What does Pi mean when he says that the animals in the zoo are les like a prisoner and more like a landholder?

The animals in the zoo at Pondicherry were well cared for
by the Patels.  A prisoner is often ill treated.  A landlord is waited on hand and
foot.  In young Pi's eyes, that is exactly how the animals are treated.  They are not
treated like possessions.  When they decide to move to Canada, Pi's father will not
leave until he has found a good home for each of the
animals, including Richard Parker.