Sentience refers to the capacity to have subjective experiences and feelings, such as pain, pleasure, and emotions. It is often associated with the ability to perceive the environment and respond to stimuli. Many animals, including mammals and birds, are considered sentient beings due to their complex nervous systems and behaviors. In philosophical discussions, sentience is important for ethical considerations, particularly in debates about animal rights and welfare. The distinction between sentience and mere biological functions raises questions about how we treat animals and the moral implications of our actions towards them.