In Islam, the permissibility of keeping pets varies between dogs and cats. While dogs are generally restricted, cats are embraced as permissible pets. Let’s dive into why this distinction exists.

Why Are Dogs Considered Haram?

According to Islamic teachings, dogs are only allowed in specific circumstances such as for protection, hunting, or herding livestock. This ruling is based on several Hadiths from the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

For example, Ibn ‘Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet said: “Whoever keeps a dog, except a dog trained for hunting or herding livestock, will have their reward decreased daily by two Qirats.” [Narrated by al-Bukhari, 5059]

The term “Qirat” is described as being equivalent to two large mountains, signifying a significant decrease in rewards. This Hadith emphasizes the spiritual consequence of keeping a dog without a valid reason.

Moreover, the Prophet stated: “The angels do not enter a house in which there is a dog or an image.” [Narrated by al-Bukhari, 3322; Muslim, 2106] Therefore, dogs should not enter the house, and if kept, they should have a separate area.

Permissibility of Keeping Dogs for Specific Purposes

Islamic scholars agree that keeping dogs is permissible under three exceptions: hunting, guarding livestock, and protecting crops. The debate continues regarding keeping dogs for guarding homes. Some scholars permit it by analogy, given the necessity and common practice.

Al-‘Iraaqi explains that most scholars allow keeping dogs for guarding homes based on the necessity and analogy with the exceptions mentioned in Hadith. [Tarh al-Tathreeb, 6/28]

Why Are Cats Permissible?

In contrast, cats are permitted in Islam and are considered pure animals. Several Hadiths highlight the purity of cats. For instance, it is narrated that Abu Qatadah saw a cat drinking from water intended for ablution and did not find it objectionable. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) stated that cats are not impure and are among those who mingle with us. [Classed as saheeh by al-Albaani]

Scholars agree that the saliva of cats is pure, and their presence does not affect the purity of water or clothes. As Shaykh Ibn Taymiyah notes, the hair of any animal, including cats, is considered pure. [Majmoo‘ al-Fataawa, 21/38]

Practical Considerations

• Can You Pray if Cat Hair Is on Your Clothes? Yes, cat hair is pure, so your prayer remains valid.
• Does Wudu Break if a Cat Licks You? No, the wudu is not affected by a cat’s lick, as their saliva is pure.

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