Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill

Why Are Black Cats Unlucky?

Superstition or Truth: Are Black Cats Unlucky?

It’s just about Halloween, so for the superstitious out there, you may be wondering why black cats are unlucky or if this is just a myth. Of course, you probably guessed! This is just an old spooky tale! Black cats are no more lucky or unlucky than any other kitties. So how did black cats get such a bad reputation? Where did it start? And what does that mean for black cats? The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill can answer your questions on why black cats are considered bad omens.

Where Did Black Cats Get a Bad Reputation?

  • It’s believed that this superstition began in the Middle Ages. An old European folk tale tells the story of a man and his son who saw a limping black cat and decided to throw rocks at it. The cat ran for cover inside a woman’s house. The nearby people believed this woman to be a witch, and when she appeared limping the next day similar to the injured black cat, the common people thought the witch must be the cat in disguise. Now that’s a tall tale!
  • Black animals were also seen as harbingers of doom. Ravens and crows also have a bad reputation, and this later transferred to black cats as well.
  • In America, this superstition can be traced to the Salem witch trials. Black cats who belonged to women accused of witchcraft were seen as devilish and evil. Witches could even transform into black cats to slink in the shadows and cast evil spells on people while disguised.
  • Just like bats, black cats have been associated with vampires!

Bad Omens are Bad Luck for Black Cats – Ask Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill About Adopting

Black cats are often seen as unlucky and portrayed alongside witches and other bad omens in classic media, and although this might make for a spooky holiday, it’s not always good for the cats. This reputation has made black cats the least likely to be adopted among all cats. This Halloween, you might consider changing the luck for a black cat by adopting it into your forever home. Ask the professionals at Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill for more information on upcoming adoption events and how you might adopt a black kitty this Halloween. Call us at 856-662-2662 or visit our website!

Unusual Cat Myths for Halloween

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!

The Misunderstood Black Cat

black cat Halloween superstition

We are nearing the end of October and Halloween is practically upon us! In preparation for the holiday, many yards and homes are eerily decorated with artfully posed skeletons, oversized spiders, grinning Jack-o’-lanterns, and the classic “spooky” black cat. Whether in movies or decor, these foreboding felines are usually depicted with glowing yellow eyes and arched backs, fanged mouths open mid-hiss. Of course, their sinister or unlucky reputation is nothing more than superstitious folklore; yet black cats remain the least likely to get adopted in animal shelters.

Here at the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill, we see kitties of all colors and patterns and we find them equally charming (though we have mentioned the reputed good-natured personalities of orange tabby cats!). Here are a few things you may not have known about black cats and how views of them have changed over time.

From Sacred to Satanic?

Long associated with witchcraft and devilry, black cats were (and often still are) targeted by people with violent intentions. In Ancient Egypt, however, these kitties were considered sacred and thought to bring prosperity to a home—to harm one was to risk being a target of violent consequences yourself! Those who hailed from England also had a more positive attitude toward the ebony-coated felines. Take one on board a sailing vessel and the ship would not only be mouse-free, it would bring its passengers to their destination safe and sound.

While Europeans may believe it is good luck to have a black cat cross your path, there are others who would argue the exact opposite. The belief that these particular felines were connected to evil beings started in the Middle Ages, which is why so many of them were cruelly hunted down and killed by many superstitious folk. Some firmly believed that they were witches in animal form! To this day, black cats are associated with witchcraft and are even sought after for use in Halloween rituals. Some animal shelters refuse to adopt out black cats this time of year to prevent the wrong people from getting their hands on them. We much prefer that these sleek, beautiful felines find good homes with loving owners—that’s why it’s important to dispel the false notions that they are evil or bad luck.

New Jersey cat veterinarian

Black Cats Need Love Too

Anyone who has been to our office knows that we are indiscriminate in our love for feline friends. Kitties of all coat colors deserve the same level of affection and care, regardless of the superstitions attached to them. If you have a black cat at home, we encourage you to share photos on the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill Facebook page! And remember to keep your four-legged companion healthy by keeping up with those biannual visits with the cat veterinarian Cherry Hill residents trust. We hope everyone has a fun and safe Halloween!

