Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, Buddhism, and Judaism all contain teachings relevant to animal welfare, ranging from stewardship obligations to ahimsa, with significant implications for farming and slaughter practices.
Religious teachings on animals are diverse and often contain genuine welfare content: compassion, stewardship, non-harm, and the recognition of animal sentience appear across traditions. However, historical interpretations have sometimes been used to justify practices that cause suffering, particularly in slaughter. Progressive religious scholarship increasingly emphasises that core values such as compassion and stewardship require active welfare protection. Faith communities can be powerful advocates for animal welfare when theological traditions are engaged thoughtfully, making religious outreach an important dimension of the animal welfare movement.