Solid GEL composition for companion animals

Abstract

The present disclosure provides a palatable composition in a solid gel form for a companion animal, said palatable composition comprising at least from about 90wt% to about 99wt% of broth, said broth comprising at least about 90wt% of water compared to the total weight of the broth, from about 0.1 wt% to about 2wt% of at least one texturing agent, and from about 0.1 wt% to about 4wt% of at least one mineral salt. It further provides a package comprising from about 20ml to about 200ml of said palatable composition, a method for manufacturing said palatable composition, as well as its use for improving the hydration of a companion animal, for providing fast rehydration to a companion animal during effort and in preventing and / or treating a kidney dysfunction.

Description

[0001] SOLID GEL COMPOSITION FOR COMPANION ANIMALS

[0002] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0003] This application claims the benefit of priority to European Patent Application No. 23202717.7 filed on October 10, 2023, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0004] FIELD

[0005] The present disclosure relates to a solid gel composition for companion animals. In particular, it relates to a palatable composition in a solid gel form for a companion animal that contains a large quantity of water and is, therefore, particularly useful to improve hydration or provide fast rehydration to companion animals during or after physical effort.

[0006] BACKGROUND

[0007] Water is vital to a companion animal’s health. It carries important nutrients into and out of the animal’s cells, aiding in their digestion and absorption. It also helps regulate the body’s temperature, lubricates joints, improves cognitive function and cushions the brain and spinal cord. As such, water makes up one-half to two-thirds of the body mass of an adult animal.

[0008] In general, to remain healthy, companion animals, such as dogs and cats, should drink approximately between 50 mL and 100 mL of water per kilogram of body weight each day. While there are many factors that can affect how much a dog will drink, external or occasional circumstances can also come into consideration.

[0009] Indeed, as an example, working dogs or dogs who exercise a lot require more water than dogs who are less active or sedentary. This is due to increased physical exertion and the need to regulate body temperature. Providing an adequate water supply is essential to prevent dehydration and maintain overall health.

[0010] However, in certain circumstances, water intake requirements can be difficult to meet. This can be the case for example during work, exercise, travel or when access to water is restricted.

[0011] Hydration products currently available on the market are usually in the form of liquids or powders to be mixed with water. Such products are rarely palatable to animals and usually require having great amounts of liquid water on hand. Liquid compositions can also be heavy to transport and are not always practical to feed to an animal. Further, liquid compositions usually become unappealing to an animal after having consumed great quantities and are not easily digested in large amounts, in particular in situations where the animals’ metabolisms are already strongly solicited such as during physical activity.

[0012] As such, these products present important drawbacks and do not meet the needs of working and exercising dogs.

[0013] There remains a need for a composition that is able to improve hydration or to provide fast rehydration to a companion animal in diverse situations.

[0014] In particular, there remains a need for a composition that includes large amounts of water that is palatable to a companion animal but also well absorbed and digested by the animal.

[0015] In particular, there remains a need for a composition that includes large amounts of water that can be easily transported and fed directly by hand to a companion animal, in particular in a “on-the-go” situation.

[0016] Further, there remains a need for a composition that can help prevent and / or treat kidney dysfunction in companion animals in need thereof.

[0017] Further, there remains a need for a composition that can help prevent and / or treat constipation and / or regulate Gastrointestinal Transit Time.

[0018] The present disclosure aims at providing a solution to at least one, in particular to all, of the above-mentioned problems.

[0019] SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0020] According to a first aspect, the present disclosure relates to a palatable composition in a solid gel form for a companion animal, said palatable composition including at least, based on the total weight of the composition:

[0021] - from about 90wt% to about 99wt% of broth, said broth including at least about 90wt%, preferentially at least about 93wt%, of water compared to the total weight of the broth,

[0022] - from about 0.1 wt% to about 2wt% of at least one texturing agent, and

[0023] - from about 0.1 wt% to about 4wt% of at least one mineral salt.

[0024] In certain embodiments, the broth comprises at least one palatability enhancer. In certain embodiments, said palatability enhancer is selected from animal derivative, meat derivative, fish derivative, yeast extracts, amino acids, monosaccharides, disaccharides, plant extracts, or a combination thereof. In certain embodiments, said meat derivative is selected from beef, chicken, lamb, poultry, pork, fish, rabbit, game, or a combination thereof. In certain embodiments, said broth is an animal broth, in particular is a chicken broth.

[0025] In certain embodiments, at least one texturing agent is selected from carob gum, carrageenan, xanthan gum, agar-agar, gum Arabic, Konjac, alginate, Guar gum, Locust bean gum, Cassia gum, Starches, Cereal flour, or a combination thereof, in particular, the at least one texturing agent is selected from carob gum, carrageenan, and a combination thereof.

[0026] In certain embodiments, at least one mineral salt is selected from potassium chloride, potassium citrate, sodium chloride, sodium bicarbonate, calcium chloride, dicalcium phosphate, sodium carbonate or a combination thereof, in particular the at least one mineral salt is potassium chloride.

[0027] In certain embodiments, the composition has a caloric density of no more than about 800Kcal / Kg, preferentially no more than about 600Kcal / Kg. In certain embodiments, the composition has a hardness from about 15N to about 40N, preferentially from about 28N to about 40N.

[0028] In certain embodiments, the composition further comprises at least one acidity regulator, in particular at least one acidity regulator selected from citric acid, calcium acetate, fumaric acid, lactic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, or a combination thereof. In certain embodiments, the composition has a pH from about 6.1 to about 7.

[0029] In certain embodiments, the compositions further comprise hydrocolloids, minerals, vitamins, antioxidants, probiotics, colorants, flavors, fat from vegetable origin, or a combination thereof.

[0030] The disclosure further provides a package including from about 20ml to about 200ml, preferentially from about 20ml to about 40 ml for cats and from about 40ml to about 200ml, preferentially from about 60ml to about 150ml, for dogs, of the palatable composition in a solid gel form as disclosed herein. In certain embodiments, the package is selected from a pouch, a packet, a tube, a plastic or metallic tray, a plastic or metallic cup, a metal can or a casing film. In certain embodiments, the package is a sterile package.

[0031] The disclosure also provides a use of palatable composition in a solid gel form as disclosed herein for improving the hydration of a companion animal.

[0032] It is further provided a use of palatable composition in a solid gel form as disclosed herein for providing fast rehydration to a companion animal during effort.

