If you have a cat, then you’re well-aware that cats are prone to doing what they want when they want, which means it can be difficult to hold them still or groom them. Unfortunately, this includes when we need to give them their medicine. Cats can be picky eaters who also won’t sit still, but what do you do when a cat needs to take a pill? Afterall, it’s for their own good! The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill is here with a few tips on how to give a cat medication so that your cat can be healthy and happy, and you can escape the experience unscathed.

4 Tips and Tricks For Giving a Cat Medication!

We know administering medication to your cat can feel like a daunting task for both you and your kitty, but fear not! It’s definitely possible, and can even be easy with these tips, tricks, and tools.

1. Similar to dogs, some kitties will take medication easily if you hide it in their food. Especially that wet food they love so much. If you’re giving them a solid pill, you can even cut it into smaller pieces so it’s easier to consume. For cats that always finish their meal, this is a great option to try.
2. If your cat is usually calm and doesn’t mind being held, you can also try to directly place the pill in their mouth. Gently hold their mouth closed and tilt the head back so they will swallow the pill. If you are administering medicine through a syringe, this will also be the method you’ll want to use.
3. When holding your cat, it’s best to make sure they are comfortable, either in your lap or on a surface. For some cats, it may be beneficial or necessary to wrap them in a blanket with just their head sticking out while you give them their meds. This will neutralize those sharp claws to keep you safe from scratches!
4. Lastly, you can also try a helpful tool called a pill plunger! They sell them at most pet stores, as well as online. It’s a neat little device that allows you to directly put the pill into your cat’s mouth without endangering your fingers on those sharp teeth. 

Still Need Help? Speak with the Vet!

At the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill, we specialize in feline health, but giving cats their medication can be difficult even for our vets. Every cat is unique, so the same methods won’t always work for every cat! If you’re still struggling to give your cat the medication they need, give us a call at 856-662-2662. We are happy to walk you through the process, or give a demonstration at your cat’s appointment. Your cat’s health is our priority, and we want you to feel comfortable administering their at-home medication. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to our office! For more information about cat health, visit our blog!

If you’re getting into superstitions this spooky season, you may be wondering, are black cats bad luck or is it just a myth? Of course, you probably know the answer! This is just an old superstition meant to scare! Black cats are no more lucky or unlucky than any other kitties. So how did this superstition surrounding black cats come about? Where did it start? And what does it mean for our feline friends? The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill can answer your questions on why black cats are considered bad omens.

Why Are Black Cats Considered Bad Omens?

The superstition around black cats didn’t just pop up out of nowhere! There are a few sources for why we consider black cats to be bad luck:

• It’s popularly believed that the superstition about black cats first came to light 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 the home of a woman believed 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. Spooky!
• In America, this superstition can be traced to a dark point in US history: 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 long been associated with everyone’s favorite spooky villains: vampires!
• To drive the superstition home, many other black animals were also seen as harbingers of doom. Ravens and crows have a reputation for being unlucky and malicious, probably due to their high intelligence and recognition of human faces, and this later transferred to black cats as well.

Bad Luck for Black Cats – Adopt a Black Cat Today!

While these superstitions might make for some spooky holiday fun for us, it’s not always good for black cats. This reputation as unlucky has unfortunately 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!

As a cat owner, we know one reason a cat makes a great pet is their relatively long life spans! When we adopt a kitty, they might be part of our family for fifteen or even twenty years. However, as your kitty ages, you may notice some behavioral changes. Just like some humans, older cats might sleep more, play less, get needier or more distant than before, or change their eating habits. This is completely natural! When it comes to taking care of older cats, it’s important to keep track of all their behavioral changes and keep an open line of communication with the vet to ensure your kitty is as healthy as possible. 

