Dawwwww

I fully agree but we're omnivores and to be healthy some meat should be eaten. Yeah, we eat way WAY too much meat, but that is a different issue.

As soon as lab meat is a proper thing (still not sure about the viability of that one, though) I will finally eat meat and not feel bad about it

I agree with you in principle, but until at which point we have the technological and production capabilities in place to fully feed the planet without the need for livestock and other animal sources of nutrients, the distinction has to exist. We may have gotten to the point of being technologically capable but the human population is very much reliant on animal sources to sustain itself. And so the distinction is necessary. I’m not arguing that it’s right or just or morally correct. But it’s where we are and what is required to continue existing as a species.

And by no means am I saying that those animals we see as livestock don’t deserve to be treated with care and respect while they are alive. I just believe the distinctive categories of pets and livestock are an unfortunate requirement of our current situation.

I find it very weird but it is accepted in some culture to refer to a pet as a child.