Islam teaches that people should be kind to animals, and having a cat as a pet follows this teaching as long as the cat is taken care of and treated nicely. The cat must be cared for properly, given food and shelter, and not allowed to disturb or harm others.
As long as these conditions are met, keeping a cat as a pet in the house is permissible in Islam.
Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W) and His Love for Cats
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) treated cats with great love and gentleness. His kind behavior towards these animals is shown through many stories.
One very famous story tells of when the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was taking a nap tells of when the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was taking a nap and had his loose outer robe (garment) on. When he woke up, he saw a cat sleeping peacefully on a portion of his robe. Rather than disturbing the sleeping cat, he cut off that portion of his robe and let the cat continue resting peacefully. This showed his care and respect, even for a small creature.
There are other examples of how Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W) welcomed cats. It was common for cats to be found in mosques and homes during his time. The Prophet allowed this because he saw cats as sources of blessings and good fortune for families.
Another story says when a cat was very thirsty, Hazrat Muhammad (S.A.W) gave it water to drink. He was happy to show mercy to the cat, as he taught being kind to all animals can lead to great rewards.
Muhammad (S.A.W) liked cats because he cared about all of Allah’s creatures. He thought having cats around was helpful because they kept pests like mice away from homes. His kindness towards cats showed Muslims how important it is to be loving and gentle towards these friendly pets.
If you want to know if dogs are halal as Pet read check this link below:
Why Cats Make Ideal Pets for Muslim Households
Muslim families often look for a pet that fits well with their faith and way of life. Cats can make wonderful halal animal companions for Muslim households. They are easy to care for, stay clean, and do not require much space or effort.
Here are some reasons why you should have a cat as a pet in the house:
- According to Islamic teachings, cats are regarded as clean creatures whose saliva is not considered impure. This makes them suitable pets for Muslim homes where cleanliness is very important.
- Cats are famous for being independent and low-maintenance pets. They do not need to be walked or bathed often. Muslim families with busy schedules will find cats to be fairly hands-off companions.
- These furry friends have a natural ability to hunt and catch rodents like mice and rats. Having a cat can help keep the house free from these pests in an easy way.
- Caring for a pet like a cat teaches values like responsibility, nurturing, and kindness – all esteemed qualities in Islam, especially for raising children.
- For elderly Muslims living alone, a cat’s company can provide a sense of love, comfort, and companionship to ease loneliness.
Cats are great pets for Muslim families because they are clean, don’t need much looking after, and they bring happiness. Having a cat fits well with Islamic values and how families live at home. So, cats make fantastic animal friends for Muslims to have.
Common Misconceptions about Cats in Islam
In Islamic culture, cats hold a special place, often revered for their companionship and cleanliness. However, several misconceptions surround the treatment and perception of cats within the faith.
Let’s clear these misunderstandings from our minds:
1. Dead cats must be removed from Muslim homes immediately
In Islam, we’re taught to be kind to all living beings, including cats. When a cat passes away, it’s important to handle it gently and offer prayers for its forgiveness. We don’t rush to remove the cat right away. This shows our compassion towards animals, even after they’re gone.
2. Cats are only valued for catching mice/rodents:
Beyond their role in pest control, Islam acknowledges cats as beloved creations of Allah, deserving of care and affection as companions. Their companionship and loyalty are recognized as valuable traits, and many stories from Islamic tradition highlight the special bond between humans and cats.
3. A meowing cat predicts death in the house:
This superstition has no basis in Islam, that cats can predict death or bring bad luck. Islam teaches us to trust in Allah rather than believing in superstitions. Cats meow for different reasons, like wanting attention or expressing how they feel, but they don’t have magical powers to foresee the future.
4. Cats are sources of bad luck or evil spirits in Islam:
Islam holds a positive view of cats, considering them noble creatures to be respected and cared for. Their presence in homes is believed to bring blessings, and stories in Islamic tradition often depict cats as symbols of grace and protection.
5. Black cats bring misfortune in Islam:
In Islam, all cats are seen as special and important, no matter their color. Saying that black cats bring bad luck is just something people believe, not something Islam teaches. In Islam, every living thing is made by Allah (SWT) and should be treated with kindness and respect, no matter how it looks.