[0033] It is also provided a palatable composition in a solid gel form as disclosed herein for use in preventing and / or treating a kidney dysfunction, in particular a kidney dysfunction selected from a decrease of the urinary volume, an increase of the concentration of CaOx in the urine, an increase of the concentration of MAP in the urine, an improvement of the feces quality, and a combination thereof. It is also provided a palatable composition in a solid gel form as disclosed herein for ameliorating and / or increasing the dilution of the urine so the water can travel through the body and be excreted in the urine.

[0034] Provided in the present disclosure is also a method for manufacturing a palatable composition in a solid gel form for a companion animal including the steps of: a) mixing together, based on the total weight of the composition, at least from about 90wt% to about 99wt% of broth, said broth comprising at least about 90wt%, preferentially at least about 93wt%, of water compared to the total weight of the broth; from about 0.1 wt% to about 2wt% of at least one texturing agent; and from about 0.1 wt% to about 4wt% of at least one mineral salt; thereby obtaining a homogenic mixture.

[0035] DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0036] Fi ure 1 describes the amount of water intake in mL per kg of body weight per day of each of the dogs taking part in the study. For each dog, the daily intake of water was measured before consumption of COMPOSITION A (column on the left) and after consumption of COMPOSITION A (column on the right). For each dog, in the column providing the results of the daily water intake after consumption of COMPOSITION A, the lower part of the column (dark grey) represents the water intake provided by liquid drinking water and the upper part (light grey) represents the water intake provided by COMPOSITION A.

[0037] Fi ure 2 describes the urine volume (in mL) for each of the dogs taking part in the study as well as the average urine volume for the overall group of dogs (Figure 2A). For each dog and for the average, the urine volume was measured before consumption of COMPOSITION A (column on the left) and after consumption of COMPOSITION A (column on the right).

[0038] It further describes the difference in urine volume before and after the consumption of COMPOSITION A (in %) for each of the dogs and for the average of all the dogs (Figure 2B)

[0039] Fi ure 3 shows the specific gravity measured for each of the dogs taking part in the study (Figure 3A). For each dog, the specific gravity was measured before consumption of COMPOSITION A (column on the left) and after consumption of COMPOSITION A (column on the right).

[0040] It also shows the index for the Relative Super Saturation in CaOx (Roberston, et al., Predicting the Crystallization Potential of Urine from Cats and Dogs with Respect to Calcium Oxalate and Magnesium Ammonium Phosphate (Struvite), J. Nutr. 132: 1637S- 1641 S (2002)) in the urine for each of the dogs taking part in the study (Figure 3B). For each dog, the amount of CaOx was measured before consumption of COMPOSITION A (column on the left) and after consumption of COMPOSITION A (column on the right).

[0041] Finally, Figure 3 shows the index of MAP (“Magnesium Ammonium Phosphate” also called “struvite”) in the urine for each of the dogs taking part in the study (Figure 3C). For each dog, the Index of MAP was measured before consumption of COMPOSITION A (column on the left) and after consumption of COMPOSITION A (column on the right).

[0042] Fi ure 4 describes the repartition of the quality of stools for the overall population of dogs taking part in the study (in %) in the following categories: unacceptable / soft, acceptable / soft, optimal / total, acceptable / hard and inacceptable / hard (Figure 4A). In the top graph, the quality of stool was studies before consumption of COMPOSITION A. In the bottom graph, the quality of stools was studies after consumption of COMPOSITION A.

[0043] The figure also shows the number of stools for each of the dogs taking part in the study (Figure 4B). For each dog, the number of stools was counted before consumption of COMPOSITION A (column on the left) and after consumption of COMPOSITION A (column on the right) over the collection period of 2 days.

[0044] Finally, Figure 4 shows the average fecal score for each of the dogs taking part in the study (Figure 4C). For each dog, average fecal score was measured before consumption of COMPOSITION A (column on the left) and after consumption of COMPOSITION A (column on the right).

[0045] DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0046] It has been surprisingly discovered a way to produce a solid water composition that offers distinct advantages, especially for working dogs and dogs practicing sports, thereby addressing a gap that currently remains unmet in the pet food market. By offering a solid water composition, dogs can access water in a more convenient and efficient manner. The solid form minimizes spillage, reduces the risk of water contamination, and allows for easy transportation in particular during outdoor activities where water is not always accessible. It also allows for easy portioning and storage, making it an ideal solution for on-the-go situations. The ingredients can be carefully selected to promote easy digestion, reducing the risk of gastrointestinal issues in dogs. This aspect sets it apart from other conventional pet hydration options, which can contain additives or artificial ingredients.

[0047] According to the general knowledge, no such products currently exist on the market.

[0048] The aim of the present disclosure is to provide a palatable composition in the form of a solid gel which contains a high amount of water and which can be easily fed to an animal “on-the-go”, while providing improved hydration and / or fast rehydration to said animal.

[0049] As demonstrated in the examples below, it is provided by the disclosure a palatable composition in a solid gel form that is solid enough to be easily handled by hand by a petcarer or pet-owner, that is well accepted and that provides a very efficient and fast water intake while also being well digested by the companion animal.

[0050] Further, it is provided a composition that led to an improvement in most of the kidney functions of the animals who have ingested it suggesting that such a composition can be used to prevent and / or treat kidney dysfunctions in a companion animal.

[0051] Definitions

[0052] The terms used in this specification generally have their ordinary meanings in the art, within the context of this disclosure and in the specific context where each term is used. Certain terms are discussed below, or elsewhere in the specification, to provide additional guidance in describing the compositions and methods of the disclosure and how to make and use them.

[0053] Exemplary methods and materials are described below, although methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can also be used in the practice or testing of the present disclosure. Further, unless otherwise required by context, singular terms shall include pluralities and plural terms shall include the singular.

[0054] Units, prefixes, and symbols are denoted in their International System of Units (SI) accepted form. Numeric ranges are inclusive of the numbers defining the range. The headings provided herein are not limitations of the various aspects of the disclosure. Accordingly, the terms defined immediately below are more fully defined by reference to the specification in its entirety.

[0055] All publications and other references mentioned herein are incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0056] As used in the specification and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to “a compound” can include a mixture of at least two compounds. The term “about” or “approximately”, as used herein, means within an acceptable error range for the particular value as determined by one of ordinary skill in the art, which will depend in part on how the value is measured or determined, i.e., the limitations of the measurement system. In general, the term “about” can modify a numerical value above and below the stated value by a variance of, for instance, 10 percent, up or down (higher or lower). In some embodiments, the term indicates deviation from the indicated numerical value by ±15%, ±10%, ±5%, ±4%, ±3%, ±2%, or ±1%.

