By Haroon Rashid Qureshi

rki.news
Doha

During my regular morning walks after Fajr prayers for the past several years, I have witnessed a remarkable example of kindness and compassion taking place quietly in my neighbourhood.

Every morning, a young woman from Al Graffah, Doha, arrives in her car and stops at different locations where street cats wait for her. She brings food and water, places them carefully in paper plates, and leaves after ensuring that the cats have received their daily meal.

Her routine is simple but meaningful. Without seeking attention or publicity, she continues this noble work every day. Her dedication and love for these creatures inspired me to learn more about her mission.

The streets of Doha, like many cities around the world, have a population of stray cats that depend on people’s kindness for food and water. Among those who care for these animals is Dana, a 35-year-old psychologist, whose daily efforts represent a beautiful example of humanity and responsibility toward living beings.

One day, I stopped her during her routine and politely asked about her work. I was impressed by her humble response. Later, I requested an interview with her for Rahbar Kisan International (RKI.News) to share her inspiring journey with our readers.

Although she agreed, almost a year passed before she finally shared her answers. Recently, Dana responded to my questions and explained her love for cats, daily challenges, and message for society.

A Psychology Graduate with a Compassionate Heart

Introducing herself, Dana said:

“My name is Dana. I am 35 years old and work as a psychologist. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Qatar University.”

She explained that she discovered her love for cats approximately seven years ago. Over time, this affection developed into a responsibility that became an important part of her daily life.

A Small Act That Became a Lifelong Commitment

Dana said her journey started with one stray cat that regularly visited her home.

“I don’t remember exactly when I started, but it was probably more than five years ago. What inspired me to feed cats was a stray cat that used to come to our front door. During the hot weather, we would let her inside for a while, give her food, and then she would go back outside on her own.”

That small act of kindness became the beginning of a much bigger mission.

Feeding More Than 100 Cats Every Day

Today, Dana provides food and water to more than 100 street cats every day across different locations in Doha.

“I feed more than 100 cats every day. Around 90 percent of the food and water I provide comes from my own personal expenses.”

She explained that she manages most expenses herself and receives very little outside support.

“I cover the expenses myself and only very rarely receive donations.”

Her commitment reflects a genuine desire to help without expecting anything in return.

Rescuing Sick Cats and Supporting Their Treatment

Dana’s kindness does not end with feeding cats. She also rescues sick animals and arranges medical treatment.

“I often rescue sick cats and pay for their treatment myself. As a result, I have accumulated many veterinary bills, and I do my best to pay them off whenever I can.”

Despite financial pressure, she continues because she believes every living creature deserves care and protection.

TNR: Helping Control the Street Cat Population

Dana is also involved in TNR (Trap, Neuter, Return), a humane approach that helps improve the lives of stray cats. Through this process, cats are safely trapped, neutered, and returned to their environment, helping control the population while improving their health and welfare.

The Happiness of Helping Helpless Creatures

For Dana, the greatest reward is the happiness she feels after helping an animal in need.

“I feel happy and fulfilled whenever I save a cat, satisfy its hunger, or provide it with water to quench its thirst.”

Her words reflect a deep emotional connection with animals and a belief that kindness benefits everyone.

Islam Teaches Mercy

Dana believes that kindness toward animals is closely connected with Islamic values.

“Islam is a religion of mercy in every aspect, even with animals.”

She referred to the teachings of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ regarding kindness toward cats and animals.

She mentioned the Hadith narrated by Abu Qatadah, in which he was performing ablution when a cat came and drank from the ablution water. He tilted the vessel for the cat until it had finished drinking. He explained his action by saying that he had heard the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ saying:

“It is not impure. It is one of those that move around among you.”

Dana explained that this teaches Muslims that cats are clean creatures and that we should be kind to them.

A Promise to Continue Until the End of Life

When asked how long she plans to continue this work, Dana gave a heartfelt response:

“I will never stop doing this for as long as I live. I will continue caring for and feeding stray cats until the end of my life.”

Her commitment shows that this is not a temporary activity but a lifelong responsibility based on compassion.

Dana’s Message to Humanity

Sharing her message for others, Dana said:

“My message to everyone is to show compassion to these living creatures. They are communities like you, with feelings and needs. They feel happiness and pain just as we do.”

She added:

“If you cannot feed them, at least give them water. And if you cannot even provide water, then please do not harm them in any way.”

She believes every action toward animals has value.

“Every act of kindness or cruelty toward these innocent animals matters, and we are accountable before God for how we treat His creations.”

A Quiet Example That Inspires Others

What makes Dana’s story unique is that she does not consider her daily activity a special achievement. For her, feeding street cats has become a natural part of life.

She does not wait for appreciation, photographs, or public recognition. Her happiness comes from seeing hungry animals receive food and thirsty animals receive water.

During my morning walks, I noticed that the cats were familiar with her arrival. They appeared to recognize her vehicle and waited patiently for their daily meal. This relationship was built through years of consistency, care, and trust.

In today’s fast-moving world, many people remain occupied with their own responsibilities and may overlook the needs of animals around them. Dana’s example reminds us that compassion can be practiced through simple actions.

A bowl of water, a small portion of food, or helping an injured animal can become a meaningful contribution to society.

Her work also highlights that caring for animals is not only the responsibility of organizations or welfare groups. Every person can contribute according to their ability. Some may provide food, some may support medical treatment, while others may simply avoid causing harm.

Dana’s profession as a psychologist reflects another aspect of her personality. Her understanding of emotions and care for living beings is visible not only in her professional life but also in her relationship with animals.

She believes animals have feelings and deserve respect. This belief motivates her to continue despite difficulties, expenses, and challenges.

Her story carries a universal message for people of all cultures and backgrounds. Compassion is a language understood by every living creature.

A person does not need to be wealthy or famous to make a difference. A sincere heart and willingness to help can create an impact far greater than expected.

A Message for Everyone

Kindness does not require wealth, fame, or recognition. A small act of compassion can bring comfort to another living being and make the world a better place. Every creature deserves mercy, care, and respect.

Editor’s Personal Reflection

My children have always been very fond of cats. For many years, we have had cats living inside our home, and my children feed and care for them. However, I personally used to feel uncomfortable living with cats inside the house and was never particularly comfortable around them.

After interviewing Dana and listening to her story, I began to look at cats differently. Her compassion, dedication, and sincere love for these innocent creatures made me realize that animals also deserve kindness, care, and respect.

Her story changed my attitude. I now feel much more comfortable with the cats living in our home and have started appreciating their presence rather than feeling uncomfortable.

As a Muslim, I also appreciate more deeply that showing mercy and kindness to animals, especially cats, is part of the values taught by Islam.

Sometimes, one meaningful conversation can change the way we see the world. My interview with Dana was one such experience for me.