Question:
Asalaamu Alaikum,
I own a cat that was once abandoned. About a year ago, I got her from an animal shelter. She is a very loving, sweet and affectionate cat in so many ways. I love her tremendously. But unfortunately, she “spooks” easily and then she is likely to scratch quite violently. She has hurt me a couple of times. Some vets recommend declawing — it is not a particularly painful procedure they say. But I’m afraid that might be an injustice or oppression to the cat. Afterall, claws are an essential element to the nature of the cat. What should I do?
Answer:
wa `alaykum salam,
In Islam, the punishment for torturing cats is severe. Our faith holds a special place for cats. To mistreat a cat is seen as a sin:
Al-Bukhari reported a hadith regarding a woman who locked up a cat, preventing it to feed itself. The Messenger of Allah (s) said that her punishment on the Day of Judgment will be torture and Hell.
Imam Senad Agic
American Islamic Center – Chicago
Majlis #1 Head Imam (IABNA)
www.aicchicago.com
www.imamsenadagic.com
www.iabna.org
