Killing Cats and Dogs That Cause Much Harm

25-8-2000 | IslamWeb

Question:

I would be grateful if you advise me on the following: I can not stand cats, and I leave in a neighborhood full of cats. They are turning my life into a miserable state; some of my children have started to be like me also. My question is: Would I be sinner if I tried to get rid of them by giving them poisoned food...I have tried to ask people to take them away, but in no vain. I live in a compound which is very clean, but still cats are there. Please advice as this matter really effects me in a negative way. Thank you very much.

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Answer:

All perfect praise be to Allah, The Lord of the Worlds. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allah, and that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger.

If these cats and dogs really cause much harm and disturb people as to cause their life to become miserable, then it becomes permissible to kill them. However, one should first try his best to get rid of them by any way without killing them, such as by transporting them away and terrifying them by hitting them slightly… etc.

Perhaps you could also consider moving elsewhere.

Allah knows best.