Pet food composition

Abstract

Described herein are pet food compositions comprising from about 10% to about 50% by weight of a protein; from about 10 wt% to about 40 wt% fat; up to about 20% by weight of fibers; and a moisture content of from about 6 wt% to about 10 wt%; wherein the weight percentages are based on the total weight of the pet food composition; wherein the pet food composition has a peak force of from about 5 kg to about 11 kg. Also described herein are methods of making and using these compositions.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 338,721, filed on May 5, 2022, entitled “Pet Food Compositions,” the contents of which are hereby incorporated herein in their entirety for all purposes. Background Art

[0003] As reported by the Animal Cancer Foundation, there are approximately 65 million dogs and approximately 32 million cats in the United States. Of these, approximately 6 million new cancer diagnoses occur in dogs each year, and a similar number occur in cats. Cancers in the companion animal population are spontaneous diseases, often similar to those seen in humans; some examples include non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, prostate cancer, head and neck cancer, breast cancer, melanoma, soft tissue sarcoma, and osteosarcoma (see http: / / www.acfoundation.org). Therefore, cancer remains a serious problem for pet owners.

[0004] The acceptance of a pet to a food is determined by the sensory properties of the food, such as aroma, texture, and taste. A pet may initially be attracted to a food primarily based on its smell; however, texture plays a vital role in palatability. The texture of dry food kibbles is a key attribute that dogs and cats like the food. Regardless of its smell, an unpleasant or unattractive texture may cause a pet to ignore the food, and ultimately cause the pet to miss out on important nutrients. A texture that a pet likes can make a food that they would otherwise ignore based on its taste or smell more attractive, and therefore make them more likely to eat the food.

[0005] It may be a problem for pet parents to let pets (especially sick pets) eat. For pets with cancer, this is especially a problem. Cancer itself may have a negative impact on their desire to eat or ability to eat. Pets with tumors in the oral cavity, face, head, neck, stomach, intestines, anal glands may feel that eating is painful. In other cases, pets with cancer may be receiving treatment such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy or surgery, which affects their appetite regulation, causes nausea, or reduces their taste or smell, thereby affecting the desire to eat or producing side effects that interfere with eating and digestion. In addition, pet owners and veterinarians believe that appetite and eating enthusiasm are key indicators of the quality of life status of their pets. Usually when pets with cancer eat badly, this implies that the quality of life of pet owners' pets is declining, and in order not to prolong the pain of their pets, they may choose euthanasia. However, if pets with cancer eat well and seem to enjoy their meals, pet owners believe that the quality of life of their pets is still good, and think that their pets are not painful.

[0006] Sick pets may still eat, they just may not eat as much as they did before they became ill. Because pet food is complete and balanced, it provides all nutrients, including calories, protein, fatty acids, vitamins and minerals. If pets eat some food but not enough, they may eat less of the key nutrients they need, and if this happens frequently, these pets may suffer from chronic malnutrition, which may affect their overall health, quality of life, hinder recovery, or even shorten survival time. Calorie malnutrition may cause weight loss, body fat and muscle loss. Too little protein may cause muscle atrophy, affect immune system function, and other body organ systems. Fatty acid malnutrition may cause skin lesions, coat problems and a poor immune system. Inadequate fiber consumption may cause digestive disorders and diarrhea. Vitamin and mineral malnutrition may cause problems such as bone demineralization, lethargy and weakness.

[0007] Therefore, there is a need for pet foods that are attractive to sick pets to eat while providing essential nutrients in concentrated food amounts so the pet consumes enough food and nutrients to prevent chronic malnutrition. There are technical challenges in making pet foods with palatability attributes, high calorie and nutrient density that are highly appealing to sick pets.

[0008] Formulating a product that is high in fat, high in protein, and high in non-structure forming fiber that is high in calories and dense is a technical challenge. High fat and high protein inclusion levels typically produce high density kibbles that do not readily absorb fat, thereby becoming a greasy, unappealing kibble that sick pets may not like.

[0009] Certain embodiments of the present invention are designed to overcome these challenges and address the above-mentioned needs. Summary of the invention

[0010] Summary of the invention is only intended to introduce a brief overview of some aspects of one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Other applicable fields of the present disclosure will become apparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. Summary of the invention is not an exhaustive overview, nor is it intended to identify the key elements or important elements of this teaching, nor is it intended to delimit the scope of the present disclosure. On the contrary, its purpose is only to present one or more concepts in a simplified form as a preface to the following detailed description.

[0011] In some embodiments, the present invention provides a pet food composition comprising: from about 10% to about 50% by weight protein; from about 10% to about 40% by weight fat; and up to about 20% by weight fiber; wherein the pet food composition has a peak force of from about 5 kg to about 11 kg.

[0012] Other embodiments of the present invention provide methods for increasing caloric intake; increasing body weight; improving quality of life; reducing atrophy (e.g., muscle atrophy); enhancing immunity; and / or reducing bone demineralization in companion animals, the method comprising administering any of the pet food compositions described herein to a companion animal in need thereof.

