¯\_(ツ)_/¯ unironically would eat a dog or cat.

Grew up where, if we wanted meat, grandpa would go in the back yard and grab a duck or hen... Meat was scarce and came directly from the animal.

I agree. But I don’t see dogs or cats as special. Though arguably cats (which I dislike) are smarter than a cow. Whales and dolphins are also pretty smart. And apes of course. Most of the animals being breed for eating are particularly dumb. It makes them easier to manage. But they are still just animals.