Cats hold a special place in Islam and are loved and revered by Muslims. There are many hadiths (sayings of Prophet Muhammad) that show cats are appreciated and even loved in Islam. The Prophet himself had a favorite cat named Muezza that he would often pet and play with. Here are some key points on the Islamic perspective on cats:
Cats are Considered Clean
In Islam, cats are considered ritually clean animals. This means they can freely enter mosques and Muslim homes without negatively impacting the cleanliness or purity of the space. Unlike dogs which are seen as ritually impure in Islam, cats do not need to be kept outside or washed frequently. Their cleanliness makes them welcome indoor companions.
Prophet Muhammad’s Love for Cats
There are several hadiths that demonstrate Prophet Muhammad’s fondness for cats:
- Once while Muhammad was praying, his cat Muezza slept on the sleeve of his prayer robe. Rather than disturb the cat, Muhammad gently cut the sleeve off and let Muezza sleep undisturbed.
- Muhammad would often play with his cats by placing his prayer mat on the floor and letting the cats chase the tassels.
- It is said that one day Muhammad was headed to the mosque when he heard Muezza meowing. He turned back home just to feed his cat before going to prayers.
These stories show how the Prophet prioritized caring for and respecting cats, setting an example for Muslims.
Hurting Cats is Forbidden
There are clear instructions against harming cats in Islam. The Prophet said:
“A woman was tortured and was put in Hell because of a cat which she had kept locked till it died of hunger.”
He warned about the punishment for cruelty towards cats, making it forbidden in Islam.
Cats Can Enter Mosques
Unlike dogs which are seen as impure, cats are allowed to freely enter mosques. There are many stories of the Prophet’s favorite cat Muezza resting and sitting inside the mosque during prayers. Their cleanliness makes cats welcome inside sacred spaces.
Saving a Cat Earns Good Deeds
The Prophet said taking care of cats is rewarded by Allah. One story tells of a kind woman who saved a thirsty cat by giving it water. The Prophet said this act alone guaranteed her entrance to Paradise.
Cats Should Not Be Sold for Money
Selling cats for money is considered ethically wrong in Islam. The Prophet said:
“The seller of the cat who unjustly takes its price is a loser on the Day of Resurrection.”
Muslims are encouraged to adopt and care for cats without profiting off of them.
Breeding Cats is Encouraged
There are hadiths that mention the Prophet approving of breeding cats:
“It is not a sin to keep a dog not meant for hunting, nor a cat not meant for hunting mice.”
This indicates breeding cats for companionship, pest control, and other purposes is permitted and even encouraged in Islam.
Cats Should Not Be Neglected
While cats are low maintenance pets, they still require care and attention. The Prophet warned against neglecting cats, such as locking them up without food. Respecting cats means providing food, water, shelter, vet care, and affection.
Black Cats are Not Bad Omens
Some societies view black cats as bad omens but Islam does not share this perspective. Cats of all colors are appreciated. There are no hadiths or Islamic teachings that discourage adopting black cats.
Cats Can Be Taken on Journeys
Travelling with cats is permitted in Islam. One story tells of the Prophet allowing a man to take his cat on a long journey by caravan. As long as their needs are met, cats can accompany their owners on trips.
Playing with Cats is Encouraged
The Prophet demonstrated the joy of playing with cats and enjoying their antics. Lighthearted playtime and bonding with cats is in line with Islamic teachings, as long as no harm comes to the cat.
Cats Should Not Be Killed
There are stern warnings against killing cats in Islam. One story tells of a woman thrown into hell for starving her cat to death. Deliberately harming or killing cats is considered a grave sin.
Adopting Stray Cats is Rewarding
Taking in homeless and abandoned cats is seen as an act of great virtue in Islam. The Prophet encouraged feeding and adopting strays, promising spiritual rewards for helping cats in need.
Cats Should Be Let Outside at Times
While indoor cats live longer, they still require outdoor time to satisfy their instincts. Islam teaches that locking cats inside constantly without freedom is cruel. Owners should provide outdoor access.
Cats Should Not Be Sold as Pets
Trading cats for money is forbidden, as the Prophet made clear. Adopting the needy cats for free is virtuous, but profiteering off cats goes against Islamic principles.
Conclusion
Islam has great reverence and love for cats. Key Islamic teachings include treating cats humanely, allowing them in mosques, playing with them, adopting strays, and avoiding any cruelty towards them. Prophet Muhammad set a high standard in his loving care for cats like his favorite Muezza. Following the Prophet’s example, cats clearly have a very special place in Islam.