[0013] Any of the pet food compositions described herein are useful in a companion animal in need thereof for: increasing caloric intake; increasing body weight; improving quality of life; reducing atrophy (eg, muscle wasting); enhancing immunity; and / or reducing bone demineralization. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0014] For the purpose of illustration, the principle of the present invention is described by reference to multiple exemplary embodiments of the present invention. Although certain embodiments of the present invention are specifically described herein, it will be readily appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art that the same principles are equally applicable and can be used for other compositions and methods. Before describing the disclosed embodiments of the present invention in detail, it should be understood that the application of the present invention is not necessarily limited to the details of any particular embodiment disclosed. The terms used herein are for the purpose of description rather than for the purpose of limitation.

[0015] As used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include plural references unless the context indicates otherwise. The singular form of any class of components refers not only to one component within that class, but also to mixtures of these components. The terms "a" (or "a"), "one / kind or more / kind", and "at least one / kind" may be used interchangeably herein. The terms "comprising", "including", and "having" may be used interchangeably. The term "including" should be interpreted as "including, but not limited to". The term "including" should be interpreted as "including, but not limited to".

[0016] As used throughout, range is used as a shorthand for describing each value and each value in the range. Any value in the range can be selected as the endpoint of the range. Therefore, range 1 to 5 specifically includes 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5, and subranges such as 2 to 5, 3 to 5, 2 to 3, 2 to 4, 1 to 4, etc. When it comes to a number, the term "about" means any number within 10% of the range of the number. For example, the phrase "about 2.0 wt %" refers to a number between 1.8 wt % and 2.2 wt % and includes 1.8 wt % and 2.2 wt %.

[0017] All references cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. In the event of a conflict in a definition in the present disclosure and that of a cited reference, the present disclosure controls.

[0018] Unless otherwise indicated, abbreviations and symbols as used herein take their ordinary meanings. The abbreviation "% by weight" means the weight percentage relative to the pet food composition. The symbol "°" refers to degrees, such as degrees of temperature or degrees of angle. The symbols "h", "min", "mL", "nm", "μm" mean hours, minutes, milliliters, nanometers and micrometers, respectively. The abbreviation "UV-VIS" as referring to a spectrometer or spectroscopy means ultraviolet-visible. The abbreviation "rpm" means revolutions per minute.

[0019] Any member of a species list used to exemplify or define a genus may be mutually distinct from, overlap with, be a subset of, be equivalent to, be nearly identical to, or be identical to any other member of the species list. Furthermore, unless explicitly stated, such as when listing Markush groups, a species list defining or exemplifying a genus is open-ended and gives the possibility that there may be other species that define or exemplify the genus as well as or better than any other species listed.

[0020] All components and elements that are positively set forth in the present disclosure may be negatively excluded from the claims. In other words, the pet food composition of the present disclosure may be free of or substantially free of all components and elements that are positively listed throughout the present disclosure. In some cases, the pet food composition of the present disclosure may be substantially free of the ingredients or compounds described herein in a non-incident amount. The non-incident amount of an ingredient or compound is the amount of an ingredient or compound that is added to the pet food composition alone. For example, the pet food composition may be substantially free of a non-incident amount of a certain ingredient or compound, but such an ingredient or compound may exist as a part of a raw material (included as a blend of two or more compounds). Unless otherwise defined or described herein, substantially free of generally refers to an amount based on the total weight of the pet food composition based on dry matter of about 2% by weight or less, about 1.5% by weight or less, about 1% by weight or less, about 0.5% by weight or less, about 0.1% by weight or less, or about 0.05% by weight or less, or about 0.01% by weight or less of ingredients or compounds.

[0021] As used herein, the term "companion animal" refers to an animal of any species that is kept as a pet by a caregiver, or any animal of various species that has been widely domesticated as a pet, including dogs (Canis familiaris) and cats (Felis domesticus), regardless of whether the individual animal is kept solely for companionship or in part for companionship. Thus, companion animals include, for example, but not limited to, working dogs, farm cats kept for rodent control, pet cats, pet dogs, ferrets, birds, reptiles, rabbits, and fish. In some embodiments, the companion animal is selected from canines and felines. In other embodiments, the companion animal is a canine.

[0022] As used herein, the term "soluble fiber" means one or more fibers that are readily fermented in the large intestine, such as beet pulp, guar gum, chicory root, psyllium, pectin, blueberry, cranberry, pumpkin, apple, oat, legume, citrus, or barley.

[0023] In some embodiments, the composition of the present invention may include an "insoluble fiber" source. In some embodiments, insoluble fiber can be provided by various sources, including any one of cellulose, whole wheat products, oats, corn bran, linseed, grapes, celery, green beans, cauliflower, potato peels, fruit peels, vegetable peels, peanut shells, and soy fiber. The pet food composition may include cellulose, hemicellulose, or a combination thereof. In at least one preferred embodiment, the pet food composition includes cellulose and hemicellulose.

[0024] In the case where the composition is an animal food, vitamins and minerals may be included in amounts required to avoid deficiencies and maintain health. These amounts are readily available in the art. The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) provides recommended amounts of such ingredients for dogs and cats. See Association of American Feed Control Officials. Official Publications, pp. 126-140 (2003).

[0025] Vitamins used as food additives include, for example, vitamin A, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B6, vitamin B 12 , vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin H (biotin), vitamin K, folic acid, inositol, niacin and pantothenic acid. Minerals and trace elements used as food additives include calcium, phosphorus, sodium, potassium, magnesium, copper, zinc, choline and iron salts.

