Cat jumped on turntable


OK, I know the obvious response about this but moving past ditching the cat . . . I was playing my VPI Scout 'table with a Dynavector Karat cartridge when the cat (Jack) leaped onto the 'table.  The tone arm slide across the record and the platter stopped.  After addressing the situation, I didn't see any obvious problems (but I have an untrained eye) and dropped the needle.  The tone arm immediately slide across the record to the center.  Upon reflection, it seemed like the tone arm was light since it moved pretty effortlessly.  Before taking it, I thought I would solicit some thoughts here.
scarlson
I would modify the way the turntable is placed, having an enclosure to protect it from a cat who could not understand this mechanics.

@scarlson - 

The problem has nothing to do with your turntable, arm or cartridge.  It's the cat that needs replacement.  I suggest a gold fish or a statue of a dog in the form of "His Master's Voice" that can be placed in front of one of your speakers.  
Yes on no stylus. 

Don't ditch the cat. That's too light of a punishment. Send kitty to permanent cat hell. Get a smart or assertive dog. 
@s2000cr

+2 for the cat

Agree with missing stylus.  Nothing at the end of the cantilever to hold the groove.

But don't try anymore record testing since the bare cantilever may damage the records.

When you do get a new cartridge of stylus, check your anti-skate setting.  Sounds like it's a bit off if the arm just skates across the record.