[0057] As used herein, the terms “comprise”, “comprising”, “include”, “including” or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a composition, a process or a method that comprises a list of elements or ingredients which does not include only those elements or ingredients but can include other elements or ingredients not expressly listed or inherent to such composition, process or method. The term “consisting of’ implies the inclusion of the stated element(s), to the exclusion of any additional elements. The term “consisting essentially of’ implies the inclusion of the stated elements, and possibly other element(s) where the other element(s) do not materially affect the basic and novel character! stic(s) of the disclosure. It is understood that the different embodiments of the disclosure using the term “comprising” or equivalent cover the embodiments where this term is replaced with “consisting of’ or “consisting essentially of’.

[0058] As used herein, a “companion animal” or “pet” can be used interchangeably to refer to domestic animals. In particular, a companion animal can refer to canine and / or feline. In some embodiments, a canine can include a dog and / or a feline can include a cat.

[0059] In the detailed description herein, references to “embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “one embodiment,” “in some embodiments,” or any other variation thereof, indicate that the described embodiment(s) can include a particular feature, ingredient, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment might not necessarily include the particular feature, ingredient, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, ingredient, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is submitted that it is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to affect such feature, ingredient, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments whether or not explicitly described. After reading the description, it will be apparent to one skilled in the relevant art(s) how to implement the disclosure in alternative embodiments.

[0060] As used herein, the terms “palatability” or “palatable” refer to being desirable to the palate or taste. Further, the terms “palatability” or “palatable” as used herein means a relative preference of an animal for one composition compared to another composition which are proposed to the animal at the same time. Palatability refers to the overall willingness of an animal to eat a certain composition. Advantageously, but not necessarily, palatability further refers to the capacity of the eaten composition to satisfy the animal. Whenever an animal shows a preference, for example, for one of two or more compositions, the preferred composition is more "palatable", and has "enhanced palatability". The relative palatability of one composition compared to one or more other compositions can be determined, for example, in side-by-side, free- choice comparisons, e.g., by relative consumption of the compositions, or other appropriate measures of preference indicative of palatability. It can advantageously be determined by a standard testing protocol in which the animal has equal access to both compositions such as a test called "two-bowl test" or "versus test". Such preference can arise from any of the animal's senses, but typically is related to, inter alia, taste, aftertaste, smell, mouth feel and / or texture.

[0061] The term “palatability enhancer” encompasses “olfactive products” and “tastants”.

[0062] The terms “tastant” and "olfactive product" include any compound, composition, formulation, or other material useful for enhancing the attractiveness and palatability of a comestible composition such as a food composition, supplement, medicament, or the like. Thus, such olfactive product can contribute to initial appeal, continued consumption, or repeated presentation aspects of palatability, or any combination thereof. Such product can include liquid and / or powder palatants.

[0063] Tastants relate to those compound(s), composition(s), formulation(s), or other material, which can produce a taste sensation by activating taste receptor cells(TRCs), which can thus include one or more of the five basic tastes (sweet, bitter, umami sour and salty). Such tastants can be organic or inorganic and are generally water-soluble.

[0064] Olfactive products can encompass flavors, chemical molecules, aromas, extracts (e.g. yeast), digests, hydrolysates (e.g. poultry liver), protein ingredients (e.g., poultry meal), carbohydrate food (e.g. rice flour), powders and the like. For example, the olfactive product can include fragrances such as food fragrances, odour masking agents and mixtures thereof, such as flavor compound as well as precursors for the above. Most preferably, the term “olfactive product” relates to compound(s), composition(s), formulation(s), or other material, which can provide an odour or smell at room temperature.

[0065] As used herein the term “providing” includes selling, supplying, administering, or feeding a companion animal. As used herein, the term “weight percent” or “wt%” or “by weight” is meant to refer to the quantity by weight of a constituent / component / ingredient in a composition as a percentage of the total weight of the composition. The specified amount of ingredients / components included in a composition as described herein consists of the amount of ingredients / components that is contained in the total amount of the raw materials which are provided for producing the said composition. As an illustrative example, when it is specified in the present specification “from about 90wt% to about 99wt% of broth”, it means from about 90wt% to about 99wt% of broth compared to the total weight of the composition. When the weight percentage does not refer to the total weight of the composition, it is specifically specified to what the weight percentage refers. For example, the weight percentage can refer to the total weight of the broth.

[0066] As used herein, a “composition in a solid gel form” is a composition that can be easily handled by hand at room temperature (about 25°C). In particular, a composition in a solid gel form is a composition having a gumminess from about ION to about 15N. In particular, composition in a solid gel form is a composition having a hardness from about 15N to about 40N, preferentially from about 28N to about 40N. A composition’ s gumminess and hardness can be measured by any method known to one skilled in the art. A Texture analyzer is a texture measurement system that moves in either an up or down direction to compress or stretch a sample. The travelling arm is fitted with a load cell and records the force response (in Newton) of the sample to the deformation that is imposed on it. Force, Distance and Time data is collected and usually presented as a curve on a graph (force / di stance) which, when analyzed, indicates the texture of the sample. Applying 2 compressions consecutively to a sample of the composition gives a curve with 2 consecutive peaks of force. The maximal force value recorded during the first compression is the hardness (in N) of the sample and the hardness multiplied by the ratio between the area under the cure for the first peak and the area under the cure for the second peak gives the gumminess of the sample (in N). Measures are made at atmospheric pressure at 25°C or 45°C after maturation of the product of minimum 14 days. In a preferred embodiment, before measuring, the sample needs to be removed from the packaging and be cut in a standard size (at least 1cm* 1cm) and shape (square). Any machine or analyzer can be used by the person skilled in the art. In an embodiment, it can be used a Texture Profile Analyzer TA.XTplus (from Stabel Microsystems).

[0067] As used herein, the term “broth” is meant to refer to a composition that is liquid at room temperature (about 25°C), that includes, amongst other elements, water, proteins and fat. In particular, the broth can include nutrients, minerals, vitamins, etc. In particular, the broth is an animal broth.

[0068] In particular, the broth, in particular the animal broth, includes at least about 90wt%, preferentially at least about 93wt%, of water. In an embodiment, the broth includes at least about 1% of proteins. In an embodiment, the broth includes at least about 2% of proteins. In an embodiment, the broth includes at least about 3% of proteins. In an embodiment, the broth includes at least about 3% of fat. In an embodiment, the broth includes at least about 4% of fat. In an embodiment, the broth includes at least about 6% of fat. In an embodiment, the broth includes at least about 1% of proteins and at least about 3% of fat. In an embodiment, said fat can be as animal fat. In an embodiment, the broth, in particular the animal broth, can further include meat juice and / or vegetal extracts.

