The Relationship Between Muslim and Cats: Mercy in Islam

The relationship between Muslim and cats is a testament to Islam’s emphasis on mercy, kindness, and respect for all living beings. Cats hold a special place in Islamic tradition, not only as pure and permissible companions but as animals that were cherished by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

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Why Cats Are Loved in Islamic Tradition

The close connection between Muslim and cats is deeply rooted in Islamic teachings and prophetic traditions. Cats are highly regarded in Islam, not merely as pets, but as creatures of dignity, cleanliness, and mercy.

This reverence stems from the Prophet Muhammad’s (peace be upon him) exemplary treatment of animals and his specific fondness for cats.

Prophetic Mercy Toward Cats

One of the most well-known Hadiths that illustrate the relationship between Muslim and cats is the narration about the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his beloved cat, Muezza.

According to authentic reports, the Prophet once cut off a portion of his garment rather than disturb Muezza, who had fallen asleep on his sleeve. This simple yet powerful act exemplifies the prophetic model of compassion toward all creatures.

The Prophet (peace be upon him) is reported to have said:

“A woman was punished in Hell because of a cat which she had confined until it died. She did not give it to eat or drink when it was confined, nor did she free it so that it might eat the insects of the earth.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 3318; Sahih Muslim, 2242)

This Hadith clearly emphasizes that kindness to animals is not optional but a moral duty in Islam. Additionally, there is a hadith about a man who will enter heaven because he gave water to a thirsty dog.

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Cats in the Light of Shariah and Cleanliness

Another reason for the favorable relationship between Muslim and cats lies in Islamic jurisprudence regarding purity. Cats are considered tahir (pure) animals in Shariah. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

“They (cats) are not impure; they intermingle with you.” (Sunan Abu Dawood, 75; Sahih al-Tirmidhi, 92)

Because of this, it is permissible for cats to roam freely in Muslim homes and even mosques. Their presence does not invalidate prayer nor does their contact render one impure, which further underscores their acceptance in daily Islamic life.

Stories of the Prophet Muhammad and Cats

One of the most famous stories in Islamic tradition is about the Prophet Muhammad’s (peace be upon him) cat, Muezza. According to traditional reports, the Prophet once performed ablution (wudu) using a container of water.

As he prepared for prayer, he noticed Muezza sleeping on the sleeve of his robe. Rather than disturbing the cat, he gently cut off the portion of his sleeve on which Muezza lay, allowing her to rest undisturbed.

This simple yet profound act exemplifies the Prophet’s kindness and consideration for animals. It serves as a powerful model of behavior for the relationship between Muslim and cats, emphasizing gentleness, respect, and empathy.

Islamic Rulings on Keeping Cats as Pets

Cats are among the few animals specifically mentioned in Islamic jurisprudence with favorable rulings due to their purity and historical association with the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

Cats Are Considered Pure (Tahir) in Islam

One of the foundational principles in the Islamic rulings concerning cats is their status as tahir, or ritually pure. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) stated:

“They (cats) are not impure. They intermingle with you.” (Sunan Abu Dawood, 75; Al-Tirmidhi, 92)

This Hadith affirms that cats are not considered najis (impure) in Islam. Their presence in homes, mosques, and even around food or prayer spaces does not compromise Islamic purity laws.

As a result, Muslims are permitted to interact with cats without concerns about invalidating wudu (ablution) or prayer.

Permissibility of Keeping Cats at Home

Scholars across all major Islamic schools of thought agree that keeping cats as pets is permissible. In fact, many early Muslims, including the Prophet’s companions, were known to keep and care for cats.

The renowned companion Abu Huraira, whose name literally means “Father of the Kitten,” was given this nickname by the Prophet due to his affection for cats.

In Islamic law (fiqh), the permissibility of owning cats is conditioned by fulfilling the animal’s basic needs. This includes:

Providing sufficient food and water
Offering appropriate shelter and safety
Avoiding any form of abuse, neglect, or confinement without cause

Failure to meet these responsibilities is considered a sin in Islam. As the Prophet (peace be upon him) warned in an authentic Hadith:

“A woman was tormented because of a cat which she had confined until it died. She neither fed it nor let it free to eat the insects of the earth. So she was punished in Hell because of it.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, 3318; Sahih Muslim, 2242)

This Hadith underlines the seriousness of animal welfare in Islam and reflects the ethical depth of the Muslim and cats relationship.

Misconceptions About Cats in Religion

Here are some of the Misconceptions about cats in Islam:

Misconception 1: Cats Are Impure Animals

One of the most widespread misconceptions is that cats are najis (impure) and should not be allowed in the home or near prayer areas. However, Islamic teachings clearly refute this claim. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

“They (cats) are not impure; they intermingle with you.” (Sunan Abu Dawood, 75; Al-Tirmidhi, 92)

This Hadith establishes that cats are ritually pure (tahir) and that their presence does not invalidate prayer or affect a Muslim’s state of cleanliness. Their hair, touch, or movement around the home does not necessitate purification or wudu renewal.

Misconception 2: Islam Forbids Keeping Cats as Pets

Some believe that keeping cats as pets is discouraged in Islam, but this is incorrect. On the contrary, Islam not only permits but encourages the kind treatment and care of animals, including cats.

Many early Muslims, including the Prophet’s companions, kept cats and treated them with gentleness. The famous companion Abu Huraira—whose name means “Father of the Kitten”—was beloved by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and is a lasting symbol of the close relationship between Muslim and cats.

Misconception 3: Cats Are Harmful to Spiritual Practice

Another myth suggests that cats may bring negative spiritual energy or disrupt religious activities. However, Islamic teachings indicate the opposite. Islam and Cats are seen as clean creatures that can live harmoniously within Muslim homes.

Their presence does not hinder acts of worship, and they were even allowed in the Prophet’s Mosque. This acceptance further proves their compatibility with a spiritually observant lifestyle.

Moreover, Islamic law does not prohibit cats from entering areas where prayer is performed. If a cat walks in front of someone praying or sits beside them, it does not invalidate the prayer. This practical accommodation reflects Islam’s mercy and balance in daily life.

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FAQs

Can Muslims keep cats as pets?

Yes, keeping cats is permissible in Islam as long as they are cared for properly.

Do cats affect a Muslim’s prayer or wudu?

No, contact with cats does not nullify wudu or prayer.

Is it haram to mistreat a cat in Islam?

Yes, Islam strictly forbids cruelty toward any animal, including cats.

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