Reviewed by: Shakira Ahmed
Fact Checked by: Shahina Islam
Is It Haram To Have A Cat? If you want to know whether is it haram to have a cat in Islam then here you will clear all your doubts and get detailed knowledge so read this full article to know more.
In the Islamic faith, many Muslims have long debated the issue of whether or not, is it haram to have a cat. In order to properly answer this question, it is important to consider the relevant hadith (sayings) from Prophet Muhammad, as well as the historical context in which these sayings took place.
The Qur’an states that:
“Whoever is kind to the creatures of God is kind to himself”
(Surah Al-An’am)
This highlights the importance of respecting and treating cats in a humane way.
Is It Haram To Have A Cat In Islam?
According to this hadith, many scholars believe that having a cat as a pet is permissible in Islam, as long as the cat is treated with kindness and respect. It is considered a sign of mercy to feed a cat or provide it shelter.
Many cats are also used for practical purposes such as rodent control, which is seen as an additional benefit from having them around. However, some hardline Muslims argue that keeping cats as pets is haram, as their presence brings impurity into the house.
This argument is based on several hadith involving cat urine (which was seen as an impure substance) and cat fur (which was thought to attract negative energy).
Apart from the cat’s purifying effect, Islam also places emphasis on how humans should treat cats. In particular, it is haram (forbidden) to mistreat cats or cause them harm in any way. This includes physical abuse, abandonment, and neglect.
In addition, cat owners should be aware that cats have certain needs that must be met in order for them to lead healthy lives. These include proper nutrition, veterinary care, grooming, socialization, and mental stimulation.
Is Selling Or Buying Cat Haram?
Is buying Cat Haram, In addition to the important question of whether is it haram to have a cat, there is also the related issue of whether or not it is haram to sell or buy cats.
Generally speaking, trading animals for profit is prohibited in Islam due to the risk of mistreatment and animal abuse (especially if done in large numbers). This is why cat ownership and cat trading are considered separately in Islamic law.
Regarding cat trading, some scholars argue that it is permissible if done so with the intention of providing a loving home to the cat and not for financial gain or exploitation.
It is important to note though that buying a cat from an irresponsible breeder may lead to animal abuse and should thus be avoided.
What Hadith Declares Cat As Haram?
The most commonly cited hadith relating to cats is the one mentioned earlier by Sunan Abu Dawud. This hadith states:
“Angels do not enter a house wherein there is a dog or a picture of a living creature”
(Sunan Abu Dawud, Book 25: 3871).
This has been interpreted by some scholars to indicate that cats, as living creatures, should be kept out of the home in order to maintain purity.
However, other interpretations suggest that this hadith is a warning against idolatry and that cat ownership is permissible if done responsibly.
However, it is important to note that this hadith was shared during an era when cats were seen as predators of crops and potentially dangerous to human health.
As such, some scholars argue that this prohibition should be seen in its historical context and may not necessarily apply today due to modern advances in animal husbandry and pest control (such as neutering).
In addition, there are several other hadiths that mention cats but do not directly declare cat ownership as haram. For example, the hadith collected by Imam Malik ibn Anas states:
“It is disliked for one who has a cat to let it roam about freely”
(Collected Works of Imam Malik Ibn Anas)
This could either be taken as a warning against cat neglect or simply an indication that cats should not be allowed to roam freely, as this is not a humane practice.
As narrated by Abdullah bin Umar: Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) said:
“A woman was tortured and was put in Hell because of a cat which she had kept locked till it died of hunger.”
(Sahih Bukhari, Book 55: 545)
This hadith is often interpreted to mean that cat owners have a responsibility to care for their cats and provide them with proper nutrition.
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Did Prophet Muhammad Have A Cat?
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is said to have owned a cat named Muezza and is often depicted with cats in Islamic art.
This has been seen as an indication that cat ownership is not haram, although it is important to note that the Prophet Muhammad’s cat was known for its kindness and loyalty which are qualities that cat owners should strive for.
Is Neutering A Cat Haram?
When it comes to cats, Islam does not give any explicit rulings on cat neutering. However, some scholars argue that cat neutering is permissible as long as the cat’s welfare is kept in mind and it is done with the intention of preventing animal overpopulation.
At the same time, cat owners should be aware that cat neutering can be a stressful experience for cats and is usually done with anesthesia. As such, cat owners should consult their veterinarian before making any decisions to ensure that the cat is healthy enough for the procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Have A Cat In Islam?
Yes, cat ownership is generally permissible in Islam as long as it is done responsibly. This includes providing your cat with proper nutrition and healthcare and not buying cats from irresponsible breeders.
2. Is Cat Trading Permissible In Islam?
Some scholars argue that cat trading is permissible if it is done with the intention of providing the cat with a better home and if the cat is not being exploited.
3. Is Cat Ownership Haram In Islam?
No, cat ownership is generally permissible in Islam as long as it is done responsibly. This includes providing your cat with proper nutrition and healthcare and not buying cats from irresponsible breeders.
Cat owners should also be aware of the rulings on cat neutering and consult a veterinarian before making any decisions.
4. Can I Pray With Cat Hair?
No, cat hair should not be used when praying as it is considered dirty. Therefore, cat owners should ensure that their cat does not come into contact with prayer items such as prayer mats or clothing.
Conclusion
Is It Haram To Have A Cat? To conclude the verdict on whether is it haram to have a cat it can be said that while there are differing opinions on this topic among Muslim scholars around the world, no clear consensus can be framed.
Thus, much like any other ethical dilemma faced by Muslims today, individuals must make their own informed assessment based on available research and guidance obtained through personal reflection and contemplation.
Those who wish to keep cats must also ensure they take proper responsibility for providing adequate food and shelter for these animals at all times in accordance with Islamic principles of good stewardship over all God’s creations.