[0069] The content of water into the broth, also sometimes referred as the moisture, can be determined by any method known by the person skilled in the art. As non-limitative example, it can be determined via a thermogravimetric approach, i.e., by loss on drying, in which the sample is heated and the weight loss due to evaporation of moisture is recorded. Alternatively, near infrared spectroscopy can be used. It works by shining a beam of nearinfrared light onto a sample and measuring how the sample interacts with that light. Different molecular components in the sample (like water, fats, proteins, and carbohydrates) absorb and reflect the NIR light in distinct ways. Each type of molecule has a unique signature in the NIR spectrum. The collected data is then analyzed and by comparing the patterns of absorption and reflection to a pre-established database, the analyzer can determine the water content of the sample.

[0070] In particular, the broth can be animal broth, such as lamb broth, beef broth, fish broth, chicken broth, duck broth, pork broth, rabbit broth, game broth, etc.

[0071] In an embodiment, the broth can be prepared by heating animal bones, animal meat and / or animal offal in water for example at a temperature of about 80°C to about 120°C during from about 2h to about 6h. Alternatively, broth that can be used according to the present disclosure is also commercially available. In an embodiment, the broth can be prepared by using a broth powder or a dehydrated broth that can be rehydrated with an adequate liquid, preferentially water.

[0072] In a preferred embodiment, the broth is prepared prior to its mixing with the other components of the palatable composition, such as without limitation the texturing agent(s), mineral salt(s), palatability enhancer(s), colorant(s), flavor(s), vitamin(s), hydrocolloid(s), antioxidant(s), etc. As used herein, a “texturing agent” is a compound that can alter a composition’s texture. Examples of texturing agents include solubilizing agents, gelling agents and thickeners. In particular, a texturing agent as used herein can help provide the composition a solid gel form.

[0073] As used herein, the term “to prevent” or “preventing”, can also include the reduction of a likelihood of occurrence, or of re-occurrence, of a given condition in an animal.

[0074] As used herein, the term “to treat” or "treating", particularly when used in connection with a disease or condition, means slowing or stopping the development or progression of the disease or condition, the regression of clinical symptoms associated or the partial or total relief of the disease or condition.

[0075] As used herein, a “kidney dysfunction” is meant to refer to an abnormal change in the kidney function, in particular compared to a healthy individual, in particular to a healthy companion animal. Kidney dysfunction includes decrease of the urinary volume, an increase of the urine saturation CaOx and / or MAP, an improvement of the feces quality and a combination thereof, and a combination thereof.

[0076] As used herein, the term “hydration” refers to the constant process of compensating losses of body water such as, for example, staying hydrated during the day. As used herein, the term “rehydration” or "fast rehydration" refers to the specific process when a big amount of body water needs to be replaced at once and fast. Without being bound by any theory, the difference between hydration and rehydration (fast) is a difference in terms of amounts of water and speed of the process.

[0077] It should be understood that every maximum numerical limitation given throughout this specification includes every lower numerical limitation, as if such lower numerical limitations were expressly written herein. Every minimum numerical limitation given throughout this specification will include every higher numerical limitation, as if such higher numerical limitations were expressly written herein. Every numerical range given throughout this specification will include every narrower numerical range that falls within such broader numerical range, as if such narrower numerical ranges were all expressly written herein.

[0078] All lists of items, such as, for example, lists of ingredients, are intended to and should be interpreted as Markush groups. Thus, all lists can be read and interpreted as items “selected from the group consisting of the list of items “and combinations and mixtures thereof.” Palatable composition in solid gel form

[0079] The present disclosure provides a palatable composition in a solid gel form for a companion animal, said palatable composition including at least:

[0080] - from about 90wt% to about 99wt% of broth, said broth including at least about 90wt%, preferentially at least about 93wt%, of water compared to the total weight of the broth,

[0081] - from about 0.1 wt% to about 2wt% of at least one texturing agent, and

[0082] - from about 0.1 wt% to about 4wt% of at least one mineral salt.

[0083] In an embodiment, the palatable composition as disclosed herein can include at least one palatability enhancer. The at least one palatability enhancer can be selected from animal derivative, meat derivative, fish derivative, yeast extracts, amino acids, monosaccharides, disaccharides, plant extracts, or a combination thereof.

[0084] In an embodiment, said meat derivative can be selected from beef, chicken, lamb, poultry, pork, fish, rabbit, game, or a combination thereof.

[0085] According to an embodiment, the broth can be an animal broth. Said animal broth can be selected from lamb broth, beef broth, fish broth, chicken broth, duck broth, pork broth, rabbit broth, game broth, or a combination thereof. In an embodiment, said broth can be chicken broth.

[0086] In an embodiment, a broth, such as an animal broth, suitable according to the present disclosure can have a viscosity from about 50cP to about 3000cP. The broth’s viscosity can be measured by any means known to one skilled in the art. For example, the viscosity can be measured at 25°C using a Brookfield Rheometer DV-II equipped with the appropriate spindle rotating at 20 round per minute.

[0087] Broth, in particular an animal broth, can be prepared according to any method known to one skilled in the art. An example of method to prepare a suitable both is provided above.

[0088] Alternatively, a broth that can be suitable according to the present disclosure is commercially available.

[0089] The broth can be present in the palatable composition from about 90wt% to about 99wt%, said broth including at least about 90wt%, preferentially about 93wt%, of water compared to the total weight of the broth. In an embodiment, the palatable composition according to the present disclosure can include from about 90wt% to about 99wt% of broth. In an embodiment, the palatable composition according to the present disclosure can include from about 93wt% to about 99wt% of broth. In an embodiment, the palatable composition according to the present disclosure can include from about 95wt% to about 98wt% of broth. According to some embodiments, the broth can include at least about 90wt% of water, in particular about 91wt% of water, in particular about 92wt% of water, in particular about 93wt% of water, in particular at least about 94wt% of water, in particular at least about 95wt%, in particular at least about 96wt%, more particularly at least about 97wt% of water compared to the total weight of broth.

[0090] A palatable composition according to the present disclosure can further include at least one texturing agent. In particular the texturing agent can be included in the composition in order to obtain the solid gel form consistency of the composition.

