Meet Our Office Cats: Jiabao, Gentle Soul, Fierce Spirit

Social Impact Aug 08, 2025

At Avia, our Office Cat program wasn’t just about rescuing animals—it was about finding those who needed us most. And sometimes, those very animals find us first.

This is the story of Jiabao.

A Cat with No Teeth, but an Overflowing Heart

When we met Jiabao for the first time, he didn’t hesitate. While the other rescue cats remained cautious and quiet, he ran straight toward us, wrapped himself around a team member’s leg, and began climbing up like a tiny tree climber. Just like a dog might do.

It was his way of saying, “Pick me.”

And we did.

Jiabao was saved through animal rescue from a difficult environment in Beijing. He had been living as a stray, and by the time he was found, he was in critical condition—malnourished, dehydrated, and suffering from severe oral inflammation. The infection was so advanced he could no longer eat. His only chance of survival? A full-mouth dental extraction.

He has no teeth. Not a single one.

But that never stopped him.

The Bravest Soul in the Room

Despite everything he’s been through, Jiabao is known in our office for his confidence and charm. He’s soft and small, but carries himself with surprising poise—walking with a little bounce in his step and a spark in his eye.

He’s the first to approach new visitors. The first to meow when he hears someone open the fridge. And the first to crawl into someone’s lap when he senses they’re having a rough day.

He may not have teeth, but he has something better: a deep emotional intelligence and an uncanny sense of timing. Jiabao doesn’t just ask for affection—he gives it.

A Tiny Body, an Enormous Will to Live

Jiabao’s health journey hasn’t been easy. Even after coming to Avia, he’s battled life-threatening infections, each time teetering on the edge. More than once, we thought we might lose him.

But Jiabao never gave up. He fought through every round of treatment with quiet determination—and always bounced back. No complaints. No fear. Just that same gentle presence, always returning to curl up in someone’s lap as if to say, “I’m still here.”

Jiabao Is the Reminder We All Needed

Jiabao may not be the strongest, the fluffiest, or the loudest cat. But he’s the one who chose us. The one who teaches us that vulnerability isn’t weakness—it’s connection.

He reminds us that even when you’ve lost your voice, your teeth, or your strength—you can still choose love. You can still show up.

Today, he shares Avia’s office cat room with his best friend, Tangtang. Together, they’ve turned a simple corner of our workspace into a sanctuary of softness, calm, and care.

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