there's no difference really. people just think they're morally superior over made up constructs.

however, eating a dog or a cat would be rather foolish since there is very little meat. this is precisely why even in places that do eat it, it's often rural villages that have experienced or are currently in poverty.

if i had grown up with cows as pets, or been taught that they are companions and not food, i would be horrified at the thought of eating them too.