Is Selling or Buying Pets Considered Haram? Helpful Clarification

In general, selling or buying pets is considered halal (permissible) in Islam. But, there are some important exceptions and details to this rule. The permissibility can change depending on the type of animal and the reason for buying or selling it.

Animals that are Halal or Haram to Buy or Sell as Pets

Selling or buying pets depends on if they are beneficial and safe for people. Some animals are considered halal to sell and keep as pets, while others are haram due to their harmful nature or impurity. It is important to choose pets that provide companionship or serve a good purpose without causing harm.

Halal Pets You Can Buy and Sell

Certain animals are halal to keep and trade in Islam, as long as they are treated well and offer some benefit, like companionship or utility:

Animal (Pet)	Reason
Birds (e.g parrots)	Birds are popular halal pets as they are harmless, easy to care for, and can bring joy to the household.
Fish (e.g goldfish, guppies)	Fish are peaceful creatures that can be kept in aquariums without harm. They also serve as beautiful decorations.
Cats	It is permissible to keep them as pets because they help control pests and are affectionate animals.
Rabbits	They are gentle animals that are easy to handle and provide a sense of companionship.
Sheep and Goats	These animals are beneficial for their milk, and wool, and even as sacrificial animals during Islamic festivals.
Horses	It can be used for riding, sports, or as working animals, making them permissible.
Chickens and Ducks	Chickens and ducks are halal pets because they can provide eggs and are not harmful.
Camels	They are considered halal because they are used for riding and transport, especially in desert regions.

Read more about these Halal Pets in Islam

Haram Pets You Cannot Buy and Sell

Some animals are haram to keep or sell as pets due to their harmful nature, impurity, or lack of benefit to humans:

Animal (Pet)	Reason
Snakes	Snakes are forbidden due to their dangerous and harmful nature.
Predatory Animals (e.g., lions, tigers)	Wild predators are haram because they can harm humans and are not suitable to be kept as pets.
Pigs	They are considered impure (najis) and forbidden in Islam, whether as food or as pets.
Scorpions and Poisonous Insects	Poisonous insects can cause serious harm and have no benefit as pets.
Frogs	They are not permissible as pets because of their impurity and potential to cause harm.
Monkeys	Keeping monkeys as pets is haram due to their mischievous nature and the difficulty of managing them.
Bats	Bats are considered haram due to their association with disease and harmful potential.
Dogs	Dogs are considered impure (najis) animals in Islam. Their saliva, fur, and other parts can dirty things and places.
Eagle	Eagles are haram as pets because they are predatory birds that hunt and eat animals, including those forbidden in Islam.
Lizards:	Most lizards are not good pets in Islam. They’re often seen as unclean creatures. It’s better to choose not to keep them as pets.

If you want to read more about Animals mentioned above: List of Haram Pets

While certain animals, like dogs and monkeys, are considered haram as pets in Islam, it’s still important to treat them with respect and kindness. Islam teaches us to show mercy to these creatures even if they are not allowed to be kept as pets.

What Muslim Scholars Say About Buying and Selling Pets

When it comes to keeping pets in Islam, many Muslims look to scholars for guidance. These knowledgeable individuals help us understand which animals are allowed as pets and which are not. Their advice comes from the Quran, Hadith, and years of Islamic study. By following their guidance, Muslims can make good choices about pets that follow Islamic rules.

Dr. Mohammed Salah

He clarified that selling dogs is strictly forbidden and considered haram, as their price is not permissible. But, he noted that selling other pets, such as cats, parrots, or special kinds of animals that require special care, can be acceptable under certain conditions. Overall, the focus is on verifying the ethical treatment and care of animals in the pet business.

You can watch his short video to clarify your confusion:

Sheikh Muhammad ibn Adam al-Kawthari

According to Sheikh Muhammad ibn Adam al-Kawthari, it is halal (permissible) to buy and sell animals like cats, birds, and other pure animals in Islam, as long as they are treated with kindness and not harmed.

The business transaction must also follow fair trade rules in Islam. Cruelty to animals is strictly forbidden, and both parties in the transaction should avoid deception or unfairness.

Islamic scholars teach us that while some animals are allowed as pets, others are not. They clearly say that we should not buy or sell haram (forbidden) animals.

These Scholars also remind us to be kind to all animals, even if we can not keep them as pets. When choosing a pet, Muslims should consider what Islam permits and if they can properly care for the animal.

Final Thoughts on Pets in Islam

When it comes to choosing pets in Islam, it’s important to think carefully about our choices. Many animals, like cats, birds, and fish, are halal and can make great companions. So, some animals, such as dogs, pigs, and snakes are not allowed as pets.

It is important to treat any pet we have with kindness and care because Islam teaches us to be compassionate to all living things. Also, when buying or selling pets, we should follow fair and honest practices to avoid any harm.

By making thoughtful decisions and providing a loving home for our pets, we can live according to our faith.

May Allah guide us to make choices that align with Islamic teachings and grant us wisdom in caring for His creations.