Cats hold a special place in the hearts of many — and in Islam, they are particularly cherished. Unlike common misconceptions that religion might discourage pet ownership, Islam promotes kindness, compassion, and respect for animals, and cats are one of the most revered creatures in Islamic tradition.
So, what makes cats so special in Islam?
1. A Beloved Animal of the Prophet ﷺ
One of the most well-known stories in Islamic tradition involves Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and his affection for cats. According to narrations, the Prophet had a cat named Muezza (or Mu‘izza). One day, Muezza was sleeping on the Prophet’s robe. Rather than disturb the cat when he needed the garment, the Prophet gently cut the sleeve to avoid waking her. This act reflects the tenderness and mercy the Prophet showed to animals.
2. Cats Are Considered Clean (Taharah)
In Islamic jurisprudence, cats are regarded as ritually clean animals. Their presence in homes and mosques is not only allowed but accepted as normal. The Prophet ﷺ said:
“They (cats) are not impure. They are among those who go around among you.”
— [Hadith, Sunan Abu Dawood]
This means that if a cat drinks from your water or eats your food, it does not make it impure. Cats are allowed to roam freely in Muslim households, and some mosques even have resident cats to this day.
3. The Reward for Kindness to Animals
In Islam, showing compassion to animals is a sign of piety. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ told his companions stories of people being rewarded or punished by Allah for how they treated animals.
One such hadith tells of a woman who was punished for imprisoning a cat without food or water. In contrast, another story praises a man who was forgiven by Allah for giving water to a thirsty dog.
This clearly demonstrates that caring for animals is a serious moral responsibility in Islam — and cruelty is a major sin.
4. Keeping Cats as Pets: What Islam Says
While Islam allows keeping cats as pets, it encourages responsibility:
Ensure they are well-fed and cared for.
Do not harm or neglect them.
Do not sell them for profit (according to many scholars).
Respect their natural behaviors.
Cats are not to be caged or confined unnecessarily. Islamic teachings support the idea of freedom and dignity for all creatures.
5. Cats in Muslim History and Culture
Historically, many Islamic scholars and figures were known to be fond of cats. In fact, early Islamic cities often had cat-friendly cultures, with food and water left out for stray cats. The Ottomans, in particular, were known for their “cat charities,” which provided shelter and care for neighborhood cats.
Even in modern times, you’ll find cats lounging around old mosques in Istanbul, Cairo, and other historic Muslim cities — sometimes even sleeping next to worshippers during prayer.
Final Thoughts: A Reflection of Mercy
The way Islam treats cats reflects a broader theme in Islamic teachings: mercy, compassion, and harmony with creation. Whether you’re a practicing Muslim or someone curious about the faith, Islam’s teachings on animals — especially cats — offer a gentle reminder that how we treat the weakest among us says a lot about our character.
So next time you see a cat, remember: in Islam, they’re not just pets — they’re respected companions and a reflection of divine mercy.
