Eid-ul-Adha is one of the most important Islamic festivals celebrated by Muslims around the world. It is a time of sacrifice, devotion, sharing, and caring for others. During these blessed days, Muslims offer qurbani by sacrificing animals such as goats, sheep, cows, bulls, and camels in the name of Allah.
However, buying a qurbani animal is not just about choosing the biggest or most beautiful animal in the market. Islam has given clear guidelines regarding the age, health, and condition of sacrificial animals. Every Muslim should understand these basic rules to ensure their qurbani is valid and accepted.
As Eid-ul-Adha 2026 approaches, animal markets across Pakistan will once again become crowded with buyers and sellers. Whether you plan to buy your animal from a traditional mandi or through online platforms, it is important to make an informed decision.
Here is a simple guide to help you choose the right qurbani animal this Eid.
Importance of Qurbani in Islam
Qurbani is performed in remembrance of the great sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), who was willing to sacrifice his beloved son for the sake of Allah’s command. Allah accepted his sincerity and replaced his son with an animal for sacrifice.
Since then, Muslims perform qurbani every year during Eid-ul-Adha as a symbol of obedience, faith, and sacrifice.
The sacrifice is performed during the 10th, 11th, and 12th of Zil-Hajj. The meat is usually divided among family, relatives, and the needy, spreading happiness within the community.
Basic Rules for Buying Qurbani Animals
There are some important conditions that every sacrificial animal must fulfill. These rules are commonly accepted in most schools of thought.
- Check the Age of the Animal
One of the most important conditions is the age requirement. An animal below the required age is not considered valid for qurbani.
Sheep for Qurbani
According to one opinion, a sheep should be at least six months old and healthy enough to look like a one-year-old sheep.
According to another opinion, a sheep or dumba should be at least one year old.
A sheep is usually enough for one person’s qurbani.
Goat for Qurbani
A goat or bakra must be at least one year old.
One goat counts as qurbani for one person.
Cow or Bull for Qurbani
A cow or bull should be at least two years old.
A cow or bull can be shared among seven people.
Camel for Qurbani
A camel must be at least five years old.
A camel can also be divided into seven shares.
- How to Identify the Animal’s Age
Many buyers struggle to determine the real age of animals, especially in busy animal markets.
One common method used in Pakistan is checking whether the animal is “donda.”
What Does “Donda” Mean?
If the front two lower teeth of the animal are larger and permanent compared to the rest, the animal is called “donda.” This usually indicates the animal has reached the required age for qurbani.
This method is commonly used for goats, sheep, cows, and bulls.
Still, buyers should remain careful because some sellers may try to mislead customers. If possible, take an experienced person with you when purchasing an animal.
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Health Conditions for Qurbani Animals
Islam emphasizes kindness and proper treatment of animals. Therefore, sacrificial animals must be healthy and free from serious defects.
- The Animal Should Not Be Too Weak
Avoid buying animals that are extremely thin, weak, or unable to stand properly. A healthy animal reflects proper care and fulfills the spirit of qurbani.
- The Animal Must Be Able to Walk
Animals with lame legs or serious walking problems are not suitable for sacrifice.
Before buying, observe the animal carefully while it walks.
- Avoid Blind or One-Eyed Animals
An animal that is blind or has major eyesight problems should not be selected for qurbani.
Healthy eyes are considered an important sign of a healthy animal.
- Check the Limbs, Horns, and Teeth
Broken horns, damaged limbs, or missing teeth may affect the validity of qurbani depending on the severity of the defect.
Always inspect the animal carefully before finalizing the purchase.
- Ears Should Not Be Cut
Animals with cropped or heavily damaged ears should generally be avoided.
- Avoid Sick or Injured Animals
Do not buy animals with visible wounds, infections, fever, or signs of illness.
A healthy qurbani animal is not only religiously important but also safer for meat consumption.
Why Breed Matters
Many people think only weight determines the price of an animal, but breed also plays a major role.
Different breeds have different body structures, meat quality, and market demand. Some goat breeds are naturally larger and more expensive than others.
