doudou5In Morocco, as people explore various tourist attractions, they often overlook another prominent presence: cats. Stray cats are ubiquitous, lounging lazily in the sun and occasionally casting a disdainful glance at tourists frantically snapping photos. To these cats, humans likely appear quite foolish.
Due to my fondness for cats, I’ve always paid special attention to these “feline stars” around the world during my travels. Over seventeen years and more than seventy countries later, Turkey stood out as having an impressive “Kingdom of Cats,” especially Istanbul—a true city of felines even immortalized in the documentary “Kedi.” However, upon arriving in Morocco, I discovered that its feline population rivals Turkey’s both in number and quality of life. Here too, cats enjoy high status and freedom—moving about freely in groups without fear.
In Morocco’s old cities, it’s always the cats who wake up first—patrolling streets alone or in pairs as they survey their territory. Much like humans who have weathered centuries of change; these felines have developed their own philosophies: If outnumbered by birds—run away; when defending territory—the show of force matters more than winning; always eat fresh fish.
On Essaouira’s Atlantic coast lies an example—a curious tricolor female cat unafraid and non-aggressive towards people—indicating local kindness towards them.
At Essaouira’s port battery stood another yellow feline acting as my tour guide/model—posing gracefully as if well-trained.
Chefchaouen’s residents dislike being photographed so instead—I captured images featuring its blue-world-dwelling felines instead.
Deep within alleyways flicker ghostly feline shadows—a black cat vanishes instantly from staircases within this seemingly unhideable blue realm yet still performing mysterious feats.
Every blue door had its sentinel—a curious observation given how few dogs were seen perhaps indicating guardianship roles assumed by these felines too!
Moroccans’ tolerance towards felines might find roots within Islamic culture: According to Hadiths (Prophet Muhammad’s sayings), he was renowned for loving felines—instructing kindness & ample feeding while warning against mistreatment lest facing divine retribution! Islam’s respect/protection towards felines especially Muhammad’s loving example integrates into Muslim faith itself!
While photographing Rabat’s sunset near riverside—I encountered several awaiting fishing boats’ return targeting both fishermen’s small dried fish hauls & nearby hunting herons! Observing herons intently focusing on water while drooling feline lurks behind wishing them good luck!
Casablanca’s Hassan II Mosque—a modern architectural marvel—even its resident felines exude grandeur radiating superior airs linked via sacred associations making them extraordinary strays indeed!
Magically Moroccan felines disappear on worship days especially Eid al-Adha (Festival Of Sacrifice)—rumored collective pilgrimages foregoing feasting opportunities expressing devotion post-pilgrimage—a belief possibly convincing Muslims beyond our imagination!
Finally borrowing words from “Kedi”: “When seeing feline rubbing against leg gazing upwards—it marks your luckiest moment since life smiles through such lucky moments reminding us we’re alive.”