[0026] The composition of the present invention may also include additives known in the art. Such additives should be present in an amount that does not impair the purpose and effect provided by the present invention. Examples of additives include substances with stabilizing effects, organoleptic substances, processing aids, and substances that provide nutritional benefits.

[0027] Stabilizing substances can increase the shelf life of the composition. Suitable examples can include preservatives, antioxidants, synergists and chelating agents, packaging gases, stabilizers, emulsifiers, thickeners, gelling agents and humectants. Examples of emulsifiers and / or thickeners include gelatin, cellulose ethers, starches, starch esters, starch ethers and modified starches.

[0028] Additives for coloring, palatability and nutritional purposes may include coloring agents, salts (including but not limited to sodium chloride, potassium citrate, potassium chloride and other edible salts), vitamins, minerals and flavoring agents. The amount of such additives in the composition is generally up to about 5% by weight (based on the dry matter of the composition). Other additives may include antioxidants, ω-3 fatty acids, ω-6 fatty acids, glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate, vegetable extracts, herbal extracts, etc.

[0029] As used herein, the term "palatability" encompasses all the various characteristics of a food perceived by an animal, such as texture, taste, and aroma.

[0030] Some embodiments of the present invention include carbohydrate sources.Carbohydrate sources can include cereals, grains, corn, wheat, rice, oats, corn grits, sorghum, grain sorghum / milo, wheat bran, oat bran, amaranth, durum wheat, and / or semolina.

[0031] Some embodiments of the present invention include fat sources. The fat source or fat component can include poultry fat, chicken fat, turkey fat, pork fat, lard, tallow, beef fat, vegetable oil, corn oil, soybean oil, cottonseed oil, palm oil, palm kernel oil, linseed oil, canola oil, rapeseed oil, fish oil, herring oil, anchovy oil, and / or olestra oil.

[0032] In some embodiments, the pet food composition is formulated to contain fat in an amount of typically about 10% by weight or greater, based on the total weight of the pet food composition on a dry matter basis. For example, the amount of fat present in the pet food composition can be in the following ranges, based on the total weight of the pet food composition on a dry matter basis: about 10% by weight to about 60% by weight, about 10% by weight to about 55% by weight, about 10% by weight to about 50% by weight, about 10% by weight to about 45% by weight, about 10% by weight to about 40% by weight, about 10% by weight to about 35% by weight, about 10% by weight to about 30% by weight; about 11% by weight to about 60% by weight, about 11% by weight to about 55% by weight, about 11% by weight to about 50% by weight, about 11% by weight to about 45% by weight, about 11% by weight to about 40% by weight, about 11% by weight to about 35% by weight; about 12 ... % to about 60 wt %, about 12 wt % to about 55 wt %, about 12 wt % to about 50 wt %, about 12 wt % to about 45 wt %, about 12 wt % to about 40 wt %, about 12 wt % to about 35 wt %; about 13 wt % to about 60 wt %, about 13 wt % to about 55 wt %, about 13 wt % to about 50 wt %, about 13 wt % to about 45 wt %, about 13 wt % to about 40 wt %, about 13 wt % to about 35 wt %; about 13 wt % to about 30 wt %, about 13 wt % to about 25 wt %, about 13 wt % to about 20 wt %, about 13 wt % to about 15 wt %, about 13 wt % to about 14 wt %.

[0033] The term "fat" generally refers to a lipid or lipid mixture that can be generally solid or liquid at normal room temperature (e.g., 25° C.) and pressure (e.g., 1 atmosphere). In some cases, the fat can be a viscous liquid or an amorphous solid at standard room temperature and pressure.

[0034] Other embodiments of the present invention include additional ingredients. For example, these additional ingredients can include active ingredients such as sources of fiber, minerals, vitamins, amino acids, carotenoids, antioxidants, fatty acids, glucose mimetics, probiotics, prebiotics and others.

[0035] Sources of fiber can include, for example, fructooligosaccharides (FOS), beet pulp, mannanoligosaccharides (MOS), oat fiber, citrus pulp, carboxymethylcellulose (CMC), guar gum, gum arabic, apple pomace, citrus fiber, fiber extracts, fiber derivatives, dried beet fiber (sugar-free), cellulose, α-cellulose, galacto-oligosaccharides, xylo-oligosaccharides, and oligomeric derivatives from starch, inulin, psyllium, pectin, citrus pectin, guar gum, xanthan gum, alginate, gum arabic, talha gum, β-glucan, chitin, lignin, cellulose, non-starch polysaccharides, carrageenan, reduced starch, soy oligosaccharides, trehalose, raffinose, stachyose, lactulose, polydextrose, oligoglucans, gentio-oligosaccharides, pectin oligosaccharides and / or hemicellulose.

[0036] Mineral sources may include, for example, sodium selenite, sodium dihydrogen phosphate, calcium carbonate, potassium chloride, ferrous sulfate, zinc oxide, manganese sulfate, copper sulfate, manganese oxide, potassium iodide, and / or cobalt carbonate. In some embodiments, pecan shells may also be a source of lignin-based fibers.

[0037] Suitable vitamins may include choline chloride, vitamin E, ascorbic acid, vitamin A acetate, calcium pantothenate, pantothenic acid, biotin, thiamine mononitrate (a source of vitamin B1), vitamin B12 supplements, niacin, riboflavin supplements (a source of vitamin B2), inositol, pyridoxine hydrochloride (a source of vitamin B6), vitamin D3 supplements, folic acid, vitamin C and / or ascorbic acid.

