Texas FFA Livestock Judging PracticeTest

Which type of animal is primarily raised for its meat in livestock production?

1. Dairy cattle

2. Beef cattle

3. Sheep

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: All of the above

In livestock production, various animals can be raised for meat, but the choice 'All of the above' accurately encompasses all the options provided: dairy cattle, beef cattle, and sheep. Dairy cattle are primarily bred for milk production, but they can also be processed for meat once their milk production declines or when they reach the end of their productive lives. Therefore, while their primary use is for milk, they are not exclusively a meat source. Beef cattle are specifically raised for their meat, which is their primary purpose. These animals are bred and managed directly with the objective of producing high-quality beef products. This makes beef cattle the most straightforward example of animals raised primarily for meat. Sheep can also serve dual purposes, with some breeds raised specifically for meat (lamb and mutton) while others may be raised for wool or milk. However, it is common practice in livestock production for sheep to be raised primarily for their meat in many production systems. Given that all these types of animals can be involved in meat production, selecting 'All of the above' acknowledges that each plays a role in supplying meat, though the extent of meat production varies among them.