[0091] The palatable composition according to the present disclosure can include from about 0.1 wt% to about 2wt% of at least one texturing agent. In an embodiment, the palatable composition according to the present disclosure can include from about 0.5wt% to about 1.8wt% of at least one texturing agent. In an embodiment, the palatable composition according to the present disclosure can include from about lwt% to about l,6wt% of at least one texturing agent.

[0092] It is particularly important that the amount of texturing agent does not exceed these ranged. Indeed, an excess in the amount of texturing agent can lead to a composition that is not well digested by a companion animal. Further the composition could lose its solid gel form. On the contrary, a lack in the amount of texturing agent could lead to a composition that is not solid enough, in particular to be handled easily by hand.

[0093] In particular, texturing agents used according to the present disclosure can be texturing agents that lose their gelling properties when they are in an acidic environment, in particular at a pH lower than 2.5. Further, texturing agents according to the present disclosure are thermostable at a temperature of up to 45°C, in particular of about 25°C and let 100g of composition in a form of solid gel rejecting no more than 6g of water at 45°C, in particular no more than 2g of water over at 25°C. The rejected water is called Syneresis and collected while opening the packaging containing the solid gel above a sieve of 2mm opening.

[0094] In an embodiment, the at least one texturing agent can be selected from carob gum, carrageenan, xanthan gum, agar-agar, gum Arabic, Konjac, alginate, Guar gum, Locust bean gum, Cassia gum, Starches, Cereal flour, or a combination thereof. In an embodiment, the at least one texturing agent can be selected from carob gum, carrageenan, xanthan, and a combination thereof.

[0095] The palatable composition can include from about 0.1 wt% to about 4wt% of at least one mineral salt. The mineral salt can play a role in maintaining the homeostasis of the composition and in structuring the gel network. The mineral salt used in the present disclosure must be well tolerated and digested by a companion animal.

[0096] In an embodiment, the palatable composition according to the present disclosure can include from about 0.4wt% to about 4wt% of at least one mineral salt. In an embodiment, the palatable composition according to the present disclosure can include from about 0.4wt% to about 3wt% of at least one mineral salt. In an embodiment, the palatable composition according to the present disclosure can include from about 0.5wt% to about 4wt% of at least one mineral salt. In an embodiment, the palatable composition according to the present disclosure can include from about 0.5wt% to about 3wt% of at least one mineral salt. In an embodiment, the palatable composition according to the present disclosure can include from about 0.6wt% to about 4wt% of at least one mineral salt. In an embodiment, the palatable composition according to the present disclosure can include from about 0.6wt% to about 3wt% of at least one mineral salt. In an embodiment, the palatable composition according to the present disclosure can include from about 0.6wt% to about 2wt% of at least one mineral salt. In an embodiment, the palatable composition according to the present disclosure can include from about 0.2wt% to about 3.5wt% of at least one mineral salt. In an embodiment, the palatable composition according to the present disclosure can include from about 0.5wt% to about 3wt% of at least one mineral salt. In an embodiment, the palatable composition according to the disclosure can include from about 0.6wt% to about lwt% of at least one mineral salt.

[0097] In particular, the at least one mineral salt can be selected from potassium chloride, potassium citrate, sodium chloride, sodium bicarbonate, calcium chloride, dicalcium phosphate, sodium carbonate or a combination thereof. In an embodiment, the at least one mineral salt can be potassium chloride.

[0098] The palatable composition of the present disclosure can further include at least one acidity regulator. In an embodiment, said at least one acidity regulator can be selected from citric acid, calcium acetate, fumaric acid, lactic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, or a combination thereof.

[0099] In an embodiment, the present palatable composition should have a pH from about 6.1 to about 7.

[0100] In an embodiment, the palatable composition according to the present disclosure can include from about 0.005wt% to about 0.5wt% of at least one acidity regulator. In an embodiment, the palatable composition according to the present disclosure can include from about 0.01wt% to about 0.4wt% of at least one acidity regulator. In an embodiment, the palatable composition according to the present disclosure can include from about 0.05wt% to about 0.25wt% of at least one acidity regulator.

[0101] In an embodiment, the palatable composition of the present disclosure can have a caloric density of no more than about 800Kcal / Kg, preferentially no more than about 600Kcal / Kg.

[0102] The caloric density can be measured or calculated according to any known method in the art. In particular, the caloric density can be calculated as the gross energy GE (kcal / lOOg) = (5.7 x protein) + (9.4 x fat) + (4.1 x [NFE + CF]) [were NFE is Carbohydrates or inorganic matter and CF is crude fiber [Nutrient requirements of dogs and cats (2006); National Research Council, National Academies Press, Washington DC.

[0103] As previously mentioned, the palatable composition according to the present disclosure can be in a solid gel form.

[0104] According to some embodiment, the composition according to the present disclosure presents specific and unique physical characteristics that are measured when making Texture Profile Analysis by any method known by the person skilled in the art. As non- limitative examples, as more details below, the composition according to the specification presents specific and unique physical properties such as, without limitation, hardness, gumminess and fracturability.

[0105] As an example, a Texture Profile Analysis can be done following the following format in three steps:

[0106] - 1st Compression: The probe descends onto the sample, once contact is detected measurement begins and the probe descends at a defined speed, for a set distance or a set time.

[0107] -1st Withdrawal: Once the target distance / time is reached, the probe ascends away from the sample at a typically faster speed for a set distance or a set time.

[0108] -Wait: The sample is allowed to recover before the process is repeated.

[0109] Hardness corresponds to the resistance to localized plastic deformation, such as an indentation or a scratch, induced mechanically either by pressing or abrasion. It corresponds to the highest peak force measured during first compression.

[0110] Gumminess corresponds to the property of being cohesive and sticky. It corresponds to the multiplication of the hardness with the cohesiveness (Hardness x Cohesiveness). The Cohesiveness corresponds to the area underneath the second compression curve divided by the area underneath the first compression curve.

[0111] Fracturability is the tendency of a material to fracture, crumble, crack, shatter or fail upon the application of a relatively small amount of force or impact. It corresponds to the first significant peak in first compression.

[0112] According to an embodiment, the composition according to the present disclosure can have a hardness from about 15N to about 40N. According to an embodiment, the composition according to the present disclosure can have a hardness from about 20N to about 40N. According to an embodiment, the composition according to the present disclosure can have a hardness from about 25N to about 40N. Therefore, according to an embodiment, the composition according to the present disclosure can have a hardness from about 28N to about 40N. In an embodiment, the composition according to the present disclosure can have a gumminess from about ION to about 15N.

