Ibn ‘Umar and Abu Huraira reported God’s messenger as saying, “A woman was punished on account of a cat which she kept shut up till it died of hunger. She did not feed it or let it out so that it might eat things creeping on the earth.”(Bukhari and Muslim.)
Hadith Commentary: The Case of the Confined Cat
This profound narration from Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim, also documented in Mishkat al-Masabih 1903, serves as a stark reminder of the sanctity Allah has placed upon all living creatures. The Messenger of Allah ﷺ informed us of a woman who entered the Fire due to a cat she confined until it perished from starvation.
The Gravity of Animal Rights in Islam
Scholars explain that this punishment demonstrates how seriously Islam takes the rights of animals. The woman committed two offenses: neglecting to provide sustenance (feeding) and preventing the cat from seeking Allah's provision itself (letting it loose).
This hadith establishes that causing unnecessary suffering to animals is a major sin. Imam an-Nawawi commented that the severity of the punishment indicates the gravity of the transgression, as the woman was held accountable for violating the rights of a creature that could not speak for itself.
Broader Legal and Ethical Implications
Jurists derive from this that being kind to animals is obligatory (wajib), while causing them harm is forbidden (haram). This extends beyond cats to all domesticated animals and pets in one's care.
The ruling applies particularly to creatures under human custody. Scholars note that if one cannot properly care for an animal, they should not keep it or must arrange for its proper care. This principle connects to the broader Islamic ethic of stewardship (khilafah) over creation.
Spiritual Lessons for the Believer
This narration teaches that mercy toward animals is part of faith. The Prophet ﷺ said, "The merciful are shown mercy by the Most Merciful. Be merciful to those on earth, and the One in heaven will have mercy upon you."
It also demonstrates Allah's perfect justice - even creatures we might consider insignificant have rights that Allah will exact on their behalf on the Day of Judgment. This should instill in every Muslim a consciousness of responsibility toward all living beings.