What is the ruling on one who intentionally kills a cat?

Intentionally killing a cat without a legitimate Shar'i purpose is forbidden, and the perpetrator is considered sinful. He must seek forgiveness and repent. This is because the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, forbade the torturing of animals, meaning holding them alive to be killed by shooting or other means, and he said: "Do not take anything containing a soul as a target." This prohibition is for the purpose of declaring it unlawful due to the torture inflicted upon the animal and the destruction of its life.