Exploring TikTok Cat Memes as Innovative Medium for Audience Engagement with Islamic Learning Content

Abstract

The digital age has changed how religious messages are shared. Social media platforms, especially TikTok, have become important places for spreading Islamic teachings. This study looks at how TikTok cat memes work as a new way to engage audiences with Islamic learning content. Using a qualitative approach with netnographic methods, the research analyzed 15 TikTok cat meme videos that contain Islamic messages and 255 audience comments collected in July 2026. The analysis focused on three elements of the videos, namely visual, audio, and text, as well as how audiences responded in the comment sections. The findings show that these cat memes use three main features: funny cat expressions that represent human situations, a mix of serious lectures and light music, and simple text that explains Islamic teachings in everyday language. Audience responses fell into four patterns: sharing personal spiritual experiences, asking questions about Islamic rules, making jokes, and expressing appreciation for the content. This study contributes to understanding how humor and popular culture can be used to share Islamic values in a way that feels accessible to younger audiences.