Kindness to Animals in Islam: Quran, Hadith and Islamic Teachings on Animal Welfare

Animals are an important part of the world Allah has created.

From birds flying across the sky to cats resting near our homes, animals share the Earth with human beings.

Some animals provide food, transport and other benefits. Others live in forests, oceans, deserts and gardens.

Islam teaches that animals should not be treated with unnecessary cruelty. They are living creatures that deserve appropriate care and consideration.

The Quran and authentic teachings of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ contain important lessons about mercy, responsibility and the treatment of animals.

In this article, we explore Islamic teachings on animal welfare, authentic Hadith about kindness and practical ways Muslims can care for animals in everyday life.

1. Animals Are Part of Allah's Creation

Allah created a world filled with different forms of life.

Animals have different abilities, behaviours and purposes.

Some live on land.

Others live in water.

Birds travel through the skies.

The Quran encourages human beings to reflect upon the signs of Allah throughout creation.

Recognising animals as part of Allah's creation can help develop a sense of responsibility towards them.

2. What Does the Quran Say About Animals?

Allah says:

“And there is no creature on earth or bird that flies with its wings except that they are communities like you.”

Reference: Quran 6:38

This verse reminds readers that animals exist within their own communities and forms of life.

They are not merely objects for human use.

3. Animals Glorify Allah

The Quran teaches that creatures glorify Allah in ways known to Him.

Allah says:

“Do you not see that Allah is exalted by whomever is within the heavens and the earth and by the birds with wings spread?”

Reference: Quran 24:41

This verse encourages believers to recognise the relationship between creation and its Creator.

4. Mercy Is an Important Islamic Value

Mercy is central to Islamic character.

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught:

“Those who are merciful will be shown mercy by the Most Merciful.”

Reference: Jami' at-Tirmidhi 1924; Sunan Abi Dawud 4941

The general principle of mercy extends to how people treat living creatures.

A Muslim should avoid cruelty and unnecessary suffering.

5. The Hadith of the Thirsty Dog

One of the most famous authentic Hadith about kindness to animals concerns a thirsty dog.

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ described a man who saw a dog suffering from thirst.

The man went down into a well, filled his shoe with water and gave the dog something to drink.

Allah appreciated his act and forgave him.

Reference: Sahih al-Bukhari 2363; Sahih Muslim 2244

This story teaches an important lesson.

Even a small act of compassion towards an animal can be meaningful in the sight of Allah.

6. There Is Reward in Kindness to Living Creatures

In the narration about the thirsty dog, the Companions asked whether there was reward for serving animals.

The Prophet ﷺ explained that there is reward in kindness towards every living creature.

Reference: Sahih al-Bukhari 2363

This encourages Muslims to care about animal welfare rather than ignoring suffering.

7. The Hadith of the Woman and the Cat

Another authentic Hadith contains a serious warning about cruelty.

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ described a woman who was punished because she confined a cat without feeding it or allowing it to find food.

Reference: Sahih al-Bukhari 3318; Sahih Muslim 2242

The lesson is clear.

Keeping an animal creates responsibilities.

An animal should not be deliberately deprived of necessary food, water or appropriate care.

8. Feeding Animals Is an Act of Kindness

Providing food to an animal in need can be a compassionate action.

Examples include:

Feeding a hungry pet.

Providing suitable food for an animal under your care.

Helping a neglected animal through appropriate welfare services.

Supporting organisations that care for abandoned animals.

Food should be suitable for the animal's species and health needs.

9. Providing Clean Water

Water is essential for animal life.

Animals can suffer severely when they are deprived of water, especially in hot weather.

If you care for an animal, make sure it has access to appropriate drinking water.

For stray or wild animals, offer assistance responsibly without creating health or safety problems.

10. Caring for Cats in Islam

Cats are common household animals in many Muslim communities.

A person who keeps a cat should provide:

Suitable food.

Clean drinking water.

