On which side the animal should lie at the time of slaughter

Question

In which direction should the animal to be slaughtered be laid down, that is, should its head be towards the north or towards the south? For in both cases the animal’s face is towards the qibla, and most often animals are slaughtered in both of these positions. Which of these ways is permissible and correct?

Answer

The face should be towards the qibla, and there is no other restriction: let it be slaughtered in whatever way is easier. With the head towards the south it is easier. Addendum At the time of slaughter the animal should be laid on its left side, because in this position the slaughter is easier, and when it is laid on its left side its head will be towards the south.

Source: Fatawa Mahmudiyya

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