Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill

How To: Keep Your Cat Calm for the Vet

brown tabby cat

We know better than most that all cats are different. But if there’s one thing that our feline friends seem to have in common, it’s an affinity for making every trip to the vet as difficult as possible. From fighting to get in the car to giving their owners the silent treatment post-visit, every cat handles a trip to the vet a little bit differently. Fortunately, there are some tried and true ways to keep your cat calm for the vet and make this process a whole lot less painful for you (and your pet!). 

Play Doctor

No, we aren’t suggesting you take matters into your own hands when it comes to your cat’s health, but it can be helpful to get your cat used to being handled in a similar way to how they are handled when at the vet. Regularly handling your cat and performing brief check-ups can make the process of going to the vet more familiar (and therefore less scary) for your cat. 

Get Out!

We know that cats make great housepets, but that’s no excuse to keep them cooped up all the time. If the only time your cat leaves the house is to visit the vet, they may begin to only associate their carrier and the car with a vet appointment. Simply taking your cat for a spin (even if it’s just around the neighborhood) can help them feel more comfortable in the car and their carrier, leading to a lot less protesting next time you visit the vet. 

Check Yourself

Does going to the vet stress you out? Your cat can probably tell! By keeping calm and talking to your cat in soft, reassuring words with gentle petting, your cat won’t absorb your stress and will likely remain calm throughout the visit. Have questions? Your highly experienced cat veterinarian already knows the proper method of soothing and handling your feline friend, so follow their lead and your kitty will stay calm cool and collected on their next visit. 

Are you still struggling to get your cat to the vet? Do you have other tips that help make the process easier? We want to know! Once you visit our practice, you are sure to find that the knowledgeable and caring staff at The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill have years of experience in making anxious felines feel completely at ease!

Do’s & Don’ts: Leaving Your Cat Home Alone

Schools are starting to let out and it’s about to officially be summer vacation. You’ve got your swimsuit, sunscreen, and beach reads packed but wait! What about your furry friends? If you’re not staying with a friend or at a pet-friendly hotel, bringing your cat on vacation probably isn’t an option. While leaving your cat home alone might be tempting, we highly advise against it.

Why Can’t I Leave My Cat Home Alone?

We get this question all the time. Your cat is so self-sufficient. They basically ignore you all day when you are home, so what does it matter if you leave them alone for a few days?

Emergencies

The last thing you want to think about is a disaster in your home while you’re on vacation, but it’s an important possibility to consider – especially when there is a pet at home. In the event of a fire, power outage, or other natural disaster, you want to be sure that your pet is safely evacuated and cared for in your absence.

Stress

You may think your pet doesn’t notice you when you’re there, but they actually do! When you leave for a long period of time – even just a long weekend – your pets notice your absence and the change in routine can be incredibly stressful! If you can’t be with your pet, the comfort of a friend, neighbor, or pet sitter will help keep your pet company and make your vacation less stressful for them.

Destruction

Pets make messes. When left unsupervised, no toilet paper roll, shoe, or piece of furniture is safe from their mischief. Leaving your cat alone for an entire vacation gives them a lot of time to scratch, chew, and attempt to destroy the contents of your home.

What Should I Do with My Cat when I Go On Vacation?

We hope that by now you’ve decided leaving your cat home alone for vacation is a bad idea, but what should you do instead? If you’re going on a short trip, or are having someone else watch your house, asking a friend or neighbor to look after your cat is a great option. For longer trips or if you don’t have anybody available, professional pet sitters and boarding lodges are excellent ways to ensure your kitty is cared for while you’re gone.

Need a recommendation? Want to check that your pet is in tip top shape before your summer vacay? The The Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill is here to help! Contact us by calling (856) 662-2662 and set up an appointment today! Our caring doctors are eager to meet you and your pet.

Featured Breed: The Siamese Cat

siamese cat

For a lot of people (particularly Disney fans), the first thing that comes to mind when they see a Siamese cat is the scene from Lady and the Tramp in which the twin cats, Si and Am, wreak havoc in the house. Don’t let those two mischievous characters sway your opinion of this beautiful breed! Those who own or have owned Siamese cats know that they are sociable, affectionate, and fantastic companions. We at the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill have had some patients of this particular breed at our office, and we can attest that they are stunning beauties with a lot of personality! Read on to learn a few things you might not have known about Siamese cats.

Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill

There are actually two types of this breed: the show cats, and the traditional Siamese cats. How do they differ? The show variety have triangular or “wedge”-shaped heads with very large ears. They also have longer, more lithe bodies than traditional Siamese cats, which tend to be more compact with rounder, less angular heads. Both varieties, however, are known for their gorgeous and expressive clear blue eyes.

Thailand is their country of origin. For those who know their history, Thailand was originally known as Siam–hence the meaning behind “Siamese” cats. Long ago, these eye-catching kitties were favored by royalty and could often be found in temples and palaces. The very first “dignitary” of the breed arrived in the United States in the year 1878.