[0038] In some embodiments, the pet food composition may include one or more sclereids. One or more sclereids may be obtained from: nut shells, such as pecan shells, almond shells, walnut shells, etc.; seeds, such as peas, beans, soybean seeds, etc.; and / or fruit peels, such as pear peels, etc. In one embodiment, the pet food composition comprises pecan shell particles containing one or more sclereids. The sclereids may have a microstructure and are preferably used as an abrasive. For example, sclereids may be selected to provide mechanical destruction of debris, food, and / or bacteria on the teeth of a pet that consumes a pet food composition disclosed herein containing such sclereids. In at least one embodiment, sclereids comprising one or more polyphenols may be selected.

[0039] Sources of polyphenolic ingredients may include tea extract, rosemary extract, rosmarinic acid, coffee extract, pecan shells, caffeic acid, turmeric extract, blueberry extract, grape extract, grape seed extract, and / or soy extract.

[0040] The pet food composition can include one or more phenols, for example, in an amount of about 0.01% to about 10% by weight, based on the total weight of the pet food composition on a dry matter basis. In some cases, the amount of phenol present in the pet food composition is about 0.01% to about 10% by weight, about 0.01% to about 8% by weight, about 0.01% to about 6% by weight, about 0.01% to about 5% by weight, about 0.01% to about 4% by weight, about 0.01% to about 3% by weight, about 0.01% to about 2% by weight, about 0.01% to about 1% by weight, about 0.01% to about 0.5% by weight, about 0.01% to about 0.1% by weight; about 0.05% to about 10% by weight, based on the total weight of the pet food composition on a dry matter basis. %, about 0.05 wt % to about 8 wt %, about 0.05 wt % to about 6 wt %, about 0.05 wt % to about 5 wt %, about 0.05 wt % to about 4 wt %, about 0.05 wt % to about 3 wt %, about 0.05 wt % to about 2 wt %, about 0.05 wt % to about 1 wt %, about 0.05 wt % to about 0.5 wt %, about 0.05 wt % to about 0.1 wt %; about 0.1 wt % to about 10 wt %, about 0.1 wt % to about 8 wt %, about 0.1 wt % to about 6 wt %, about 0.1 wt % to about 5 wt %, about 0.1 wt % to about 4 wt % , about 0.1 wt % to about 3 wt %, about 0.1 wt % to about 2 wt %, about 0.1 wt % to about 1 wt %; about 0.5 wt % to about 10 wt %, about 0.5 wt % to about 8 wt %, about 0.5 wt % to about 6 wt %, about 0.5 wt % to about 5 wt %, about 0.5 wt % to about 4 wt %, about 0.5 wt % to about 3 wt %, about 0.5 wt % to about 2 wt %, about 0.5 wt % to about 1 wt %; about 1 wt % to about 10 wt %, about 1 wt % to about 8 wt %, about 1 wt % to about 6 wt %, about 1 wt % to about 5 wt %, about 1 wt % to about 4 weight %, about 1 weight % to about 3 weight %, about 1 weight % to about 2 weight %; about 2 weight % to about 10 weight %, about 2 weight % to about 8 weight %, about 2 weight % to about 6 weight %, about 2 weight % to about 5 weight %, about 2 weight % to about 4 weight %; about 3 weight % to about 10 weight %, about 3 weight % to about 8 weight %, about 3 weight % to about 6 weight %, about 3 weight % to about 5 weight %; about 4 weight % to about 10 weight %, about 4 weight % to about 8 weight %, about 4 weight % to about 6 weight %; about 5 weight % to about 10 weight %, about 5 weight % to about 8 weight %, or any range or sub-range thereof.

[0041] One or more phenols may be selected from flavonoids, lignans, metabolic enhancers, and combinations of two or more thereof. Examples of lignin that may be included in pet food compositions include coniferyl alcohol, sinapyl alcohol, p-coumarol, and combinations of two or more thereof. Non-limiting examples of flavonoids include, but are not limited to, flavones, flavonols, and flavonones, which are reported to protect the vascular system and play a role in reducing allergies, inflammation, viruses, and tumors. Flavonols are reported to enhance the interwoven chains of collagen. Anthocyanidins (a type of flavonol) can scavenge free radicals. Catechins and gallic acid are reported to be a class of flavonoids with chemical protective properties. Isoflavones are reported to block enzymes that promote tumor growth. Glucosinolates and allyl sulfides (two types of thiol phytonutrients) are reported to have anti-mutagenic and anti-cancer properties and immune and cardiovascular protection for humans. Indoles interact with vitamin C and can bind carcinogens and enzymes. Isoprenoids neutralize free radicals. Lipoic acid and ubiquinone can act as antioxidants that extend the effects of other antioxidants. The natural source of at least one flavonoid and / or its conjugate may be selected from: black or green tea, capers, lovage, apples, onions (particularly red onions), red grapes, citrus fruits, tomatoes, cauliflower, raspberries, bog whortleberries, lingonberries, cranberries, chokeberries, sweet rowans, rowanberries, sea buckthorn berries, crowberries, prickly pear cactus fruit, or a combination thereof.