A safe environment.

Appropriate hygiene.

Veterinary care when needed.

Space for normal behaviour.

The Hadith about the neglected cat is a reminder that ownership involves responsibility.

11. Caring for Dogs

Islamic jurisprudence contains specific discussions about keeping dogs, their purposes and purification matters.

These legal discussions should not be confused with permission to abuse dogs.

The authentic Hadith about giving water to a thirsty dog clearly demonstrates the importance of compassion.

A dog should not be deliberately starved, tortured or harmed without legitimate justification.

12. Animals Should Not Be Kept Without Proper Care

Before keeping a pet, consider whether you can meet its needs.

Ask yourself:

Can I provide suitable food?

Can I provide water?

Do I have enough space?

Can I afford necessary veterinary treatment?

Can I maintain a safe environment?

Can I care for this animal consistently?

Keeping a pet should be a responsible decision.

13. Do Not Abandon Animals Carelessly

Abandoning a dependent animal can expose it to hunger, disease, injury and other dangers.

If you can no longer care for a pet, seek a responsible rehoming arrangement.

Contact a reputable animal welfare organisation or suitable new owner.

Do not simply leave the animal somewhere and assume it will survive.

14. Avoid Physical Cruelty

Animals should not be beaten, tortured or injured for entertainment.

Islamic teachings strongly encourage mercy and condemn unnecessary suffering.

Anger or frustration does not justify cruelty.

If an animal is behaving dangerously, seek an appropriate humane and safe solution.

15. Do Not Use Animals as Targets

Authentic Hadith prohibit using living creatures as targets for shooting or similar practices.

Reference: Sahih Muslim 1957

This reflects the Islamic prohibition of causing unnecessary suffering for amusement.

Animals should not be harmed merely to entertain people.

16. Do Not Harm Animals for Entertainment

Animal cruelty can sometimes be disguised as entertainment.

Examples may include:

Forcing animals to fight.

Deliberately frightening animals.

Injuring animals for videos.

Encouraging harmful behaviour for social-media attention.

A Muslim should avoid participating in or promoting cruelty.

17. Respect Animals Used for Work

Some animals are used for transport, farming and other legitimate purposes.

Their owners and handlers should provide appropriate care.

Avoid overloading animals.

Allow suitable rest.

Provide necessary food and water.

Do not force an injured or exhausted animal to continue working beyond its ability.

18. The Prophet's Guidance on Excellence in Treatment

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught that Allah has prescribed excellence in all things.

In a narration concerning slaughter, he instructed people to perform it properly and reduce suffering.

Reference: Sahih Muslim 1955

This establishes an important principle of responsible treatment even when animals are used for lawful food.

19. Humane Treatment During Slaughter

Islam permits the consumption of certain animals under established religious conditions.

However, this permission does not justify unnecessary cruelty.

Islamic guidance emphasises proper treatment and reducing avoidable suffering.

Detailed rules concerning lawful slaughter should be learned from qualified Islamic scholarship and relevant animal welfare standards.

20. Do Not Waste Animal Resources

Animals used for lawful food should not be treated carelessly.

Avoid unnecessary waste.

Use food responsibly.

Respect the resources Allah has provided.

The Quran discourages extravagance and waste.

Reference: Quran 7:31

21. Protecting Birds

Birds are part of Allah's creation.

Some live in cities, while others depend on forests, wetlands and natural habitats.

Avoid destroying nests unnecessarily.

Do not capture wild birds merely for amusement.

Respect local wildlife protection laws.

If a bird appears injured, seek advice from an appropriate wildlife rescue service.

22. Respecting Wild Animals

Wild animals should generally be allowed to live in their natural environments.

Do not approach dangerous wildlife.

Avoid feeding wild animals in ways that make them dependent on humans or place them at risk.

Respect protected areas.

Follow conservation guidance.

Compassion should be combined with knowledge and safety.