They like to make their voices heard. Siamese cats have the well-earned reputation of being very vocal! If you have one of your own, you’re probably nodding your head in agreement at this statement. These chatty cats will “talk” at any occasion, whether it’s at mealtimes or when they’re looking for some attention from their preoccupied human. And they will want your undivided attention! Siamese cats are quite social and sometimes described as needy or clingy.

Beauties with brains: Highly intelligent and quick to learn tricks, Siamese cats are surprisingly trainable and can even be taught to walk on a leash. Because of their sharp minds, these fast-learning felines relish mental stimulation and physical challenges. Provide them with interactive toys and make room in your schedule for daily playtime to keep your cat fit–and to prevent him from becoming bored or destructive.

A Cat Veterinarian For All Breeds

There’s no denying that the Siamese is a beautiful and fascinating breed. We’re here to make sure that cats of all breeds are kept in the best of health, so if your four-legged friend could use our medical services, give the friendly professionals at the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill a call at (856) 662-2662! You can also take a look at where we are located and come on in to see the office and make an appointment.

Don’t Let the Cat Catch Cold

keep cat warm in winter

It should come as no surprise to seasoned cat-owners that our feline companions have a strong aversion to the cold. We at the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill know the lengths some cats will go to in order to keep the chill out of their bones. (On that note, this is a reminder to bang on the hood of the car before starting it up, just in case a cat is napping on the warm engine!) It’s important that we help our beloved pets stay comfortable and safe from winter’s frigid temperatures. After all, cats can get sick with a cold too! Here are three things you can do to make sure your favorite four-legged family member stays warm, comfy, and healthy as the weather gets colder—without having to bump up the thermostat all day.

Create Sunny Spots

It’s a free, all-natural solution to chilly indoor temperatures! Open the blinds and let those warm rays in. Kitty can soak up the heat by napping in sunny areas on the floor and furniture throughout the day, and it will brighten up the house!

Nothing Beats A Heated Bed

This is a great option for those who really love to spoil their furry friends. With heated cat beds, you typically just have to plug it in, adjust the temperature gauge, and let your pet snuggle luxuriously in the toasty cushions. These beds can be bought at the pet store or online.

Stay Active

Of course, there’s always physical activity to get the blood pumping and the body warmed up! Toss some jingly toys or break out the laser pointer to get your playful hunter or huntress zooming around the room. Not only will this chase away the shivers, it’ll keep your cat fit!

Under the Weather? Visit the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill

If kitty has the sniffles despite your best efforts to keep him warm, it’s time to call the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill. Symptoms of illness to look out for include sneezing, coughing, eye and or nose discharge, and possibly a loss of appetite. At our office, we have years of experience caring for felines both old and young, and our clients can attest that we genuinely love and enjoy each one of our patients:

“Dr. McCauley is the best veterinarian I’ve ever taken a cat to! The entire staff is kind, knowledgeable, and caring. They understand cats and treat them with such compassion that it feels like they love my cat as much as I do! I will never go anywhere but here! The prices are so reasonable but I’d pay anything to this practice as they are really unbelievable. Makes me believe there are still wonderful doctors in the world, and they are here!” – Allyson L.

Contact the office if you need to schedule an appointment, and stay warm!

Why Does My Cat Get Crazy At Night?

Cherry hill cat veterinarian are cats nocturnal

Here’s a fun feline fact that cat owners are well aware of: Cats like to sleep–a lot. On average, our feline friends sleep about 16 hours per day. Some of these snoozes are just “cat naps,” or periods of light rest during which kitty is still fairly alert enough to quickly wake up and respond to outside stimuli. Then there are the deep slumbers that almost make it seem like your cat is in a comfortable coma. With all of this shuteye during the day, this begs the question: Are cats nocturnal? Clients visiting the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill have asked us this quite a few times, and we’re happy to enlighten everyone on the subject!

Word of the Day: Crepuscular

For the most part, domestic cats are not necessarily nocturnal–they are crepuscular, which means that dawn and dusk are their most active hours. Those of us who have feline housemates can attest that the same kitties we see zonked out on the couch all day are suddenly bouncing off the walls when we’re tucked in for the night! While it can certainly be amusing to hear your cat scampering from room to room as you lie in bed, some people find it a bit detrimental to their own sleeping schedule. We suggest taking some time during the day to play with your cat to allow them to expend some energy sooner rather than later in the night.

Visit Your Cherry Hill Cat Veterinarian

Whether your kitty gets the nighttime crazies or is more of a daytime frolicker, it’s important that he’s getting adequate exercise to keep him fit and happy. Another essential part of keeping your furry friend in good health is bringing him to your trusted Cherry Hill cat veterinarian for a yearly checkup! Our clients have nothing but good things to say about their experiences with our friendly team:

“My experience started off great even before my visit. Shannon at the front desk worked so hard to fit my cat in as soon as possible. I appreciated all her efforts. Our actual visit was excellent. The doctor and tech were SO good with my Gracie that I couldn’t believe how well behaved she was. The doctor was thorough and took time to explain things to me. I can’t imagine taking her anywhere else now! So thankful for this awesome staff!” – Katie M.