[0042] The metabolic enhancer can be selected from: lipoic acid, taurine, carnitine, betaine (trimethylglycine), coenzyme Q10, β-alanine, pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ), creatine, and a combination of two or more thereof. In one embodiment, the metabolic enhancer is lipoic acid, carnitine, or a combination thereof. In other embodiments, the pet food composition may include 0.01% to 0.1% additional carnitine, 0.1% to 0.5% additional taurine, 0.25% to 1% additional betaine, and / or 0.005% to 0.05% additional lipoic acid. Due to species differences, lipoic acid is not included in companion animal feline preparations. The inventors recognize that for some embodiments, the enhanced benefits of the pet food composition can be achieved by increasing to allow for increased fat metabolism, for example under a ketogenic diet. For example, it is thought that ketogenic diets induce a metabolic burden of dietary fat catabolism due to a large proportion of energy intake as fat, and may alter gene expression and enzyme activity, leading to a metabolic shift toward fat metabolism and increased energy expenditure. Indeed, ketogenic diets may not be of utmost value unless adequate cofactors are available to achieve increased fat metabolism.

[0043] The inventors recognize that certain additives can be advantageously incorporated to reduce or eliminate the potential acidic metabolic burden of the circulatory system and urinary system due to the ketogenic diet. For example, additives such as potassium citrate can be incorporated into the pet food composition disclosed herein to reduce the incidence or formation of kidney stones. Potassium citrate can provide benefits for urinary health, including dissolving urolithiasis. It should be noted that the incorporation of potassium citrate requires a non-obvious balance of various factors / variables, including but not limited to cations and anions, residual potassium, the pH of the resulting urine, overall palatability, or a combination thereof. However, in some embodiments, the pet food composition can include potassium citrate in an amount sufficient to preferably provide 1 milliequivalent (mEq) to 6 milliequivalent (mEq) potassium citrate per kilogram of metabolic body weight (1mEq to 6mEq K3 citrate / kg0.75).

[0044] Sources of amino acids can include l-tryptophan, taurine, histidine, carnosine, alanine, cysteine, arginine, methionine, tryptophan, lysine, asparagine, aspartic acid, phenylalanine, valine, threonine, isoleucine, histidine, leucine, glycine, glutamine, tyrosine, homocysteine, ornithine, citrulline, glutamic acid, proline, and / or serine.

[0045] The source of carotenoids can include lutein, astaxanthin, zeaxanthin, carmine, lycopene, and / or beta-carotene. The source of antioxidant ingredients can include tocopherol (vitamin E), vitamin C, vitamin A, plant-derived substances, carotenoids (described above), selenium, and / or CoQ10 (coenzyme Q10). The source of fatty acid ingredients can include arachidonic acid, alpha linoleic acid, gamma linolenic acid, linoleic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and / or fish oil as a source of EPA and / or DHA.

[0046] Sources of glucose mimetics can include glucose antimetabolites (including 2-deoxy-D-glucose, 5-thio-D-glucose, 3-O-methyl glucose), anhydrosugars (including 1,5-anhydro-D-glucitol, 2,5-anhydro-D-glucitol and 2,5-anhydro-D-mannitol), mannoheptulose and / or an avocado extract containing mannoheptulose.

[0047] Other ingredients may include beef broth, brewer's dried yeast, eggs, egg products, flax meal, DL-methionine, amino acids, leucine, lysine, arginine, cysteine, cystine, aspartic acid, polyphosphates, sodium pyrophosphate, sodium tripolyphosphate; zinc chloride, copper gluconate, stannous chloride, stannous fluoride, sodium fluoride, triclosan, glucosamine hydrochloride, chondroitin sulfate, green lipped mussel, blue lipped mussel, methyl sulfonyl methane (methyl sulfonyl methane) methane, MSM), boron, boric acid, phytoestrogens, phytoandrogens, genistein, daidzein, L-carnitine, chromium picolinate, chromium tripicolinate, chromium nicotinate, acid / base modifiers, potassium citrate, potassium chloride, calcium carbonate, calcium chloride, sodium bisulfate; eucalyptus, lavender, mint, plasticizers, colorants, flavorings, sweeteners, buffers, sliding aids, carriers, pH adjusters, natural ingredients, stabilizers, biological additives such as enzymes (including proteases and lipases), chemical additives, cold The composition may also include deodorants, chelating agents, denaturing agents, pharmaceutical astringents, emulsifiers, topical analgesics, fragrance compounds, humectants, sunscreens (e.g., zinc oxide and titanium dioxide), antifoaming agents (e.g., silicones), preservatives (e.g., butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) and butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), propyl gallate, benzalkonium chloride, EDTA, benzyl alcohol, potassium sorbate, parabens, and mixtures thereof), reducing agents, solvents, hydrotropes, solubilizing agents, suspending agents (non-surfactants), solvents, viscosity increasing agents (aqueous and non-aqueous), chelating agents, and / or keratolytic agents.

