We all know that loving Maine Coons and Maine Coon mixes is easy. But did you know that you also have to love your vet so that you can ensure the very best care for your babies?

Here is our vet, Audrey Ricklefs. Let me tell you a little about her.

You can read her full biography here. We love that she was reared on a farm near Rolfe, Iowa. Why? Because farmers have to care for their animals, making sure they are free of disease and content in their environments. That’s a big plus for us because Dr. Ricklefs instinct was shaped since her childhood.

What we love most about her is the special place in her heart for kittens. She is taking great care of our Siggy and Freya.

Today she gave us an estimation of their continued growth. Let’s see if she is accurate (and I bet she will be.)

Siggy, she says, will top out at about 12 pounds. But Freya will be bigger, about 12-14 pounds. That’s a big cat. That’s twice the size of our Frodo who crossed the rainbow bridge earlier this year.

Dr. Ricklefs saved Frodo’s life a number of times. Frodo was blocked, meaning he could not pee, and while other vets recommended that we change gender from male to female, our vet recommended a special dry food that cured his illness for almost seven years.

She took great care of Frodo.

Her staff is caring and empathetic. When Frodo passed, they sent cards and reassurances. That was important to me and made me want to adopt new kittens.

If you live in Ames, Dr. Ricklef’s animal hospital is a great resource for your pets. Our vet also cares for pocket pets, birds, reptiles and other exotic pets. I’m a distinguished professor at Iowa State University of Science and Technology, and Dr. Ricklefs is a graduate of this research- extensive institution.

That’s another reason why we love her. Go Cyclones!

In 1984, Dr. Ricklefs opened All Pets Animal Hospital in Ames, Iowa. She has more than 40 years of experience and is a surgeon to boot! We are fortunate to have this facility in our hometown.

If you love your vet, post a comment about her as I have done with mine. Dr. Ricklefs knows how to treat Maine Coons, and for that, we are so grateful. She has given me instructions today on when to spay our beloved Siggy and Freya.

You have to love your vet or find a new one because the doctor is essential in insuring your kittens’ and cats’ health.

Thank you, Dr. Ricklefs!