Contact the office to set up an appointment, and don’t hesitate to call us at (856) 662-2662 if you have any pressing questions or concerns. Our clinic is located at 35 Haddonfield Road, Cherry Hill, New Jersey. We hope to see you and your feline family member soon!

Adopt Double for Less Trouble!

Cat Clinic At Cherry Hill adopt two cats

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

Safety in Numbers

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

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

Adopt two cats Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill

The Cat Veterinarian Cherry Hill Residents Trust

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

The Love Language of Cats

Cat owner

One of the classic “Dogs make better pets than cats” arguments is that cats show their owners no affection; dogs, on the other hand, are quite demonstrative with their love. It isn’t hard to picture an adoring dog with its human: tongue lolling, gaze following its master’s every move, eagerly obeying every command, exuberantly jumping up to lick a hand or face…You don’t usually see this level of enthusiasm from felines. Does that mean your cat doesn’t love you? Of course not. Although understated, your kitty’s subtle affection is just as valid as a dog’s exuberant warmth. Here are a few of the ways cats show their love for the special humans in their lives:

  1. Staring: Holding your gaze and blinking slowly is a cat’s way of letting you know that she trusts you and feels at peace in your company. A fearful or unhappy feline is more interested in running off and hiding than initiating and holding eye contact. The next time you catch your furry friend staring at you dreamily, you can recognize it as a form of engagement and trust!
  2. Meowing: Did you know that cats only meow to humans? They don’t communicate this way to other cats. Feel free to meow back and have a conversation with your kitty! Meowing and purring speak volumes of your cat’s affection for you.
  3. Following: You walk into the living room to take a seat on the couch when you notice that you have a shadow following close behind. The same little shadow follows you into the kitchen as you get a glass of water, then comes along as you hike up the stairs toward your bedroom. If your cat seems to be stalking you, chances are he enjoys your presence and just doesn’t want you out of his sight.
  4. Grooming and kneading: Sometimes the sandpaper-like tongue of your cat can be a bit abrasive on your hand, and kneading can be a bit painful when the claws come out; nevertheless, those behaviors are gestures of love! Let it happen.
  5. Sitting in your lap: It may not always be at the most convenient of times (when you’re sitting on the couch trying to eat and watch television, for example), but when your cat plops down in your lap, she’s trying to get close to you and feels comfortable enough to do so. Take a moment to cuddle your furry friend!

Not all cats show their affection the same way, but it’s their unique personalities that endear them to us in the first place. How does your kitty demonstrate his or her love? Leave us a comment or a photo on the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill Facebook page! And to show your love for your feline family member, be sure to visit your trusted cat veterinarian for regular checkups throughout the year.

Featured Breed: Maine Coon

Maine Coon Cat

You don’t need us to tell you that cats are beautiful and diverse animals, coming in an array of colors, sizes, and personalities. According to the International Progressive Cat Breeders Alliance (IPCBA), there are as many as 73 recognized domestic cat breeds, the largest of which is the Maine Coon (also known as the American Longhair). Anyone who owns or has owned a cat of this gorgeous breed can tell you that they have some distinct characteristics that make them quite unique. Take a look at a few facts you may not have known about the Maine Coon!

They actually enjoy being in the water! Most cats we know aren’t too fond of getting their paws wet, and when it comes time to give them a bath—good luck. Maine Coons, on the other hand, are not averse to taking a dip. Their thick coats are water-resistant and they swim better than you might expect!

Maine Coons are often thought to have dog-like qualities. There are notable temperament differences between a typical dog and a typical cat; many would argue that dogs are (for the most part) more demonstrative and “needy” for attention. Cats are often seen as aloof and unaffectionate with a low social need. Maine Coons defy this stereotype with their friendly, playful nature and high level of interaction with their owners. You could teach this fantastic feline to play fetch and even walk him on a leash!

They have a voice and aren’t afraid to use it! Some cats are definitely more vocal than others. When boredom sets in or it’s getting a little past regular dinnertime, loud, demanding meowing often ensues. Much to the entertainment of their owners, Maine Coons prefer to express themselves through frequent chirps and “trills,” which are combinations of meows and purrs. These talkative kitties are great company for those who like to keep up a steady stream of conversation!

They are not actually related to raccoons. It’s only a myth that this breed is a cross between a wild cat and a raccoon; more likely, they originally were the product of matings between short-haired domestic cats and longhairs that came to America with the Vikings.

These pretty kitties cost a pretty penny. Interested in having one of these gorgeous and quirky cats for your own? You might want to save up—a Maine Coon costs up to $1000 on average. Adoption might be your cheapest option, so start looking into rescue organizations!

If you are lucky enough to own a Maine Coon and have questions about his or her health, don’t hesitate to get in touch with your knowledgeable cat veterinarian. We at the Cat Clinic at Cherry Hill love kitties of all breeds and are invested in keeping your beloved pet healthy and happy for years to come.

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.