Combating stray cats, dogs, birds and home ants

Q: Our company works in the field of combating insects and pests that are harmful to the public health. Sometimes we receive orders to combat wandering cats, dogs, birds, and home ants. What is the ruling on killing the animals mentioned above or driving them away by using expelling substances? Answer us in writing please. May Allah reward you with the best.

A: It is permissible to use substances that drive away the animals, birds, or insects that you have mentioned in the question. However, in case of an inability to do so; it will be permissible for you to kill them by any means other than fire for the Prophet (peace be upon him) said, Five kinds of animals are mischief-doers and can be killed even in the sanctuary of Ka`bah or in Ihram (ritual state for Hajj and `Umrah): They are the crow, the kite, the scorpion, the mouse and the dog known for biting people. (Agreed upon by Imams Al-Bukhari and Muslim). The same ruling applies to (Part No. 26; Page No. 188) other animals, birds, or insects that inflict similar harm.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.