[0048] Suitable probiotics can include being suitable for pets to eat and effectively improve the microbial balance in the pet's gastrointestinal tract or have other benefits to pets, such as one or more bacterial probiotic microorganisms for disease or illness relief or prevention. In some embodiments, the probiotic component can be selected from following bacteria, yeast or microorganisms: Bacillus, Bacteroides, Bifidobacterium, Enterococcus (Enterococcus) (for example, Enterococcus faecium DSM 10663 and Enterococcus faecium SF68), Lactobacillus, Leuconostoc, Saccharomyces, Candida, Streptococcus, and any mixture thereof. In other embodiments, probiotics can be selected from Bifidobacterium, Lactobacillus, and combinations thereof. Those of Bacillus can form spores. In other embodiments, probiotics do not form spores.Non-limiting examples of lactic acid bacteria suitable for use herein include strains of Streptococcus lactis, Streptococcus cremoris, Streptococcus diacetylactis, Streptococcus thermophilus, Lactobacillus bulgaricus, Lactobacillus acidophilus (e.g., Lactobacillus acidophilus strain DSM 13241), Lactobacillus helveticus, Lactobacillus bifidus, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus lactis, Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus delbrukii, Lactobacillus ... helveticus, Lactobacillus bifidus, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus lactis, Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus delbrukii, Lactobacillus thermophilus, Lactobacillus helveticus, Lactobacillus helveticus, Lactobacillus bifidus, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus lactis, Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus delbrukii, Lactobacillus thermophilus, Lactobacillus helveticus, Lactobacillus helvetic In certain embodiments, the probiotic-rich coating may comprise the bacterial strain Bifidobacterium animalis AHC7NCIMB 41199.

[0049] In certain embodiments, the pet food composition comprises moisture.Moisture can exist in multiple amounts or concentrations.In one embodiment, based on the gross weight of the pet food composition, moisture can exist in an amount of about 3 % by weight to about 20 % by weight.For example, based on the gross weight of the pet food composition, moisture can exist in the following amount: about 3 % by weight, about 5 % by weight, about 5.5 % by weight, about 6 % by weight, about 6.5 % by weight, about 7 % by weight, about 7.5 % by weight, about 8 % by weight, about 8.5 % by weight, about 9 % by weight, about 9.5 % by weight, about 10 % by weight, about 10.5 % by weight, about 11 % by weight, about 11.5 % by weight, about 12 % by weight, about 12.5 % by weight, about 13 % by weight, about 13.5 % by weight, about 14 % by weight, about 14.5 % by weight, or about 15 % by weight.In another example, based on the gross weight of the pet food composition, moisture can exist in an amount of about 4 % to about 12 %, about 5 % to about 11 %, about 6 % to about 10 %. In certain embodiments, moisture is present in an amount of about 6% to about 10% based on the total weight of the pet food composition.

[0050] As used herein, the term "abrasive grains" includes granular pellets of components similar to pet food, such as dog food and cat food, typically with a moisture or water content of less than 12% by weight. The texture of the abrasive grains can range from hard to soft. The internal structure of the abrasive grains can range from expanded to dense. The abrasive grains can be formed by an extrusion process. In a non-limiting example, the abrasive grains can be formed from a core and a coating to form coated abrasive grains (also referred to as coated abrasive grains). It should be understood that when the term "abrasive grains" is used, it can refer to uncoated abrasive grains or coated abrasive grains.

[0051] Some embodiments of the present invention include protein sources. Protein sources or protein ingredients can include chicken meal, chicken, chicken by-product meal, lamb, lamb meal, turkey, turkey meal, beef, beef by-products, offal, fish meal, intestines, kangaroo, whitefish, venison, soy meal, soy protein isolate, soy protein concentrate, corn gluten meal, corn protein concentrate, dried distiller's grains, and / or dried distiller's grains solubles and single cell proteins, such as yeast, algae and / or bacterial cultures.

[0052] As described above, the pet food composition may include a carbohydrate source. The carbohydrate source may be selected from the group consisting of cereals, grains, corn, wheat, rice, oats, corn grits, sorghum, grain sorghum / milo, wheat bran, oat bran, amaranth, durum wheat, semolina, and combinations of two or more thereof.

[0053] The term "carbohydrate" can include polysaccharides (e.g., starch and dextrin) and sugars (e.g., sucrose, lactose, maltose, glucose and fructose), which are metabolized into energy when hydrolyzed. The carbohydrate content of a food can be determined by any number of methods known to those skilled in the art.

[0054] Generally, the carbohydrate percentage can be calculated as a nitrogen free extract ("NFE"), which can be calculated as follows: NFE = 100% - (moisture %) - (protein %) - (fat %) - (ash %) - (crude fiber %). The amount of carbohydrate present in the composition (e.g., calculated as NFE) can be in an amount up to 90% by weight, based on the total weight of the pet composition on a dry matter basis. In some embodiments, the carbohydrate is present in the pet food composition in an amount up to about 30% by weight, up to about 20% by weight, up to about 10% by weight, up to about 5% by weight, up to about 4% by weight, up to about 3% by weight, up to about 2% by weight, up to about 1% by weight; about 1% to about 30% by weight, about 1% to about 20% by weight, about 1% to about 10% by weight, about 1% to about 5% by weight, about 1% to about 4 weight %, about 1 weight % to about 3 weight %, about 1 weight % to about 2 weight %; about 3 weight % to about 30 weight %, about 3 weight % to about 20 weight %, about 3 weight % to about 10 weight %, about 3 weight % to about 5 weight %; about 5 weight % to about 30 weight %, about 5 weight % to about 20 weight %, about 5 weight % to about 10 weight %; about 8 weight % to about 30 weight %, about 8 weight % to about 20 weight %, about 8 weight % to about 10 weight %; about 10 weight % to about 30 weight %, about 10 weight % to about 20 weight %, about 10 weight % to about 15 weight %. In other embodiments, the carbohydrate is present in the pet food composition in an amount of about 10% to about 90% by weight, about 10% to about 70% by weight, about 10% to about 50% by weight, about 10% to about 40% by weight, about 10% to about 30% by weight, about 10% to about 20% by weight; about 20% to about 90% by weight, about 20% to about 70% by weight, about 20% to about 50% by weight, about 20% to about 40% by weight; about 30% to about 90% by weight, about 30% to about 70% by weight, about 30% to about 50% by weight, about 30% to about 40% by weight; about 50% to about 90% by weight, about 50% to about 70% by weight; or about 70% to about 90% by weight.