[0113] In an embodiment, the composition according to the present disclosure can have a fracturability from about ION to about 3 ON. In an embodiment, the composition according to the present disclosure can have a fracturability from about 15N to about 25N. In an embodiment, the composition according to the present disclosure can have a fracturability from about 17N to about 23N.

[0114] Methods for measuring the hardness, fracturability and gumminess of a composition are known in the art. Examples of said methods are provided above.

[0115] A palatable composition according to the present disclosure can further include one or more additional ingredients. In an embodiment, a composition according to the present disclosure can further include hydrocolloids, minerals, vitamins, antioxidants, probiotics, colorants, flavors, fat from vegetable origin, or a combination thereof.

[0116] Taking into account his general knowledge, the person skilled in the art will make sure that the additional ingredients are selected so that their individual properties and their amounts will not interfere with the composition’s properties or the composition’s solid gel form.

[0117] Package

[0118] In another aspect, the present disclosure further relates to a package including from about 20ml to about 200ml, preferentially from about 20ml to about 40ml for cats and from about 40ml to about 200ml, preferentially from about 50 ml or about 60ml to about 150ml, for dogs, of the palatable composition in as solid gel form as disclosed herein.

[0119] In an embodiment, the package can be selected from a pouch, a packet, a tube, a plastic or metallic tray, a plastic or metallic cup, a metal can or a casing film.

[0120] In an embodiment, the package can be a sterile package.

[0121] Uses and Methods According to another aspect, the present disclosure provides a use of a palatable composition in the form of a solid gel as disclosed herein for improving the hydration of a companion animal. The present disclosure also provides a use of a palatable composition in the form of a solid gel as disclosed herein for providing fast rehydration to a companion animal during effort.

[0122] In some embodiments, in these uses, the companion animal can be a healthy animal. In some embodiments, the companion animal is not an animal that is affected by a disease or a condition which requires rehydration. In some embodiments, provided herein is a use of a palatable composition in the form of a solid gel as disclosed herein for improving the hydration of a companion animal which is not affected with a kidney dysfunction, which encompasses a kidney disease, thus including a chronic kidney disease.

[0123] In an embodiment, the companion animal can be a companion animal who is practicing a sport or has been practicing a sport or the companion animal can be a working companion animal. In an embodiment, the companion animal can be a dog. In an embodiment, the companion animal can be a cat.

[0124] According to another aspect, the disclosure further provides a palatable composition in a solid gel form as disclosed herein for use in preventing and / or treating a kidney dysfunction in a companion animal in need thereof, such as a kidney dysfunction selected from a decrease of the urinary volume, an increase of the concentration of CaOx in the urine, an increase of the concentration of MAP in the urine, an improvement of the feces quality, and a combination thereof.

[0125] A companion animal in need thereof can be a companion animal who is suffering from at least one kidney dysfunction, such as a kidney disease, especially a chronic kidney disease. In some embodiments, a kidney dysfunction can be detected when compared with the kidney function of a healthy companion animal. In an embodiment, the companion animal can be a dog. In an embodiment, the companion animal can be a cat.

[0126] The present disclosure also relates to a method for improving the hydration of a companion animal including at least a step of administering to said companion animal a palatable composition in the form of a solid gel as disclosed herein.

[0127] The disclosure also relates to a method for providing fast rehydration to a companion animal during effort including at least a step of administering to said companion animal a palatable composition in the form of a solid gel as disclosed herein.

[0128] The disclosure further provides a method for preventing and / or treating a kidney dysfunction in a companion animal in need thereof, including at least a step of administering to said companion animal a palatable composition in a solid gel form as disclosed herein.

[0129] In particular, the kidney dysfunction is selected from a decrease of the urinary volume, an increase of the concentration of CaOx in the urine, an increase of the concentration of MAP in the urine, an improvement of the feces quality, and a combination thereof.

[0130] Manufacturing methods

[0131] The present disclosure further provides a method for manufacturing a palatable composition in a solid gel form for a companion animal including the steps of: a) mixing together at least from about 90wt% to about 99wt% of broth, said broth including at least about 90wt%, preferentially at least about 93wt%, of water compared to the total weight of the broth; from about 0.1 wt% to about 2wt% of at least one texturing agent; and from about 0.1 wt% to about 4wt% of at least one mineral salt, thereby obtaining a homogenic mixture.

[0132] The palatable composition in a solid gel form can further contain one or more additional ingredients as discussed further above.

[0133] In a particular embodiment, the method can further include the steps of: b) heating the homogenic mixture of step a), preferentially to about 45°C or more; and c) cooling the homogenic mixture of step c), preferentially to a temperature of about 30°C or less.

[0134] The present disclosure further provides a method for manufacturing a package including a palatable composition in a solid gel form for a companion animal, said method including the steps of: a) mixing together at least from about 90wt% to about 99wt% of broth, said broth including at least about 90wt%, preferentially at least about 93wt%, of water compared to the total weight of the broth; from about 0.1 wt% to about 2wt% of at least one texturing agent; and from about 0.1 wt% to about 4wt% of at least one mineral salt, thereby obtaining a homogenic mixture, b) dosing and filling the homogenic mixture of step a) into a package, and c) sealing the package.

[0135] The palatable composition in a solid gel form can further contain one or more additional ingredients as discussed further above.

[0136] In a particular embodiment, the method can further include the steps of: d) sterilizing the sealed package of step c), preferentially at a temperature of about 120°C or more, and e) cooling the sterilized package of step d) to a temperature of about 30°C or less.

[0137] EXAMPLES

[0138] The presently disclosed subject matter will be better understood by reference to the following Examples, which are provided as exemplary of the invention, and not by way of limitation.

[0139] Preparation of a palatable composition in solid gel form

[0140] In order to prepare a palatable composition according to the present disclosure (COMPOSITION A), the following ingredients were mixed together according to the information provided in the table below until a homogenic mixture is obtained:

[0141] Table 1

[0142] If necessary, the pH of the composition was corrected to 6.8 using a pH regulator.

[0143] The homogenic mixture was poured into a bowl which was sealed and heated to about 121 °C for 41 min before being cool down to a temperature of about 30°C in about 30min.

[0144] Three comparative compositions were also prepared under the same conditions, except that:

[0145] - the amount of mineral salt (KC1) was of less than 0.2wt% (COMPOSITION B)

[0146] - the broth was replaced by poultry fat (COMPOSITION C)

[0147] - the broth was replaced by a mixture PAR and Pisces (COMPOSTION D).

