show some love to the kitty in your life this Valentine’s Day by giving them what they really want – snuggles, food, and these Valentine’s Day gifts for cats!

Fun Valentine’s Day Gifts for Cats

Regular gifts for cats and Valentine’s Day gifts for cats aren’t really so different, but in case you can’t think of what to get your kitty, here’s some ideas:

Catnip: Yep. Pour yourself a nice drink and give that kitty some catnip. The two of you can snuggle up on the couch feeling nice and mellow. We know your cat doesn’t mind watching those cheesy rom-coms, as long as they’re with you!
New Food and Water Bowls: When was the last time your kitty got a new food bowl? Cracks and warps in their bowls can build up harmful bacteria. Get them a new bowl, and if you’re really feeling the love this Valentine’s Day, we know your kitty will love a heart-shaped one!
New toys: Kitties deserve some variety in their life, just like us! They get bored of the same toys, even if they’re well-loved. Get your kitty some new mice toys, string toys, scratching posts, or whatever type of toy your cat likes best. Players gonna play, and you should play with them!
Treats: No explanation necessary.

Happy Valentine’s Day from The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill

If you’re like us, your heart belongs to your kitty. So show that kitty some extra special love this year with some Valentine’s Day gifts for cats. And to ensure the love story you share with your cat continues for many years, make sure to schedule regular vet appointments with the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill. Call us to schedule yours at 856-662-2662! Happy Valentine’s Day!

Unusual Cat Myths for Halloween

10.29.18

halloween the cat clinic at cherry hill

Gather round the fire for these fun feline tales! During this spooky and superstitious time of year, most stories involving cats depict them as evil omens or the eerie companions of witches. Rather than dwell on the typical bad-luck black cat stereotype, The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill has gathered up a few legends that paint our four-legged friends in a less villainous light.

Cat Stories from Around the World

Buddhist belief: A sect of Buddhism once practiced in former kingdoms of Siam and Burma believed that when you die (if you were holy enough), your soul is placed in a cat for safekeeping. Later, when the cat passes away, that soul ascends to paradise. This sect of Buddhism reveres cats as a result and often has depictions of them sleeping at the feet of statues of Buddha. In Thailand (once Siam), they still observe a ritual of presenting a live (Siamese) cat adorned in gold jewelry to each new Thai king during his coronation. It is thought that the spirit of the old king can witness the new king’s coronation through the cat’s eyes.

English belief: It was once believed that cats were able to predict the weather—by observing your resident feline’s behavior, you could get some clues on the daily forecast! Clawing at carpets or curtains signaled windy weather ahead. A rigorous grooming of the ears meant rain was on the way—as did staring out the window or sleeping with all four paws tucked under his or her body. The Welsh believed that when a cat’s pupils expanded, a storm was approaching.

Scandinavian belief: Referring to Norwegian Forest Cats in particular, people believed these felines were the favorite animals of Freyja, the goddess of love and fertility. Giving a black cat to newlyweds was considered good luck, and farmers who hoped for bountiful harvests would leave dishes of milk outside for the fortuitous felines. We can’t be sure that actually helped their harvest, but there’s no doubt it solved any mouse infestations in the farmers’ barns!

Bring Your Favorite Feline to The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill

No matter your cat’s backstory or supernatural abilities, it’s important to bring him to a reputable cat veterinarian for yearly health checks. Wondering if the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill is the best place for your pet? We come highly recommended by our clients:

“We are so glad to have found Dr. McCauley and everyone at the Cat Clinic. Our four kitties are much less stressed during and after their visits. All of our questions and concerns are answered with patience and good humor, and we learn what we need to do to keep our kitties healthy for many years yet to come. We are from Philly and are happy to cross the bridge to Cherry Hill it is worth it. Thanks guys.” – Nellie J.

Give us a call at (856) 662-2662 if you’d like to set up an appointment for your cat! Or, check out where we are located and visit us at the office. We’d be happy to meet you and your furry family member!

A New Cat In the Family

02.01.18

Adopting a feline family member is an exciting time. There are toys to stock up on, beds and cat trees to set up, and lots and lots of funny, heartwarming moments to look forward to with your new pet. There are, however, a number of things you should do to prepare your home and family for the arrival of the new kitty (or kitties)! The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill can suggest three ways to make the transition smooth and stress-free for everyone.

Prep your other pets. Have some furry residents already living with you? It’s vital that you introduce the newcomer to the other animals in your household to ensure that everyone gets along first. Unfortunately, sometimes the new and old pets are simply incompatible—this needs to be determined before the adoption is finalized. In other cases, everyone in the house can live in harmony! It usually just takes a little time, patience, and diligent supervision in case conflicts arise.

Teach your kids how to be good pet owners. Bringing a cat into a household with children warrants a whole new set of concerns. Before your new pet even arrives, it’s a good idea to set some ground rules that will help keep both the kitty and the kids safe. For instance, decide if there are any areas of the house that will be off-limits to the four-legged family member. Perhaps you prefer the bedrooms to remain pet-free zones—tell your children ahead of time so that the cat knows from the start where he can and cannot roam.

Most importantly: Show your kids how to handle pets correctly. A yanked tail or overly tight squeeze could not only injure your new cat, it will likely lead to swift defensive action from the victim. Those little claws and fangs can cause a good deal of damage! Depending on the age of your children, it might be best to establish a “no holding the cat without adult supervision” policy. That way the cat is kept safe and your little ones learn how to treat animals with gentleness and respect.

Divvy up responsibilities. Plan ahead of time who will be in charge of feeding, who will be on litter box duty, who will take care of basic grooming, etc. Owning a new pet is fun for the whole family, but everyone should take part in caring for it properly! It’s a great way to teach kids accountability while they bond with their furry friend.

Adopt Double for Less Trouble!

05.11.17

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!

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!

Spring for a Vet Visit This Season!

03.13.17

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!

Benefits of Owning a Cat

01.13.16

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!

How to Bond with Your Cat

11.16.15

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!

10.16.15

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:

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.

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.

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.

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!