Which body parts are emphasized when assessing a meat animal's structural soundness?

When assessing a meat animal's structural soundness, the emphasis on feet and legs is crucial because these body parts directly impact the animal's mobility, stability, and overall health. Strong, well-structured feet and legs ensure that the animal can support its weight effectively, move fluidly, and maintain good posture. Adequate leg strength is vital for an animal's ability to graze, run, or handle the stress of show environments without injury or discomfort.

Structural soundness in feet and legs is often evaluated through their conformation and alignment. This includes assessing the angles of the joints, the shape of the hooves, and how these components work together to bear weight evenly and promote effective movement. Properly aligned legs contribute to the animal's overall performance and longevity, reducing the risk of injuries that can arise from structural defects.

While the other body parts mentioned also play roles in the overall appearance and health of the animal, feet and legs are fundamentally the cornerstone of structural soundness in meat animals.