How to Take Care of Older Cats

A cat is typically considered a senior cat once they reach 10 or 11 years old, and at 15 years old, they are geriatric. Taking care of aging cats isn’t always easy as their needs change. Here are a few tips on how to make life a little easier for your senior or geriatric cat:

• Provide easy access to necessities. This means food, water, and their litter box. If your home is multi-level, you may consider putting access to these on every floor to make your cat’s life easier. Older cats may have arthritis or other health problems that make moving up and down floors very often too difficult.
• Provide them with a night light! While many younger kitties love low light, some older kitties begin to lose their eyesight a bit and have a hard time seeing in the dark. Keep a nightlight in areas they access frequently after the sun goes down.
• Keep their living space at a good temperature. Cats love to lounge in a warm spot. If they don’t have access to natural sunspots in their living space, consider other methods of warming their favorite spots, like a small space heater.
• Help your cat out when they’re struggling. We all need a little help sometimes, even cats. Give them a boost to their favorite windowsill or carry them downstairs if they’re having a hard time. Your care and attention is great for their mental health.
• Schedule regular vet appointments. As with humans, maintaining good health as cats get older can be more difficult than when they were young. Preventative care or treating issues as quickly as possible will help your cat stay happy and healthy as they age. 

Let the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill Treat Your Older Cat

At the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill, we are cat experts who know the ins and outs of taking care of older cats. We treat many medical issues in geriatric cats like arthritis, diabetes, chronic illness, and more. Aging doesn’t have to be painful for your feline friend. Give them the support and love they need by giving us a call at 856-662-2662.

We could all use a little more exercise in our lives, and your cat is no exception! You may be wondering if exercising a cat is even possible! Cats do love to play but can often get bored quickly and flop right down after two minutes of playtime! Here’s a few tips on how to exercise your furry friend from the experts at The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill.

4 Tips for Exercising a Cat

Playtime is exercise time, but what do you do when your cat gets bored quickly or just isn’t interested? Here are a few tips on how to exercise a cat:

1. Change up the environment – Cats love varied enrichment! Your cat might just be bored playing in the same area every day. Adding fresh, new obstacles and toys every once in a while can really liven things up. Switching out your old cat tree for a new scratching post or cat-tunnel may be just the boost your cat needs to feel interested again.
2. Try short sessions a few times per day – Your cat may have a short attention span (don’t we all?), so 10-15 minutes of playtime is all your cat may be interested in. That’s okay! Try playing a few times per day if you have a few minutes here and there. Repeated playtime isn’t just great for your cat’s physical health, but for their mental health, too!
3. Remember: Toys = Prey – Your cat is a natural predator! They will want to bite, chew, scratch, and chase. If you want your cat to exercise, encouraging this behavior is a great idea! Be prepared for them to chew up or destroy their toys just as you might expect with a dog. It’s natural and not only will it help them stay active, but you’ll notice they’re happier as well!
4. Try puzzle toys – Feathers and laser pointers are great, but a bored cat (or a lazy one) might just feel they’ve outsmarted that toy already. Puzzle toys will keep a mindful cat’s interest for longer.

Concerned for Your Cat’s Health? Call the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill

If you’re having trouble getting your cat to exercise, or you’re concerned about their health, eating habits, or weight, it’s time to talk to the vet! Call the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill for more information on how to exercise a cat, our medical services, or to schedule an appointment at 856-662-2662.

For most pet owners, their pets are their best friends. And when it comes to the health of your best friend, you want nothing but the best care possible! If you’re looking for the best cat vet in Cherry Hill, then look no further than the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill! We are a specialized veterinarian’s office with expertise in cat healthcare!

Specialized Care for Your Special Friend

When it comes to your cat, you want to provide them with nothing but the best! That’s why the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill specializes in cat healthcare:

• 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! 
• Dr. John McCauley has been a feline specialist 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 be devoted to providing the best medical and surgical care for every kitty that comes through the door.
• Our support staff is compassionate, friendly, and genuine. We know talking about your kitty’s health can be anxiety-inducing and stressful. We will never respond with rudeness or impatience when our clients have questions, and we are often willing to go the extra mile to ensure that your experience here is as positive and low-stress as possible. We do our best to educate you on the specifics of your cat’s health and treatment plan.
• Our blog provides an educational space for you if you have further questions or curiosities about cat care and health!

Your Best Friend Deserves the Best – Choose the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill 

When you choose the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill, we promise not only to provide 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 care, every time, which is why we are the best cat vet in Cherry Hill. Set up an appointment with us today by calling (856) 662-2662.

It’s no secret that the holidays are a stressful time. Visiting family, cooking up a storm, and making sure to get the perfect present for everyone on your list is enough to make even the most organized person start to feel the pressure. But how does the holiday season impact your furry friends? And, more importantly, what can you do to help with holiday pet stress during this busy time?

