Last Updated on 4 February 2026 by Vanessa
There’s something special about the Ryde Veterinary Clinic in New South Wales, Australia. The clinic has an adorable cross-eyed feline mascot who steals heart on sight. His name is Alf, and he’s now officially a part of the staff.
Meet Alf, the endearing feline mascot of Ryde Vet Clinic
Alf—short for Alfaxan, a veterinary anesthetic drug—has become a beloved icon at the Ryde Veterinary Clinic in New South Wales, Australia.
Each morning, Alf makes his way to the front desk and settles in to welcome the day’s furry patients and their humans. As soon as the doors open, he becomes the first friendly face people see. His calm, cheerful presence sets the tone and makes even nervous vet visits feel a little easier.
Alf’s first days at the vet clinic
Alf has been at the Ryde Veterinary Clinic since October, 2014. The staff took him in after they found him as a helpless two-week-old kitten, abandoned in a box on the clinic’s doorstep along with his two siblings.
The team didn’t hesitate. They brought the tiny kittens inside and cared for them around the clock.
Even though Alf was merely two weeks old back then, he was already a fighter. He grew stronger every day, bounced back quickly, and kept everyone entertained with his playful energy and obvious love for life.
Sadly, his siblings didn’t survive—but Alf held on.
Related: Meet King, the feline monarch of Brighton Beach in Melbourne, Australia.
Alf’s adoption
After several weeks, Alf had already won over the entire staff.
When adoption time rolled around and no one stepped forward, the team realized something important: none of them wanted to say goodbye.
So they didn’t.
The clinic officially adopted Alf, giving him a permanent home and a very unofficial job title. He became the clinic’s feline mascot, morale booster, and full-time companion to both staff and patients.
Since then, Alf has remained a constant presence at the clinic. He charms everyone he meets, provides endless entertainment, and offers comfort simply by being there—often curled up nearby, purring softly.
Related: Meet Cecil, the cat who makes grocery shopping at Safeway a delightful experience.
Adorable antics
Alf takes his role seriously… most of the time.
He enjoys leaving tiny paw prints on staff cars and has a well-known habit of helping himself to lunches left unattended. Whether he considers that stealing or “sharing” remains unclear.
While he occasionally mans the reception desk like a proper customer service representative, his impressive appetite often distracts him from his duties.
No one seems to mind, though.
Visit Alf at Ryde Veterinary Clinic
Alf’s story highlights the powerful bond that can form between people and animals. More than that, he reflects the heart of the Ryde Veterinary Clinic and its deep commitment to caring for every creature that comes through its doors.
If you live in—or are visiting—New South Wales, consider stopping by the Ryde Veterinary Clinic. When you walk in, keep an eye out for Alf. Chances are, he’ll make you smile.
Related: Local shop cat becomes an Instagram sensation! Meet Angel, from the Sweet Pea gift shop in Dingle
General information
Address
Ryde Veterinary Clinic, 130 Quarry Rd, Ryde NSW 2112, New South Wales, Australia.
If you’re coming by car, there’s parking available out the front on the street.
Several bus routes also stop nearby along Quarry Road, including 518 and 544. The West Ryde train station is about a 15-minute walk from the clinic.
Opening times
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- Monday – Friday: 07:30 am – 07:00 pm
- Saturday 09:00 am – 05:00 pm
- Sunday Closed
P.S. Have you met Andre the giant cat from the High Paws Pet Supply Store in Fairplay?
