Which term describes animals that are bred for muscle or meat production?

The term that describes animals bred for muscle or meat production is "livestock." This classification includes various domesticated animals that are raised specifically for human consumption and agricultural purposes. Livestock typically encompasses species such as cattle, pigs, sheep, and goats, which have been selectively bred over generations to enhance desirable traits such as growth rate, muscle mass, and overall meat quality.

The other terms do not accurately reflect this purpose. Pets refer to domesticated animals kept primarily for companionship rather than for production. Wildlife pertains to undomesticated animals living in natural environments and are not raised for food or agricultural purposes. Companions, while similar to pets, also denote animals that provide friendship or emotional support without the agricultural context of breeding for meat or muscle. Thus, "livestock" is the most appropriate term in relation to animals bred for production.