What does a well-muscled hog typically indicate?

A well-muscled hog is generally an indicator of healthier meat quality, primarily because muscle development in livestock is a key determinant of yield and the overall texture and flavor of the meat. Muscularity suggests that the animal has had adequate nutrition and good genetics, which contribute positively to the quality of the meat produced. Well-muscled animals also tend to have better meat characteristics such as leanness and optimal marbling, which are preferred in markets.

In the context of the other options, higher fat content is often associated with less muscular animals, where fat deposits may replace muscle tissue. Lower growth rates typically suggest poor health or inadequate nutrition, which would not result in a well-muscled hog. Lastly, describing a well-muscled hog as unfit for market is generally inaccurate, as good muscle development is typically sought after in market animals.