23. Protecting Animal Habitats

Animals depend on suitable habitats for survival.

Forests, rivers, wetlands and oceans support different species.

Human activities can damage these environments.

Practical ways to reduce harm include:

Avoiding littering.

Reducing unnecessary pollution.

Supporting responsible conservation.

Respecting protected habitats.

Using natural resources thoughtfully.

24. The Importance of Clean Environments

Pollution can harm animals as well as human beings.

Plastic waste may injure marine creatures.

Contaminated water can affect wildlife.

Improperly discarded materials may create hazards for domestic animals.

Keeping the environment clean is one practical way to reduce unnecessary harm.

25. Teaching Children Kindness to Animals

Children should learn that animals are living creatures, not toys.

Teach them to:

Handle pets gently.

Avoid pulling tails or ears.

Never throw stones at animals.

Provide water responsibly.

Respect animals that want to be left alone.

Ask an adult before approaching unfamiliar animals.

Good habits learned early can shape lifelong behaviour.

26. Never Encourage Children to Tease Animals

Some children may chase animals because they think it is funny.

Adults should explain that animals can become frightened or injured.

Children should also learn that scared animals may bite or scratch.

Kindness and safety are both important.

27. Animal Welfare and Public Safety

Compassion does not mean ignoring genuine dangers.

Some animals may carry diseases or behave aggressively.

If an animal presents a serious risk, seek help from trained professionals or relevant authorities.

Humane handling and public safety should be considered together.

28. Helping Injured Animals

If you find an injured animal:

Assess the situation from a safe distance.

Avoid handling dangerous or unfamiliar wildlife.

Contact a veterinarian or appropriate rescue organisation.

Follow professional advice.

Do not give unsuitable medication or food.

Well-intentioned but incorrect treatment can sometimes make an injury worse.

29. Supporting Animal Welfare Organisations

You may be able to support reputable organisations that:

Rescue injured animals.

Provide veterinary treatment.

Arrange responsible adoption.

Educate communities.

Protect wildlife habitats.

Support can include donations, volunteering or sharing reliable educational information.

30. Kindness to Animals During Hot Weather

Animals can suffer from heat and dehydration.

If you keep pets:

Provide shade.

Ensure access to water.

Avoid leaving them in dangerously hot vehicles.

Follow appropriate veterinary guidance.

In hot climates, responsible care is particularly important.

31. Kindness During Rainy or Cold Weather

Animals may also face difficulties during severe rain, flooding or cold conditions.

Domestic animals need suitable shelter.

If you see an animal in distress, seek safe and appropriate assistance.

Avoid placing yourself in danger while attempting a rescue.

32. Responsible Pet Ownership

Owning an animal is a long-term commitment.

Before adopting a pet, consider:

Its expected lifespan.

Its dietary needs.

Its living space.

Exercise and enrichment.

Veterinary expenses.

Your daily schedule.

Your ability to provide consistent care.

A pet should not be acquired merely because it looks attractive in a photograph.

33. Animal Welfare and Social Media

Videos featuring animals are popular online.

However, not every animal video represents responsible treatment.

Avoid supporting content involving:

Deliberate cruelty.

Dangerous stunts.

Animal fighting.

Forced distress.

Neglect.

Consider whether the animal's welfare has been protected.

34. Mercy Towards Small Creatures

People sometimes overlook small animals and insects.

Not every creature can safely remain inside a home, and some pests require appropriate control.

Nevertheless, avoid causing suffering without reason.

Use safe, proportionate and lawful methods when dealing with genuine household or public health problems.

35. Kindness Should Be Consistent

Compassion should not depend entirely on whether an animal is beautiful, popular or expensive.

A neglected stray animal may need help just as much as a valuable household pet.

The Islamic principle of mercy encourages consideration for living creatures.

36. A Simple Animal Kindness Checklist

At home

Provide suitable food and water for animals under your care.

Keep their living areas clean.

Arrange veterinary treatment when needed.

