In 2023, I returned to Madinah. I spent hours feeding and caring for stray cats and that’s when I found another motherless kitten. I instantly fell in love with it. This tiny, vulnerable life reignited my determination to make a difference. I tried everything to save it, reaching out to countless people for help, but no one could assist me. Heartbroken, I had to leave the kitten behind near Gate 338 of Masjid Al Nabawi.

Back in the Netherlands, I couldn’t stop crying. I cried for months and searched for ways to find that kitten. I contacted two well-known influencers in Saudi Arabia who kindly returned to Gate 338 to search for the kitten. I sent a detailed map of the kittens last known location and shared pictures of his unique fur markings. One influencer shared video footage of their search and the other conducted a live session with me. Despite their generous efforts, the kitten was never found.

Though I was deeply grateful, the sadness of losing that kitten never left me. I prayed daily, asking God to reunite me with the kitten one day. Even now, I look at the his pictures, memorizing the distinct fur pattern in hopes of recognizing the grown up version of this kitten, if I ever see him again in Madinah.

During this time, I discovered countless online stories from people who had witnessed the struggles of stray cats in Makkah and Madinah. These stories mirrored my own pain and inspired me to take action.

This is how Madinah Cats was born, a foundation dedicated to raising awareness about the suffering of stray cats who have no voice. But awareness wasn’t enough. These cats needed immediate care, safe spaces and long-term solutions.

With this realization, I built a dedicated team in Saudi Arabia, with Hajar as our incredible rescuer in Madinah. In the Netherlands, I recruited two wonderful board members, Wim and Loes, to strengthen the foundation. Our rescue efforts have since expanded to other cities. Sayem, our rescuer in Riyadh, has been instrumental in saving lives, while our foster caregivers, Khadijah in Riyadh and Mary in Jeddah, nurture rescued cats back to health. Michelle in Jeddah plays a crucial role in coordinating efforts to send these cats abroad, where they can find loving homes.

I am deeply grateful to the countless pilgrims who have supported our mission by rescuing cats and taking them to veterinary clinics. Their compassion and generosity have been invaluable and I proudly consider them part of the Madinah Cats team.

I am equally thankful for the unconditional support from our followers on social media. Your donations and encouragement make all this possible. You too, are a vital part of the Madinah Cats family.

Together, we work tirelessly to improve the lives of stray cats. Many of these animals are sick, injured or unneutered, left to fend for themselves in heartbreaking conditions. Witnessing their suffering strengthens our resolve to provide them with safe, loving environments and a better future.

Our ultimate dream is to establish shelters in both Makkah and Madinah, offering these cats a sanctuary where they can heal and thrive. We also aim to collaborate with veterinarians to implement TNR (Trap-Neuter-Return) programs, a humane way to control the stray cat population and improve their overall quality of life.

Together, we can make a difference. Let’s unite to give these cats the compassion and care they so desperately need. Your support is invaluable to our mission. Thank you for standing with Madinah Cats and helping us create a brighter future for these beautiful souls.