Is zakat obligatory on the trade of animals such as mules and donkeys?

There is no zakat on mules and donkeys unless they are for trade. If they are for trade, zakat becomes obligatory on them if the conditions are met. This is done by appraising them after one lunar year has passed since their purchase price. If their value reaches the nisaab of gold (85 grams) or silver (595 grams), then one-quarter of one-tenth (2.5%) of their value must be given as zakat.