Celebrate Global Cat Day and Katch the Significance of Felines in Saudi Culture

1st October, 2025 | Communication, Public Relations

by - Beth Laverty

Honouring Global Cat Day, we’re taking a deep dive into the furry friends who have been by our side for centuries, capturing our hearts with their sass, snuggles, and quirky personalities

Celebrated every year on October 16th, Global Cat Day is a chance to celebrate cats as part of the family and wider community. Our bond with these adorable little weirdos goes back thousands of years and spans every corner of the world. This day also highlights that all cats, from clever street prowlers to pampered indoor fluffballs, deserve love and protection.

In Saudi Arabia, the love for cats runs deep. For generations, they’ve used their sharp claws to keep mice out of homes in exchange for snacks and the occasional belly rub. These days, many cats have swapped their hunting instincts for lazy naps and Dreamies, but they remain just as popular among pet lovers in the Kingdom.

Let’s dive into the rich history of cats in the region and find out what makes them Saudi Arabia’s favourite furry companions.

The Origins of Domesticated Cats

For years, the ancient Egyptians were credited with domesticating cats around 3600-4700 years ago. Even back then, felines were considered members of the family, with some owners supposedly shaving their eyebrows off as a sign of grief when their kitties passed. Many feline skulls have even been found mummified alongside their owners so they could accompany their family in the afterlife – freaky but cute.

However, more recent evidence suggests that house cats originated in the Fertile Crescent, located in the modern-day Middle East. This domestication likely began roughly 10,000 years ago when humans began farming livestock and crops. DNA evidence identified them as Felis silvestris lybica or the Near Eastern wildcat, meaning their genetic makeup was almost identical to that of modern-day domestic cats.

Cats in Islamic Tradition

In Islam, cats are regarded as holy animals, admired for their cleanliness. These sofa lions are considered ritually clean, which means they are traditionally welcome in both homes and mosques. Given that Saudi Arabia is the birthplace of Islam and the first domesticated cats trace back to here, you can see why they gained popularity.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) himself is said to have been a true cat lover, with a favourite feline named Muezza. One well-known story tells of how he found her curled up asleep on the sleeve of his prayer robe just as he was about to get up and pray. Instead of waking her, he carefully cut the sleeve off.

The Rise of Pets in Saudi Arabia

Pet ownership in the Kingdom has significantly grown in the past few years, with one study showing that the pet population in Saudi Arabia had more than tripled between 2020 and 2023. The trend is particularly popular among the younger generation and urban areas, with Riyadh leading in cat ownership, as highlighted by the success of events like the International Cat Show.

Cities are also more popular among pet owners due to greater access to healthcare and other services like grooming and catteries. Back in 2022, Riyadh took things a step further by opening the five-star hotel for cats in the Kingdom. Owners can check their kitties in while they go to work or on vacation and monitor their stay through a special app.

Breeding cats in Saudi Arabia has also become increasingly popular. Some of the nation’s favourite breeds include the Arabian Mau, a practical choice for pet lovers in the Kingdom, thanks to their ability to thrive in harsh desert climates. Persian cats are another common companion, admired for their laid-back personalities and fluff-tastic appearance.

Looking Out for the Kingdom’s Feline Friends

Cats have long held a special place in Saudi culture, and today, that respect is reflected in the growing efforts to care for both house cats and strays. Across the Kingdom, organisations like Horayra Community and Madinah Cats are leading the charge, distributing free food to rescuers and providing vital medical care, shelter, and support for feline friends in need. Even local authorities are stepping in, with cities like Ha’il installing public feeders to make sure street cats have access to food and water.

One particularly heartwarming story made headlines in 2023, when a cat trapped in a sanitation pipe in Riyadh for 10 days was finally rescued thanks to a 240-hour mission by local volunteers. The feline, later named Amana, Arabic for ‘trust’, was adopted by a local resident. We hope she’s living her best life and getting lots of cuddles.

Cats certainly have a place in Saudi history and culture, but they take up an even bigger spot in our hearts. While their independent (and sometimes sassy) spirit isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, it’s important that we all play a part in ensuring the nation’s fur balls are well cared for. Between the Prophet’s beloved pet Muezza and the brave rescue kitty Amana, cats always seem to bring out our softer side, showing the compassion of Saudi people and the true meaning of community.

For more related updates and to Katch us covering similar topics, watch this space!

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