Killing of animals is a symptom of barbarian society

As the kshatriyas were given charge of the protection of the citizens, vaishyas were given the charge of the protection of animals. Animals are never meant to be killed. Killing of animals is a symptom of barbarian society. For a human being, agricultural produce, fruits and milk are sufficient and compatible foodstuffs. The human society should give more attention to animal protection.

Srimad Bhagavatam 1.9.26 purport