In your neighbourhood

Avoid frightening or harming animals.

Report serious neglect through appropriate channels.

Keep rubbish disposed of responsibly.

In nature

Respect wildlife habitats.

Avoid unnecessary disturbance.

Follow conservation rules.

Online

Do not encourage animal cruelty for entertainment.

Share reliable animal welfare information.

37. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid:

Keeping pets without meeting their basic needs.

Depriving animals of food or water.

Abandoning dependent animals carelessly.

Using animals as targets or entertainment.

Encouraging children to frighten animals.

Sharing videos that promote cruelty.

Ignoring an animal's need for veterinary care.

Feeding wildlife in unsafe ways.

Confusing compassion with unsafe handling.

Assuming animals have no importance in Islamic teachings.

38. Frequently Asked Questions

What does Islam teach about animals?

Islam teaches that animals are part of Allah's creation and should not be subjected to unnecessary cruelty.

Is there reward for helping animals?

Yes. Authentic Hadith describe reward associated with showing kindness to living creatures.

What is the Hadith about the thirsty dog?

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ described a person who gave water to a thirsty dog, and Allah appreciated the compassionate action and forgave him.

What does the Hadith about the cat teach?

It warns against neglecting an animal by confining it without providing food or allowing it to obtain nourishment.

Can Muslims keep pets?

Islamic rulings depend on the type of animal and circumstances. Anyone keeping an animal must provide appropriate care. Consult reliable Islamic scholarship for specific rulings.

Does Islam permit cruelty during animal slaughter?

No. Authentic Prophetic guidance emphasises excellence and reducing unnecessary suffering during lawful slaughter.

Can children help care for animals?

Yes, with suitable adult supervision and guidance.

What should I do if I find an injured wild animal?

Avoid unsafe handling and contact an appropriate veterinarian, wildlife rescue service or relevant authority.

Does protecting the environment help animals?

Yes. Reducing pollution and protecting habitats can help prevent harm to animals and ecosystems.

Final Thoughts

Islam teaches Muslims to show mercy and responsibility towards Allah's creation.

The Quran reminds us that animals form communities, while authentic Hadith contain powerful lessons about compassion and the consequences of cruelty.

The story of the thirsty dog demonstrates the value of a simple act of kindness.

The story of the neglected cat warns against irresponsible treatment.

Together, these teachings remind us that animals should not be treated as objects without needs.

Remember these important lessons:

Provide food and water to animals under your care.

Avoid unnecessary cruelty.

Treat pets responsibly.

Respect wildlife.

Protect natural habitats.

Teach children compassion.

Seek professional help for injured animals.

Combine kindness with safety and knowledge.

A compassionate person does not need to perform a dramatic act to make a difference.

Sometimes kindness begins with something as simple as providing clean water, caring properly for a pet or refusing to participate in cruelty.

Mercy towards animals is one meaningful way to demonstrate good Islamic character in everyday life.

---

Islamic References

• Quran 6:38 — Animals and birds as communities.

• Quran 7:31 — Avoiding waste.

• Quran 24:41 — Creatures glorifying Allah.

• Sahih al-Bukhari 2363 — Giving water to a thirsty dog.

• Sahih al-Bukhari 3318 — The warning concerning a neglected cat.

• Sahih Muslim 1955 — Excellence and proper treatment during slaughter.

• Sahih Muslim 1957 — Prohibition of using living creatures as targets.

• Sahih Muslim 2242 — The narration concerning the cat.

• Sahih Muslim 2244 — Kindness towards a thirsty dog.

• Jami' at-Tirmidhi 1924 — The importance of mercy.

• Sunan Abi Dawud 4941 — Mercy towards others.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for general Islamic education. Specific rulings concerning pets, animal ownership, slaughter, pest control and other jurisprudential matters should be referred to qualified Islamic scholarship. Animal health and welfare concerns should be discussed with appropriate veterinary professionals.