For over a decade, Jonathan Sibol, a Filipino resident in Abu Dhabi, has been on a mission to care for the welfare of stray cats in the city. Known as a passionate animal advocate, his efforts go beyond feeding these animals. Jonathan has become a champion of humane initiatives like the Trap-Neuter-Release (TNR) project, which aims to control the stray cat population in an ethical and sustainable way.
Jonathan began his journey as a rescuer in 2014, when he noticed a group of stray cats near a trash bin outside his villa. He had noticed a group of stray cats near a trash bin by his villa and decided to step in. “I bought cat food and started feeding them daily,” Jonathan shares. However, he quickly realized that this wasn’t enough to make a lasting difference. “Some people told me that feeding alone isn’t sufficient; I also needed to neuter or spay them,” he explains.
Learning that female cats as young as four to five months could have up to three litters a year motivated him to take action. This realization led Jonathan to educate himself about rescuing cats and implementing sustainable solutions, and he has remained dedicated to this cause ever since.
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Advocating for Strays
Through his advocacy, Jonathan has collaborated with licensed rescue groups like Microchipped.ae and Animal Welfare Abu Dhabi (AWAD). Together, they have worked tirelessly to trap, neuter, and spay hundreds of stray cats in the city. He also helps during Adoption Days, providing guidance to prospective pet owners, and has established food stations at various locations to ensure that stray animals receive consistent meals in a clean and organized manner.
Despite the support he receives from the groups he works with, Jonathan acknowledges the persistent challenges of rescuing strays. “Funding and resources are always a challenge,” he shares. However, his passion and determination have driven him to continue, even in the face of these obstacles, making a tangible impact on the lives of countless stray cats.
Tackling the Heat and Changing Perspectives
Summers in the UAE can be brutal, and Jonathan knows how dangerous extreme heat is for stray animals. To combat this, he encourages residents to leave bowls of water outside their homes and seeks support from establishments that allow stray cats to take shelter in their premises. These small acts can make a big difference, especially during the toughest months.
Another challenge Jonathan faces is changing public perception. “Many see stray cats as pests that bring sickness or bad luck, which is not true,” he explains. Educating people about the importance of humane treatment for strays has become a key part of his mission. Through awareness campaigns and community engagement, he strives to shift mindsets and foster compassion for animals.
Catfood Stand Project for Stray Cats
Jonathan Sibol has taken his advocacy for stray animals a step further with his Catfood Stand Project. He has built and distributed 30 catfood stands to his work community, local schools, and fellow rescuers.
These stands ensure that stray cats have consistent access to food, reflecting Jonathan’s unwavering commitment to animal welfare and his mission to make a difference, one act of kindness at a time.
A Call for Compassion
Jonathan hopes his efforts will inspire others to take action, whether by supporting TNR initiatives, volunteering, or simply showing kindness to animals in need. He shares a message to everyone. “Kindness is free, and it can make a huge difference, For pet owners, please be responsible and never abandon your pets. Remember, pets are members of our family. Let’s all be a voice for the voiceless and create a more compassionate community.”
Jonathan’s story teaches us how one person’s dedication can lead to meaningful change. His work has not only improved the lives of Abu Dhabi’s stray cats but also inspired others to contribute to creating a more compassionate community.
His mission serves as a powerful reminder that small acts of care and responsibility can lead to a better, kinder world for all. His legacy reinforces the importance of lending a voice to the voiceless and making a difference, one life at a time.
Follow Jonathan online:
- Facebook – @aithan.sibol
- Instagram – @aithansibol
- Tiktok – @jonathansibol
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