Islam is a religion that teaches us to be merciful towards all the living creatures and not just human beings. As Muslims, we must follow the teachings of the Quran, and this is what the Quran says about the animals and why we should be merciful and kind towards them.
Islam completely forbids any sort of cruelty towards the animals which means it stops us from killing them without any reason. Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said: “‘Whoever kills a bird or anything else without its due right, God would ask him about it.’ It was said: ‘O Messenger of God! What is its due right?’ He said: ‘To kill it for food…and do not sever its head, and throw it!’” (Targheeb)
Abu Dawood reported that once Prophet Muhammad (SAW) passed by a camel who seemed very weak due to lack of food and said “Fear God in regards to these animals who can not speak their will. If you ride them, treat them accordingly (by making them strong and fit for that), and if you [plan to] eat them, treat them accordingly (by making them fat and healthy).”
Abu Dawood (RA) and Ahmed (RA) reported that Abu Masood said: “The Prophet (SAW) saw a colony of ants which we’ve burned. He asked, “Who is responsible for this act?” We answered, “We are”. The Prophet replied, “No one is allowed to punish with fire except the Creator who made it.”
It is every Muslim’s dream to be loved by Allah (SWT). When we show love and compassion towards His creation, He will surely see that we are doing good and verily as the Quran says ‘Allah loves the doers of good.’
Moses said: Who is the best in judgment of your servants? Allah said: Those who judge people as they would love to be judged themselves. Moses said: Who are the most honored of your servants? Allah said: Those who forgive when they have power over others.
SAHIH IBN HIBBAN 6352
