Final answer:
The quote implies that the animals on Animal Farm were overworked and underfed, which reflects themes of exploitation and inequality in George Orwell's 'Animal Farm'.
Step-by-step explanation:
The quote “The lower animals on Animal Farm did more work and received less food than any animals in the county” suggests that the animals on Animal Farm were overworked and underfed compared to others in the area.
This statement reflects the theme of exploitation and inequality within George Orwell's novella 'Animal Farm', where despite the initial pursuit of equality after the animals seize control of the farm from the humans, the resultant situation deviates from their ideals.
For instance, the pigs, who assume leadership, end up benefiting the most while the labouring animals toil more without receiving fair compensation, thus contravening the founding principles the animals had established for their society.