Guinea pigs are haram; however, their hair is high in tannins, which can poison humans. They are also known to carry tapeworms and other parasites, which makes them hazardous for human consumption. Despite these risks, guinea pigs remain popular in the pet industry as they provide companionship and entertainment.
Reasons Why Guinea Pigs Are Haram
Not Mentioned in the Quran
There is no mention of guinea pigs in the Quran as pets. Contrary to popular belief, this small mammal may not have been considered a pet by early Muslims due to their non-domestication status. However, as guinea pigs are currently not used for hunting or other purposes, they would be halal according to Islamic dietary laws.
So if you are unsure whether or not this animal is permissible under Islamic law, it is best to consult with a Muslim scholar before making a decision.
Not Literal Pigs
There is a common misconception that guinea pigs are equivalent to pigs, belong to the same genus as hamsters, and should not be consumed. Additionally, there is no mention of guinea pigs being eaten or used for medical purposes in the Qur’an or Sunnah (traditions of Prophet Muhammad). Thus, eating them is permissible under Islamic law.
Non-Aggressive
There are many reasons why guinea pigs make great pets. They are not aggressive and have a low occurrence of diseases, making them perfect for first-time pet owners. Additionally, they require very little care – you can leave them alone all day long, and they will be fine.
Furthermore, their scavenging habits are one of the main reasons why some Islamic countries consider guinea pigs to be non-halal animals – because pork products that guinea pigs scavenge from must also be avoided by religious beliefs.
Actions That Are Not Considered Haram
Food
Guinea pigs are not explicitly mentioned in the Qur’an, but Muslims consider them “clean” animals. Some Muslim vegetarians seek to keep guinea pigs as pets, while others do not view them as permissible for consumption. In general, it’s best to consult a qualified Islamic scholar if you have any questions about keeping or eating guinea pigs.
Touching a Guinea Pig
It is not haram to touch a guinea pig. However, touching them could result in contamination and is strictly forbidden by Islamic law. If you must handle a guinea pig, please use gloves and a face mask to avoid contaminating yourself or the animal.
Keeping Guinea Pigs As Pet
Guinea pigs are a popular choice as pets because they’re playful, friendly, and easy to care for. However, some debate whether guinea pigs are halal to keep as pets. Some people believe that eating guinea pig meat is haram, while others maintain it’s permissible under certain circumstances.
If you’re considering keeping a guinea pig as a pet, research the topic first! This is an important decision, and you want to avoid making a mistake that could have serious consequences. If you decide to keep a guinea pig, follow all the proper guidelines established by Islamic law.
For example, you need to ensure that the guinea pig is kept in a clean and sanitary environment and that the guinea pig doesn’t eat anything prohibited by Islamic law, such as pork or alcohol. With proper care, guinea pigs can be a fun addition to your family, but make sure that you consult a qualified Islamic scholar before doing so.
Pets Allowed in Islam
Pets are a popular addition to most homes, but they may not be allowed in Islam. The most common of these exclusions is for animals used for hunting or trapping purposes. Other pets generally not allowed include hedgehogs, ferrets, and camels.
If you have questions about whether your pet is eligible to stay with you, speak to an Islamic scholar or imam. They will be able to provide you with a more in-depth understanding of the religion and its specific rules regarding pets.
Health Risks Associated With Owning a Guinea Pig
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the health risks associated with guinea pigs will vary depending on the individual and the particular guinea pig. However, some potential dangers to consider include respiratory problems, gastrointestinal issues, eye problems, and more.
Always speak to your veterinarian before bringing a new guinea pig into your home, and ensure they are up-to-date on any health concerns related to guinea pigs. As with all pets, guinea pigs require plenty of exercise – provide a play area, hay, and freshwater. And, of course, make sure their cages are always clean!