[0055] In certain embodiments, the pet food composition comprises moisture. Moisture can exist in multiple amounts or concentrations. In one embodiment, based on the gross weight of the pet food composition, moisture can exist in an amount of about 3 % by weight to about 20 % by weight. For example, based on the gross weight of the pet food composition, moisture can exist in the following amount: about 3 % by weight, about 5 % by weight, about 5.5 % by weight, about 6 % by weight, about 6.5 % by weight, about 7 % by weight, about 7.5 % by weight, about 8 % by weight, about 8.5 % by weight, about 9 % by weight, about 9.5 % by weight, about 10 % by weight, about 10.5 % by weight, about 11 % by weight, about 11.5 % by weight, about 12 % by weight, about 12.5 % by weight, about 13 % by weight, about 13.5 % by weight, about 14 % by weight, about 14.5 % by weight, or about 15 % by weight. In another example, moisture can be present in an amount of about 6% to about 12%, about 9% to about 13%, about 9% to about 11%, or about 9% to about 13%, based on the total weight of the pet food composition. In certain embodiments, moisture is present in an amount of about 5% to about 12%, about 6% to about 11%, or about 7% to about 10.0%, based on the total weight of the pet food composition. In other embodiments, moisture is present in an amount of about 65% to about 85%, about 60% to about 80%, or about 60% to about 75%, based on the total weight of the pet food composition.

[0056] In some embodiments, the pet food compositions disclosed herein may be in the form of a stand-alone pet food, as a supplement to a pet food, as a pet food treat, and the like.

[0057] Pet food compositions as described herein can be produced by various methods to achieve a desired pet food composition or a desired form for a pet food composition. For example, dry food can be baked or extruded and then cut into separate shaped parts, such as coarse grindings. In some embodiments, pet food compositions can be prepared in canned or wet form using conventional food preparation processes known to those of ordinary skill in the art. Typically, ground animal protein tissue is mixed with other ingredients such as cereal grains, suitable carbohydrate sources, fats, oils and balance ingredients, including special purpose additives such as vitamins and mineral mixtures, inorganic salts, cellulose, beet pulp, etc., and water sufficient for processing. The ingredients are mixed in a container suitable for heating while the components are blended. The heated mixture is carried out in any suitable manner, such as direct steam injection or using a container equipped with a heat exchanger. The pet food compositions and food products of the present disclosure can also be added to or combined with the food composition before, during or after its preparation.

[0058] In some embodiments, food products can be prepared in dry form using conventional methods known to those of ordinary skill in the art. Typically, dry ingredients including dried animal protein, vegetable protein, cereals, etc. are ground and mixed together. Liquid or wet ingredients including fat, oil, water, animal protein, etc. are added in combination with dry materials. The specific formulation, order of addition, combination, and method and equipment for combining multiple ingredients can be selected from those known in the art. For example, in certain embodiments, the resulting mixture is processed into coarse abrasive particles or similar dry blocks, which are formed using an extrusion process, in which a mixture of dry ingredients and wet ingredients is subjected to mechanical work at high pressure and high temperature, forced to pass through a small opening or orifice, and cut into coarse abrasive particles, for example, with a rotating knife. The resulting coarse abrasive particles can be dried and optionally coated with one or more surface coatings, which include, for example, flavoring agents, fats, oils, powdered ingredients, etc. Coarse abrasive particles can also be prepared by baking rather than extrusion of dough, wherein the dough is placed in a mold and then subjected to dry heat treatment.

[0059] When preparing the composition, any ingredient can generally be incorporated into the composition during the processing of the formulation, for example during and / or after mixing the other components of the composition. Distributing these components in the composition can be accomplished by conventional means. In certain embodiments, ground animal and / or poultry protein tissue is mixed with other ingredients, including nutritional balancers, inorganic salts, and may also include cellulose, beet pulp, bulking agents, etc., together with water sufficient for processing.

[0060] In some embodiments, the present invention provides a pet food composition comprising: from about 10% to about 50% by weight protein; from about 10% to about 40% by weight fat; and up to about 20% by weight fiber; wherein the pet food composition has a peak force of from about 5 kg to about 11 kg.

[0061] Without being bound by any particular theory, the inventors believe that certain pet food compositions having specific amounts and ratios of protein and fat limit the expansion capacity of the starch / carbohydrate matrix while providing a lubricating effect and a plasticizing effect to achieve a preferably dense pet food composition having a low peak force texture. Additionally, certain embodiments of the pet food composition advantageously have specific amounts of specific fibers that contribute to the structure of the pet food composition in the form of extruded kibble and provide enhanced texture.

