Have We Forgotten Compassion in Islam?

As-salamu alaykum, everyone. I want to start by saying that I’m an Arab Muslim, and I say this from a place of love for Islam. I spent my childhood in Syria until I was 12, then moved to Saudi Arabia until I was 16, and now I’ve lived in Germany for 10 years. Before coming here, I never really thought about how animals were treated, but seeing the care animals get in the West shocked me. When I visit places like Egypt or Syria, it breaks my heart to see how stray animals suffer. In Germany, I’ve barely seen a stray cat, and those I do see seem well looked after. At the same time, I’ve witnessed some people who call themselves Muslims mistreating animals-kicking a cat near the mosque, kids harming animals for fun, and many ignoring animals in pain on the streets. It’s heartbreaking; I still remember a video of a dying animal that moved me to tears. Then there are those who breed animals just to sell them and abandon the ones they don’t want, or people who suddenly release pets on the streets, expecting them to survive alone. I’m not blaming those who struggle themselves or those few who try to make a difference-I understand their difficulties. But the majority? Where is the mercy in their hearts? Islam teaches us to be merciful, not only to humans but to all creatures. How can we expect Allah’s mercy if we don’t show any kindness to His creations? I’m honestly saddened and disappointed to see this hypocrisy. Islam’s teachings haven’t changed, but people’s behavior has. While the West has its issues, in some ways they show more respect and compassion toward animals than many in Muslim countries. May Allah guide us all to be kinder and more compassionate, reflecting the true spirit of our beautiful faith.