Q. In cold climates when a mother gives birth to a sheep, the animal is given a treatment that prevents its growth but ensures its survival. The sheep that is six months old may not look 6 months old. A one year old sheep may look six months old.   What is the ruling for a sheep that looks younger then it is or not as developed as is its age? (Musjid question)

A. If a sheep or goat is one year’s old but looks younger, it can be used to what is termed by many as the Qurbani (animal for sacrifice for the eid-ul-adha).

Should the animal be less than a year old and does not resemble a one year old animal and would not pass as a one year due to its size, height and age to an onlooker, then such an animal — as it would be greatly preferred — should not be used for slaughter. To do so intentionally would be inappropriate.

By contrast, if the animal is six months old but looks like a one year old animal due to its development of age, height, size, then it can be used for sacrifice.

Allah Certainly Knows Best.