Is raising animals such as crocodiles and snakes prohibited, like raising dogs? What is the ruling on selling them? And is eating snake meat after cooking it prohibited?
The ruling on eating crocodiles and snakes has been previously explained in past fatwas.
As for selling them, it depends on their benefit. If there is a benefit in them, then there is no harm in selling them; otherwise, not. Abu al-Layth mentioned the permissibility of selling snakes if they are beneficial for medicinal purposes.
As for keeping them, the general principle is that it is not permissible to keep snakes, due to the Prophet's (peace be upon him) saying: "Five noxious animals that may be killed in the lawful area and in the Haram: the snake, the speckled crow, the mouse, the rabid dog, and the kite." However, if there is a benefit in keeping them, such as for scientific experiments, and with safety from their harm, then there is no objection to its permissibility. It is not permissible to keep them for corrupt purposes, such as harming others, or if keeping them is mere amusement.
Similarly, keeping crocodiles is permissible if it is for a benefit and interest, and it is prohibited if it is for corrupt purposes.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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