Signs Your Cat is Anxious

Changes in Behavior

Some cats LOVE to be around their person, others prefer to be by themselves, but any drastic changes in your cat’s behavior, such as extreme isolation or uncharacteristic clinginess, could indicate that their stress levels are a bit high.

They Have a LOT to Say

If you have a chatty cat, it may be difficult to determine if your cat is more vocal than usual, but changes in the quantity, volume, or tone of your cat’s meow may be due to increased anxiety. They’re stressed and they want you to know it!

“Accidents” Happen

If your cat suddenly “forgets” how to use the litterbox, it’s time to take a hard look at what could be causing your pet so much stress. They can’t tell you what’s wrong, so they have to behave in a way that shows you how they are feeling. It may be smelly and annoying to have to clean up after your pet when they miss the litterbox, but it’s important to understand how they are feeling so you can do your best to improve the situation sooner rather than later. 

Increased Irritability

If your cat starts acting out, biting, and scratching – even when unprovoked – it’s time to take a trip to the vet to figure out what’s wrong. Small behavioral changes could indicate environmental stress but if your cat adopts a whole new personality, it could be a sign that something much more serious is going on. 

How to Help Reduce Holiday Pet Stress

Keep your Kitty Busy

Just like overstimulation can lead to anxiety, understimulation can lead to boredom and acting out. Making sure your cat has plenty of ways to keep busy like cat trees, interactive toys, and of course quality time to play with you, is key to keeping them stimulated and reduce anxiety. 

Quiet Down

Cats have sensitive ears, making the hustle and bustle of the holiday season especially loud and stressful for them. Keeping devices at a moderate volume and giving your cat an area to go to escape the noise are two simple ways to reduce overwhelm and help your cat calm down. 

Talk to a Professional

If your cat is still showing serious signs of stress despite your intervention, there may be something else going on. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your vet for additional advice, tips, or insight into your cat’s behavior. Remember, your pets are your family too and it’s important to take care of them during the holiday season. 

When it comes to pet stress, know you can always come to The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill for advice and insight into your cat’s behavior. Whether it’s a recent change in attitude or an ongoing behavioral issue, we’ll do whatever we can to assess the situation and help you come up with a solution that works for your pet and your family. Contact the office today to schedule an appointment!

Your cat is just as important to you as the rest of your family, so it’s obvious you want them to enjoy the holiday festivities with you. However, it’s important to remember that cats need a little bit more supervision than your actual relatives. When keeping certain holiday traditions alive this year, keep these tips in mind to ensure you keep your feline friends alive too!

Candles & Fireplaces

Nothing says “Holidays” quite like seasonal candles and a crackling fire – and your cats agree! Unfortunately, they can’t always control their love for a warm fire and risk getting too close for their own safety. Singed whiskers, knocked over candles, and other curious cat adventures can lead to injury and even a loose fire in your home! Always keep candles where your cat cannot reach them and keep a shield/guard in between any open fire and your cat. 

Human Food

Dogs may have the reputation of begging but cats are no strangers to asking for human food. While it’s tempting to give your cats a little extra food during the holidays, be sure you are being conservative and not giving your cat toxic foods like onion, chocolate, and avocado. While your cat may be smart enough to avoid these foods on their own, they may be tempted to try foods with these ingredients and get sick later on. Slivers of lean meat and certain vegetables are safe snacks, but be sure to avoid fatty foods, dairy products, and sugary treats. 

Holiday Chaos

Your cat may be ok with the occasional visitor during the normal weeks, but nothing quite compares to the chaos of houseguests, holiday parties, and general noise of the holiday season. If your cat is showing signs of stress, closing them in a safe, comfortable room where they can hide from the chaos and noise is the best way to calm them down and reduce their stress. 

Traveling

If you’ll be away for the holidays, you may be tempted to bring your cat with you, but the stress (for both of you!) is usually not worth it. While boarding facilities are an option while you are away, cats typically prefer to stay in their own environment. Your best bet is to find a pet sitter (even better if it’s someone your cat knows) who can come to the house 1-2x a day to put out fresh food, scoop the litter, and give your cat the love that they deserve. 

Whether you’re headed home for the holidays or hosting the fam at your place, it’s important to remember your furry friends. If you need help getting your pet ready for travel, finding a boarding facility, or just general wellness, be sure to visit the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill. We’re more than happy to help with all of your cat questions!