What is a muzzle used for in animal handling?

A muzzle is primarily used to prevent an animal from biting. This tool is an essential safety measure in animal handling, especially in situations where the animal may feel threatened, scared, or in pain, making it more likely to exhibit aggressive behavior. By restraining the animal's ability to open its mouth fully, a muzzle helps protect both the handler and the animal from potential harm during examinations, treatments, or transportation.

While the other options may mention actions that can occur in animal handling, they do not adequately describe the primary purpose of a muzzle. For instance, enhancing breathing is not a benefit of a muzzle; rather, it may restrict airflow if improperly fitted. Communication is improved through body language and other non-physical cues, not through the use of a muzzle. Lastly, facilitating feeding is not an appropriate use of a muzzle, as it would hinder the animal's ability to eat properly. Thus, the role of a muzzle as a safety mechanism for preventing bites is clearly the correct and most relevant answer in the context of animal handling.