What is the ruling on induced molting (al-qalsh) in laying hens, which involves withholding water from the birds for three days and feed for one to two weeks, leading to the death of 20% of them, then feeding them very small quantities until their feathers fall out, with this program continuing for two months, for the purpose of restarting the egg production cycle?

Islam has commanded kindness to animals and prohibited harming or torturing them. It has made starving and dehydrating them a grave sin that warrants punishment. This is evidenced by the hadith of the woman who entered Hellfire because of a cat she imprisoned, neither feeding nor watering it, and the hadith of the man who was forgiven because he gave water to a dog panting from thirst.

Indeed, for every wet liver there is a reward, and mistreating animals is forbidden. Owners must also spend on their animals, and it is impermissible to confine an animal without food or drink.

Therefore, withholding food and water from poultry (for molting purposes) to increase profit is a forbidden act, as it constitutes torture of the animal. One must fear Allah and be gracious in seeking sustenance, taking what is lawful and leaving what is forbidden.