6. Cats should remain outside and not indoors in Islam:
Contrary to this belief, Islam imposes no such restriction on keeping cats indoors, allowing them to live comfortably within human homes. Providing shelter and care for cats is encouraged, and many Muslims consider their homes blessed by the presence of these beloved animals.
7. Male cats are favored over females in Islam:
Both male and female cats are valued equally for their companionship and unique qualities. The notion of favoring one gender over the other goes against Islamic principles of justice and fairness.
8. Cats must undergo ritual bathing in Islam:
There is no obligation in Islam to ritually bathe cats, dispelling the myth of such a requirement. While cleanliness is highlighted in Islamic practice, there are no specific rituals mandated for bathing cats. Keeping them clean and groomed is encouraged for their well-being, but it is not a religious obligation.
Cats are really important in Islamic culture. But some people have wrong ideas about how they should be treated in Islam. It’s important to clear up these misunderstandings. If we understand and respect what Islam teaches about cats, we can show them kindness and take good care of them.
Punishment if a Cat Dies as a Pet According to Islam
In Islam, there are no fixed punishments if a pet cat dies. However, Islamic teachings say we must be kind and caring towards all creatures, including animals. If a Muslim does not properly look after their pet cat by not giving it enough food, water, shelter or taking it to the vet when sick, and the cat dies because of this neglect, then it is considered a sin.
The Prophet Muhammad once scolded a woman whose cat died of starvation and lack of care because she did not feed or shelter it properly. He said this creature was made by Allah and she had a duty to look after it with love and kindness. But her cruelty made the Prophet very displeased with her.
He warned that on the Day of Judgment, she would have to answer for her lack of mercy towards the helpless cat. The Prophet taught that pets like cats must be cared for and nurtured with love, not neglected. Allowing an animal to suffer or die due to negligence angers Allah. While sometimes pets may die despite our best efforts, Islam says we must always treat animals with compassion.
Why Selling Cats is Considered Haram (forbidden) in Islam
In Islam, it is not allowed to sell cats in order to make money. This is because cats are living creatures made by Allah, not things that should be bought and sold like products.
The Prophet Muhammad taught that animals do not actually belong to us. We are simply caretakers who must look after them. Selling cats-like merchandise goes against being caring and kind towards Allah’s creations.
There is also a worry that if cats are sold, they could end up with owners who do not treat them well. Islam says we must make sure animals have proper food, water, and shelter and are treated nicely.
However, it is okay in Islam to give away a cat for free to a good home that will take care of it properly. But breeding cats or selling them just to make money is disrespectful to these creatures Allah made.
The right way is to care for cats with love and mercy, not sell them to make a business. This protects the dignity Allah gave to all living beings.
FAQs About Cats
Is eating cats haram in Islam?
Consuming cats is forbidden (haram) in Islam. This is because cats are considered clean animals and are often kept as pets. Eating cats goes against the teachings of kindness and compassion towards animals that Islam promotes.
Are black cats haram to keep it in the house?
No, black cats are not haram to keep in the house in Islam. In Islam, all cats are considered noble creatures and can be kept as pets regardless of their color. There is no specific prohibition against keeping black cats in the house.
Why are dogs haram in a household but not cats?
dogs are seen as impure animals, but they can be kept for specific purposes like guarding or hunting. Cats, however, are considered clean animals and can be kept as pets in households without specific restrictions.
Is it recommended to show kindness to cats in Islam?
Yes, Islam encourages showing kindness to cats as Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) demonstrated compassion towards them, teaching us to treat all creatures with care and respect.
Are there any specific rituals in Islam regarding cats?
No, Islam does not prescribe specific rituals for cats. However, Muslims are encouraged to care for their cats with love, providing them with food, shelter, and necessary medical attention.
Summary:
Cats are totally okay to have as pets in Islam. They’re seen as clean and nice animals, and Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was really kind to them. So, it’s fine to have a cat if you can take good care of it.
Just remember to keep up with your prayers and other important stuff in Islam, and keep your house clean, especially where the cat does its business.
We hope this clears up any questions you have about having a cat in Islam. Now, if you want, you can go ahead and get a cat as a pet, knowing it’s all good in Islam.
May Allah always be merciful and keep his blessing on us all the time.
