Which animals are inspected before slaughter according to veterinary regulations?

The correct answer identifies the diverse range of livestock animals that are subject to inspection before slaughter as per veterinary regulations. This includes cattle, sheep, swine, goats, horses, mules, and other equids. Such inspections are critical in ensuring that the animals are healthy and free from disease, thereby safeguarding public health and maintaining food safety standards.

Comprehensive inspection protocols apply to these animals due to their significant roles in the production of meat, milk, and other animal products. Inspectors assess various factors, including overall health, signs of disease, and proper handling during transport. This robust regulatory oversight helps prevent the spread of zoonotic diseases and ensures that the meat produced meets safety standards.

The options that narrow the inspection coverage to specific groups, such as poultry and swine or only swine and goats, do not reflect the full spectrum of animals that require inspection under veterinary regulations. Similarly, the inclusion of cats, which are not commonly raised for food production, deviates from the core focus on livestock relevant to meat inspections.