Islam and cats

Cat outside Gazi Husrev-Bey Mosque (6086909198)

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Interior of a school in Cairo (detail)

File:Muslim playing with kitten and praying beads in Al Azhar mosque in Cairo.webm Islam and Cats

Islam holds a special place for cats, considering them ritually clean and admiring them for their cleanliness and independence. This positive attitude towards cats is rooted in Islamic tradition and is reflected in the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad, who is reported to have had a great affection for these animals. Cats are mentioned in various Hadith (sayings of the Prophet Muhammad) which highlight the Prophet's fondness for cats and his encouragement of treating them with kindness and respect.

Islamic Teachings and Cats

In Islam, cats are admired for their cleanliness, a trait that is highly valued in the religion. Muslims are allowed to keep cats as pets and are encouraged to treat them well. The Prophet Muhammad is said to have had a cat named Muezza. One well-known story recounts how the Prophet cut off the sleeve of his robe rather than disturb Muezza who was sleeping on it. This story emphasizes the importance of compassion and love for animals in Islam.

Cats are one of the few animals that are allowed to enter homes and mosques. They are considered clean enough that they may drink from the same water as humans without the water becoming impure. This leniency does not extend to all animals, highlighting the special status cats hold within Islamic law and culture.

Cats in Islamic Law

Islamic law, or Sharia, includes specific guidelines on how to treat animals, including cats. Muslims are prohibited from causing unnecessary harm to animals and are encouraged to provide for them if they are under a person's care. This includes feeding and giving water to pets and not confining them in a manner that causes them distress.

The Prophet Muhammad's teachings also include advice on the treatment of animals. He taught that kindness to animals is a form of charity (sadaqah) and that mistreating an animal is a sin. These teachings have influenced Islamic law and ethics regarding animals, promoting a culture of respect and kindness towards them, including cats.

Cultural Impact

The reverence for cats in Islam has influenced cultural attitudes towards these animals in Muslim-majority countries. Cats are commonly found in homes, and it is not unusual to see them in public spaces, including mosques. The cultural significance of cats is evident in Islamic art and literature, where they are often depicted in a positive light.

Conclusion

Cats hold a unique place in Islam, being both admired for their cleanliness and loved for their independence. The teachings of the Prophet Muhammad emphasize kindness and respect towards cats, reflecting the broader Islamic values of compassion towards all living beings. This special status of cats in Islam has had a lasting impact on Islamic law and culture, making them a beloved part of many Muslim communities around the world.