How to Choose Healthy Animals for Eid al-Adha Sacrifice

Eid is the most significant religious festival for Muslims, celebrated on the 10^th day of Dhu al-Hijjah. This year, Bangladesh will observe Eid al-Adha on May 27 or 28, depending on the moon sighting. A key ritual of Eid al-Adha is sacrificing an animal of your choice, symbolizing piety to Allah, with part of the meat shared with the poor. Selecting a healthy, strong animal is crucial for this sacrifice.

Over 10 million animals are slaughtered during Qurbani nationwide. People often focus on the animal’s health to choose the best one. To determine if an animal is healthy, strong, and disease-free, consider these tips:

1) Healthy animals have bright, relatively large eyes; they chew cud, wiggle their ears, wag their tails to fend off flies, and react when disturbed, often showing anger. Sick cattle tend to be unresponsive to noise and stay relaxed.

2) The moistness of the muzzle indicates health; a dry muzzle suggests illness. Sick cattle may also have elevated body temperatures.
3) Normal urine and dung indicate good health, as opposed to a sign of illness.

4) When offered feed, a healthy cattle will quickly pull it away with its tongue, whereas a sick one shows little interest in eating.

5) Some traders may use steroids to quickly fatten cattle, making them appear healthy but less agile. Pressing their body lightly will cause sagging; a healthy cow’s body will quickly return to normal after finger pressure.

6) Before buying, observe if the animal walks normally without signs of injury or illness.

Bangladesh now meets its demand for sacrificial animals, such as cattle, buffaloes, and goats, through local farmers, reducing imports. According to the Department of Livestock Services (DLS), about 12.3 million suitable animals are available to meet demand. Throughout the process from purchase to meat preparation, maintaining cleanliness and seeking veterinary advice if diseases are prevalent are essential.

After purchase, many tend to feed the animal more before slaughter, which is not ideal. It’s better to withhold feed for 12 hours prior to slaughter and provide ample water to facilitate skinning. Immediate cleaning of blood and waste after slaughter helps keep the environment clean and ensures a joyful Eid celebration.

Writer : DR. Abdur Rahman