Can you keep a cat according to Islam? - briefly
In Islam, keeping a cat is permissible and even encouraged, as cats are considered clean animals and the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) showed kindness to them.
Can you keep a cat according to Islam? - in detail
In Islam, keeping a cat is not only permissible but also viewed positively due to the high regard in which cats are held within the tradition. Cats are considered clean animals, and their presence in a household is generally encouraged. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) demonstrated kindness and care toward cats, and there are several narrations (hadiths) that highlight this. For instance, it is reported that the Prophet allowed a cat to drink from his ablution water, and he even cut off the sleeve of his garment rather than disturb a cat that was sleeping on it. These examples illustrate the respect and compassion shown toward cats in Islamic teachings. Additionally, cats are allowed to roam freely in homes, and their saliva is considered pure, which simplifies matters of ritual cleanliness for Muslims. However, it is essential to treat cats with kindness, provide them with proper care, and ensure their well-being. Neglecting or mistreating any animal, including cats, is strongly discouraged in Islam. Therefore, keeping a cat aligns with Islamic principles as long as the owner fulfills their responsibilities toward the animal with compassion and care.