Eid-ul-Azha is just a few days away, and many Muslims are preparing for the sacrifice. While some have already purchased their animals, others are planning to buy them soon.
Proper care and feeding of the sacrificial animals are crucial to ensure their health.
Here are some tips on how to take care of your animals before Eid.
Taking care of cows
- Transportation: If the market is far from your home, consider transporting the cow in a pickup van instead of walking. This reduces stress and the risk of accidents.
- Feeding Habits: Learn about the cow's feeding habits from the farmer at the time of purchase. If possible, buy the cow's favourite food to avoid starvation during the journey.
- Feeding Environment: Once home, create a safe and calm environment for the cow to eat. Avoid force-feeding; offer food lovingly.
- Cleaning: Clean the cow thoroughly, especially if it was transported over a long distance. If necessary, give the cow a bath. Provide clean water mixed with a bit of turmeric and salt, as cows often prefer this over cold water.
- Living Conditions: Keep the cow in a clean, cool, and calm place. Avoid damp, dirty environments. Clean up dung, leftover food, and litter daily to prevent pollution.
- Bathing: Bathe the cow on the morning of Eid to remove any dirt and dung.
Taking care of goats
- Feeding Awareness: Understand the goat's dietary needs from the market vendor. Goats tend to eat whatever is available, which can sometimes lead to overeating and health issues.
- Grain Consumption: Feeding too much grain (like rice or wheat) can cause digestive problems. Prioritize feeding the goat more grass than grains.
- Water: Ensure the goat has access to clean and fresh water 3-4 times a day.
- Jackfruit Leaves: Due to their high phosphorus content, jackfruit leaves should be fed sparingly.
- Avoid Stale Food: Stale and rotten food can produce gas and should be avoided to prevent health issues in goats.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your sacrificial animals remain healthy and ready for Eid-ul-Azha.