[0148] The syneresis, the hardness and the gumminess of each of the compositions was measured according to the protocols described above in the definition section of the present disclosure. Measures should be done after a maturation of minimum 14 days at 25°C and eventually with a pre conditioning of 48h at 45°C before the measure.

[0149] The results for each of the compositions were as follows: Table 2

[0150] These results show that COMPOSITION A which is a composition according to the disclosure is a solid gel composition which has a hardness and gumminess which make it possible to easily manipulate the composition by hand.

[0151] On the contrary, COMPOSITION B, outside of the disclosure, is a weak gel that is still moist and slippery, even after the drying period. The composition exudes water. Further, its hardness and gumminess make it difficult to manipulate by hand and it fractures more easily than COMPOSITION A.

[0152] Preference / first choice test:

[0153] 31 dogs were offered 50 + / - 0.5g of each of the COMPOSITIONS A or C at the same time during 2 exposures. Measures are the first choice (which product does the dog eat first) and the preference (which product was preferred by the dogs). Results are provided in Table 3 below:

[0154] Table 3

[0155] Acceptability test:

[0156] The acceptability of COMPOSITIONS A, C and D prepared as described above, was also tested. Two groups of dogs were included in this test: a first group composed of 9 mini dogs and a second group composed of 9 maxi dogs. Mini dogs are dogs that have a weight of about 1 to about 10 kg and maxi dogs are dogs that have a weight of at least 26 kg.

[0157] The mini dogs were fed 3 trays containing 100g of COMPOSITION per day. The maxi dogs were fed 5 trays containing 100g of COMPOSITION per day.

[0158] The composition is considered acceptable when the animal finishes the whole ratio that is provided to them for each tray. Acceptability = % of dogs who finished the ration (3 trays for mini / 5 trays for maxi)] The acceptability (%) results are provided in Table 4 below:

[0159] Table 4

[0160] Therefore, it is clear from these results that the composition in solid gel form is largely accepted by the dogs and can therefore be considered palatable. Feces quality and urinary tests:

[0161] In order to study the feces quality and urinary parameters of COMPOSITION A, several different tests were run. A group of 8 dogs was first fed dry food and ad libitum water for two days.

[0162] On the third day, 25 g per kg of body weight of COMPOSITION A was added to the dogs’ diet for another seven days during the so-called adaptation phase. An overview of the feeding regime is given in Table 5 below.

[0163] Table 5

[0164] * a minimum of 3 days is required for faeces collection. There is the option to collect faeces for an additional day when combining with a digestibility trial and / or UTH study. This collection is not mandatory.

[0165] COMPOSITION A was first offered in the morning before the dry food for 30 min. After 30 minutes, COMPOSITION A was removed, and the leftovers were stored in the fridge. The dry food was offered with a bowl of water. In the afternoon, the leftovers of COMPOSITION A were offered again.

[0166] At the end of the seven-day adaptation period (before and after intake of COMPOSITION A), urine and feces collection were done, and the following measurements were taken.

[0167] Water intake

[0168] The water intake of each dog was measured in mL. The water intake corresponds to the amount of water offered before meal recorded, amount of water left at the end of the meal recorded, subtracting the latter from the first gives the water intake. The results are provided in Figure 1. These results show that each dog had a clear increase in their water intake after they started consuming COMPOSITION A. The inventors observed that the animals tended to drink less water when COMPOSITION A was included in their diet but that overall their water intake increased with the consumption of COMPOSITION A.

[0169] On average, the inventors observed an increase of 35% of the volume of water intake for the group of dogs.

[0170] Urine volume

[0171] The urine volume for each dog was measured in mL. Urine should always be collected into brown glass bottles (plastic containers can leach minerals into the urine). Before each collection, lOmL of a 1% thymol solution in mineral oil (quantity based on a 500mL glass bottle) will be used to prevent bacterial growth and contact with air. Collection bottles were checked at least 3 times a day. Checking several times a day was done to measure the pH, SG and volume of each single urination. To measure urine volume, the entire collection sample (urine / thymol / mineral oil) can be transferred to a volumetric cylinder (remember to read at the bottom of the thymol / mineral oil layer). After each check, the collection bottle was emptied and lOmL of a 1% thymol solution in mineral oil was added again. The results are provided in Figure 2. These results show that every dog had an increase in their urine volume after the consumption of COMPOSITION A (Figure 2A). In particular, it was observed that overall, there was a significant increase of the volume of urine due to the consumption of COMPOSITION A with an average increase of 59% (Figure 2B).

[0172] Kidney function

[0173] The specific gravity (SG) was also measured on each of the dogs’ urine. (SG is a measure of the concentration of solutes in the urine. It measures the ratio of urine density compared with water density and provides information on the kidney ’ s ability to concentrate urine; source https: / / emedicine.medscape.com / article / 2090711-overview). The urine was collected as described above. After measuring the urine volume, the urine should be transferred to a 'separator bottle'. The top should be secured onto the separator bottle and gently squeezed to produce an oil free urine sample in the collecting vessel (which is part of the bottle top). SG can be measured using either a refractometer or a handheld digital densitometer.

[0174] On top, the amount of CaOx (calcium oxalate) and the amount of MAP (Magnesium Ammonium Phosphate) were measured. The cumulated daily urine was collected into a 500 ml bottle. In order to avoid microbial contamination, prior to the first urine, one drop of Chlorhexidine 20% (or 1 ml 2%) was filled in the storage flask. Pooled urine samples per dog were sent to a certified Mars laboratory for the following mineral analyses: calcium, phosphorous, sodium, potassium, magnesium, ammonium, chloride, phosphate, oxalate, citrate, sulfate, uric acid and creatinine. From these results RSS (Relative Super Saturation) MAP (Magnesium Ammonium Phosphate) and RSS CaOx (Calcium Oxalate) was calculated using Robertson Method (Robertson et al., 2002). The principle of the calculation was as follows:

[0175] Supersat software was used for RSS calculations.

[0176] The results are provided in Figure 3. These results show that for each dog, the specific gravity (Figure 3A), the amount of CaOx (Figure 3B) and the amount of MAP (Figure 3C) are reduced after the animal has consumed CONMPOSITION A. Overall, the average reduction of specific gravity is 0,7%, the average reduction of the amount of CaOx is 48% and the average reduction of the amount of MAP is of 72%.

[0177] Analysis of faeces

[0178] Finally, the quality of each of the dogs’ faeces, the number of stools and the average fecal score was measured.

