Keeping a pet hamster

Q:

1. Can I keep a hamster as a pet?

2. If no, is there some specific ruling or ahadith attached to it?

A: Hamsters are from the rodent species and are similar to mice and rats. These creatures are regarded as despicable as mentioned in the Hadith. Hence, these types of creatures should not be kept as pets.

And Allah Ta'ala (الله تعالى) knows best.

 

Answered by:

Mufti Zakaria Makada

Checked & Approved:

Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)