So strong would the need be to sacrifice to God, if that was your belief, that I can imagine people during times of drought and famine still sacrificing animals.

I wonder if a lot of those conversation around obeying, are just because people were being incredibly stupid, and sacrificing during those times of need. Especially, I can imagine a king with control of enormous herds, slaughtering half of them rather than feeding his people.

I have no proof, just musings.

Generally speaking sacrificed animals were still eaten, though certain parts might be burned completely.