[0179] Fecal scoring system for dogs (® Royal Canin, 2017) on a 5-scale: Score 1 : Hard, dry, crumbly stool (crumbs)

[0180] Score 2: Dry, very clearly defined cracks

[0181] Score 2.5: Clearly defined shape with visible cracks (optimal)

[0182] Score 3 : Moist stool starting to lose shape and cracks

[0183] Score 3.5: Moist stool with no cracks

[0184] Score 4: Moist stool with little consistency and no real shape

[0185] Score 4.5: Liquid stool with minimal consistency

[0186] Score 5 : Entirely liquid stool (no texture)

[0187] The results are provided in Figure 4. These results show that overall, there was a decrease in the amount of inacceptable stools for the group of dogs, whether it can be inacceptable soft or unacceptable hard stools, after consumption of COMPOSITION A (Figure 4A). Further, the results show that the number of stools (Figure 4B) and the average fecal score (Figure 4C) for each dog remains more or less the same before and after consumption of COMPOSITION A, which demonstrates that COMPOSITION A does not have an negative impact of the dogs’ digestibility.

[0188] Overall, these results show that the consumption of COMPOSITION A by the animals constitutes a valuable source of water which is palatable but also well ingested by the animal. In fact, the results on the digestibility of the composition presented above show that the consumption of a palatable composition in solid gel form according to the disclosure has particularly interesting properties on the kidney function of the animals and as such could be used in the prevention and / or treatment of animals suffering from kidney dysfunctions.

[0189] * * *

[0190] Although the presently disclosed subject matter and its advantages have been described in detail, it should be understood that various changes, substitutions and alterations can be made herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. Moreover, the scope of the present application is not intended to be limited to the particular embodiments of the process, machine, manufacture, composition of matter, means, methods and steps described in the specification. As one of ordinary skill in the art will readily appreciate from the disclosure of the presently disclosed subject matter, processes, machines, manufacture, compositions of matter, means, methods, or steps, presently existing or later to be developed that perform substantially the same function or achieve substantially the same result as the corresponding embodiments described herein can be utilized according to the presently disclosed subject matter. Accordingly, the appended claims are intended to include within their scope such processes, machines, manufacture, compositions of matter, means, methods, or steps.

[0191] Patents, patent applications, publications, product descriptions and protocols are cited throughout this application the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties for all purposes.

[0192] Bibliographical references

[0193] 1. Robertson, et al., Predicting the Crystallization Potential of Urine from Cats and Dogs with Respect to Calcium Oxalate and Magnesium Ammonium Phosphate (Struvite), J. Nutr. 132: 1637S-1641S (2002).

[0194] 2. Nutrient requirements of dogs and cats (2006); National Research Council, National Academies Press, Washington DC.

[0195] 3. Ghadban, R., “Specific Gravity”, May 12, 2022, available at: emedicine, medscape, com / arti cl e / 2090711 -overview.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A palatable composition in a solid gel form for a companion animal, said palatable composition comprising at least, based on the total weight of the composition:- from about 90wt% to about 99wt% of broth, said broth comprising at least about 90wt%, preferentially at least about 93wt%, of water compared to the total weight of the broth,- from about 0.1 wt% to about 2wt% of at least one texturing agent, and- from about 0.1 wt% to about 4wt% of at least one mineral salt.

2. The composition according to claim 1, wherein said broth comprises at least one palatability enhancer.

3. The composition according to claim 2, wherein said palatability enhancer is selected from animal derivative, meat derivative, fish derivative, yeast extracts, amino acids, monosaccharides, disaccharides, plant extracts, or a combination thereof.

4. The composition according to claim 3, wherein said meat derivative is selected from beef, chicken, lamb, poultry, pork, fish, rabbit, game, or a combination thereof.

5. The composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said broth is an animal broth, in particular is a chicken broth.

6. The composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said at least one texturing agent is selected from carob gum, carrageenan, xanthan gum, agar-agar, gum Arabic, Konjac, alginate, Guar gum, Locust bean gum, Cassia gum, Starches, Cereal flour, or a combination thereof, in particular, the at least one texturing agent is selected from carob gum, carrageenan, and a combination thereof.

7. The composition according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the said at least one mineral salt is selected from potassium chloride, potassium citrate, sodium chloride, sodium bicarbonate, calcium chloride, dicalcium phosphate, sodium carbonate or a combination thereof, in particular the at least one mineral salt is potassium chloride.

8. The composition according to any one of the preceding claims, having a caloric densityof no more than about 800Kcal / Kg, preferentially no more than about 600Kcal / Kg.

9. The composition according to any one of the preceding claims, having a hardness from about 15N to about 40N, preferentially from about 28N to about 40N.

10. The composition according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least one acidity regulator, in particular at least one acidity regulator selected from citric acid, calcium acetate, fumaric acid, lactic acid, malic acid, tartaric acid, or a combination thereof.

11. The composition according to any one of the preceding claims, having a pH from about 6.1 to about 7.

12. The composition according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising hydrocolloids, minerals, vitamins, antioxidants, probiotics, colorants, flavors, fat from vegetable origin, or a combination thereof.

13. A package comprising from about 20ml to about 200ml, preferentially from about 20ml to about 40 ml for cats and from about 60ml to about 150ml for dogs, of the palatable composition in a solid gel form according to any one of the claims 1 to 12.

14. The package according to claim 13, selected from a pouch, a packet, a tube, a plastic or metallic tray, a plastic or metallic cup, a metal can or a casing film.

15. The package according to claim 13 or 14, wherein said package is a sterile package.

16. Use of the composition according to any one of the claims 1 to 12, for improving the hydration of a companion animal.

17. Use of the composition according to any one of the claims 1 to 12 for providing fast rehydration to a companion animal during effort.

18. The composition according to any one of the claims 1 to 12 for use in preventing and / or treating a kidney dysfunction, in particular a kidney dysfunction selected from a decreaseof the urinary volume, an increase of the concentration of CaOx in the urine, an increase of the concentration of MAP in the urine, an improvement of the feces quality and a combination thereof.

19. A method for manufacturing a palatable composition in a solid gel form for a companion animal comprising the step of: a) mixing together, total weight of the composition, at least from about 90wt% to about 99wt% of broth, said broth comprising at least about 90wt% of water compared to the total weight of the broth; from about 0.1 wt% to about 2wt% of at least one texturing agent; and from about 0.1 wt% to about 4wt% of at least one mineral salt; thereby obtaining a homogenic mixture.

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