Featured Breed: The Ragdoll

Cherry Hill Cat Veterinarian Ragdoll Cat

Anyone who has been to our practice can tell you that this Cherry Hill cat veterinarian isn’t biased when it comes to which breeds are most preferable–we love them all! We have found, however, that many of our patients express a special fondness for Ragdoll cats, and it’s not hard to see why. These felines are crowd favorites due to their strikingly beautiful appearance, docile nature, and their impressive ability to learn a few simple commands and tricks, such as fetch. Read on for a brief rundown on the history and characteristics of the charming Ragdoll breed!

California Breedin’

Ragdolls entered the scene during the 1960s when Ann Baker, a breeder in California, crossed a stray domestic white longhaired female cat with other free-roaming cats in her care. The results of this experimental breeding were kittens with ideal temperaments and attractive physical attributes. Baker continued to cross the offspring with individuals that possessed these desirable traits; thus, the Ragdoll breed was born.

Winning Personalities

The first question that may come to mind with this breed is, “What’s with the name?” These unique, lovable kitties are called “ragdolls” for a reason–when picked up and cuddled, they have a tendency to collapse into their owner’s arms. Ragdolls love to be held and will actively seek closeness with their humans whenever possible by staying near to your side and even greeting you at the door!

With such a strong need for attention, you might think that these cats would be exceptionally vocal. Not necessarily…Ragdolls will politely meow for food or a snuggle but are not known for being loud or persistent noisemakers. They are also unique in that they prefer not to ascend to great heights in the house. Their climbing habits typically only get them as far as the couch or bed rather than on high counters or tabletops. These well-mannered felines do enjoy a good scratching session, however, so provide some fun scratching posts to keep your cat happy and entertained.

Bring Your Ragdoll to the Best Cherry Hill Cat Veterinarian

Are you a proud owner of a Ragdoll cat? If so, you don’t need us to tell you what wonderful and affectionate friends they make! Be sure to keep your beloved kitty in his or her best health so you can continue to enjoy that special companionship for years and years to come. Our office is renowned for being the cat veterinarian Cherry Hill residents trust for the best feline care. We can’t wait to meet your furry family member; get in touch today to set up an appointment!

Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill Ragdoll kittens

Benefits of Owning a Cat

benefits-of-owning-a-cat

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!

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?

Screen Shot 2015-10-07 at 9.52.58 AM

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.

History of the Domestic Cat

domestic cat history

Photo Credit: Dubravko Soric
Here’s a question that might keep you up at night. You look over at your cat, who is sleeping and purring peacefully next to you, and you wonder…how did you get here? Where did the domestic cat come from, and why did it make its home among people?

According to this Smithsonian article, all domestic cats descended from a Middle Eastern wildcat, Felis sylvestris, which translates to “cat of the woods.” Cats were first domesticated in the Near East, and it is speculated that this process began over, wait for it… 12,000 years ago.

What was happening 12,000 years ago?

The first agricultural societies began to flourish in the Middle East’s Fertile Crescent. The development of grain stores brought economic growth, but it also brought some undesirable visitors: rodents. Cats took advantage of this abundant food source and stuck around these early towns, just like feral cats today. Cats became an asset to crop owners because they turned out to be effective pest control!

Some people argue that cats, in a sense, domesticated themselves. Cats appeared to have invited themselves in, and over time people began to regard them fondly, especially cats with friendlier traits. Many cats adapted to this new farmland environment, which produced the dozens of house cat breeds we know and love today- the felis catus. Pet, stray, and feral cats all belong to this species that we call the domestic cat.

Cats have traveled and lived among people across the globe.

  • A burial site in Cyprus offers the first archaeological evidence of humans and cats living side-by-side, as far back as 9500 BC.
  • In ancient Egypt, cats were worshipped, mummified, and, as artwork suggests, kept on leashes as part of the cult of the goddess Bastet.
  • Cats boarded ships to the Americas, from Europe, and acted as pest control. Cats reportedly journeyed with Christopher Columbus, with the settlers at Jamestown, and aboard the Mayflower.

By the end of the 19th century, many Americans were starting to keep cats for not only utility purposes, but for companionship. Toward the end of World War I, cats were commonly accepted as house pets in the United States. Nowadays, cats are the most popular house pet, with 90 million domesticated cats getting cozy in 34% of U.S. homes.

Your love for your cats is expressed in how well you care for them! For superb veterinary services and devoted doctors, contact the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill at (856) 662- 2662. It’s our mission to keep your cats happy, healthy, and thriving for years to come!