Final answer:
The word or phrase that best matches the word in italics, 'afflicted', is 'distressed'.
Step-by-step explanation:
The word or phrase that best matches the word in italics, 'afflicted', is 'distressed'. In this context, 'afflicted' means that the cow is suffering or in distress. 'Distressed' signifies experiencing pain, anxiety, or discomfort. The other words and phrases ('crippled', 'stubborn', 'fighting') do not accurately describe the condition of the cow, whereas 'distressed' aligns with the meaning of 'afflicted'.
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