Question:
Is it permissible to perform tests on mice/animals for medical research? Sometimes the mice will have to be tested in painful ways, and it is not unusual to have to kill mice for research purposes.
Answer:
In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.
As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh.
Generally, it is severely disliked to kill insects and animals which are not harmful or do not attack oneself.[1]
Rodents and such animals which cause common harm to oneself or belongings may be exterminated.[2]
Allah Ta`ālā has created the Earth and all of it’s contents for the benefit of man. Allah Ta`ālā states:
“It is He who created for you all of that which is on the earth.” (Qur’ān 2:29)
In other verses, Allah enumerates how animals have been created to benefit man:
“And Allah has made for you from your homes a place of rest and made for you from the hides of the animals tents which you find light on your day of travel and your day of encampment; and from their wool, fur and hair is furnishing and enjoyment for a time.” (Qur`ān 16:80)
“And of the grazing livestock are carriers [of burdens] and those [too] small. Eat of what Allah has provided for you and do not follow the footsteps of Satan. Indeed, he is to you a clear enemy.” (Qur`ān 6:142)
Although exterminating insects and harmless animals generally is not permissible, considering everything has been created for the benefit of man and the necessity of research in today’s ever-developing world, using animals for testing and research purposes is allowed based on necessity.
However, such tests and experiments should be limited to the extent of necessity and should be carried out in a manner which involves least pain.[3] To give any undue or unnecessary pain to animals is impermissible and sinful.[4]
The Prophet ṣalallahu `alayhi wasallam said: “Verily, Allah has prescribed al-Ihsan (i.e. performing an action in a perfect manner) towards everything. Thus, if you kill (anyone for some genuine reason), kill (him/her it) humanely; when you slaughter (an animal), slaughter (it) well. And every one of you should sharpen his blade to give rest to the animal he slaughters.” [Reported by Imam Muslim]
And Allah Ta’ālā Knows Best
Mufti Faraz Adam,
www.darulfiqh.com