[0062] In some embodiments, the pet food composition further comprises hydrolyzed protein.In certain embodiments, the hydrolyzed protein comprises a protein source selected from the group consisting of: chicken; fish; soy; and combinations of two or more thereof.

[0063] In some embodiments, the pet food composition further comprises lactic acid. In some embodiments, the pet food composition comprises about 0.1% by weight to about 3% by weight of lactic acid. In certain embodiments, the pet food composition comprises about 0.25% by weight to about 2.5% by weight of lactic acid. In other embodiments, the pet food composition comprises about 0.5% by weight to about 2% by weight of lactic acid. In other embodiments, the pet food composition comprises about 0.75% by weight to about 1.75% by weight of lactic acid. In some embodiments, the pet food composition comprises about 1% by weight to about 1.5% by weight of lactic acid. In some embodiments, the pet food composition comprises about 1.2% by weight of lactic acid.

[0064] In some embodiments, the pet food composition has a density greater than about 25 lbs / ft 3 In some embodiments, the pet food composition has a density of about 25 lbs / ft 3 About 38 lbs / ft 3 , optionally about 26 lbs / ft 3 , about 27 lbs / ft 3 , about 28 lbs / ft 3 , about 29 lbs / ft 3 , about 30 lbs / ft 3 , about 31 lbs / ft 3 , about 32 lbs / ft 3 , about 33 lbs / ft 3 , about 34 lbs / ft 3 , about 35 lbs / ft 3 , about 36 lbs / ft 3 , about 37 lbs / ft 3 , or about 38 lbs / ft 3 .

[0065] In some embodiments, the fiber comprises a prebiotic source. In some embodiments, the source of prebiotics is selected from: apples; bananas; flax seeds; chicory root; raw oats; and combinations of two or more thereof.

[0066] Certain embodiments of the present invention provide fibers comprising expanded fibers.

[0067] In other embodiments, the pet food composition further comprises amino acids.

[0068] Still further embodiments provide pet food compositions in the form of kibbles. In some embodiments, the pet food composition is in the form of multi-layer kibbles. In other embodiments, the multi-layer kibbles include a coating. In yet other embodiments, the coating comprises a palatant.

[0069] In some embodiments, the pet food composition is substantially free of humectants.

[0070] In some embodiments, the fiber comprises a fibril network. The fibril network can include plant-based and / or fungus-based fibers and / or fibril networks. Plant-based and / or fungus-based fibers can include soluble fibers and / or insoluble fibers. The fibril network can additionally or alternatively include a protein-fiber network. In certain embodiments, the fibril network is formed by at least plant-based fibers that interact with denatured proteins. Without being limited by any particular theory, the fibril network can be promoted and / or enhanced during the extrusion process of the pet food composition. In some embodiments, the fibril network includes holes. In some embodiments, the pet food composition has a porosity effective for absorbing fat from the coating.

[0071] The pet food composition of the present invention can be provided in any shape or form. In some embodiments, the pet food composition is in the form of kibbles having a length of about 3 mm to about 10 mm. In some embodiments, the kibbles have a width of about 5 mm to about 20 mm. In other embodiments, the kibbles can be provided in various shapes, such as round; oval; elliptical; triangular; square; diamond; spherical, etc.

[0072] In some embodiments, the pet food composition deforms a distance of about 1 mm to about 3 mm.

[0073] Other embodiments of the present invention provide methods for: increasing caloric intake; increasing body weight; improving quality of life; reducing atrophy (e.g., muscle atrophy); enhancing immunity; and / or reducing bone demineralization in companion animals, the method comprising administering a pet food composition to a companion animal in need thereof, the pet food composition comprising: about 10% to about 50% protein by weight; about 10% to about 40% fat by weight; and up to about 20% fiber by weight; wherein the pet food composition has a peak force of about 5kg to about 11kg. In some embodiments, the companion animal is suffering from: cancer; renal dysfunction; and / or liver dysfunction.

[0074] Still further embodiments of the invention provide for the use of any of the compositions described herein for increasing caloric intake in a companion animal in need thereof.

[0075] Embodiments of the present invention will now be further described by way of the following non-limiting examples.

[0076] Example

[0077] Example 1

[0078] An exemplary composition of the present invention is described in Table 1 below.

[0079] Table 1

[0080] Element weight% cereals 30-55 meat 10-40 Fat 10-25 Flavoring 1-5 Egg 1-5 Fiber (prebiotic) 1-5 Minerals 0.5-3 Natural preservatives 0.5-2 Vitamins 0.1-1 Amino Acids 0.1-1 Antioxidants 0.01-0.1

[0081] The exemplary compositions of the present invention described in Table 1 (above) can be prepared according to methods generally known to those skilled in the art of making pet food compositions.

[0082] Example 2

[0083] Two non-limiting exemplary pet food compositions (Example Composition I and Example Composition II) and 11 comparative compositions were obtained, all of which were in the form of kibble. The formulations of Example Compositions I and II (Ex. I and II) and Comparative Compositions 1, 4, 7, 8, 9, 10 and 10 (Comp. 1, 4, 7, 8, 9, 10 and 10) are shown in Table 2. Comparative Compositions 2, 3, 5 and 6 are commercial products. The ingredient lists of Comparative Compositions 2, 3, 5 and 6 are provided after Table 2.

[0084] Table 2

[0085]

[0086]

[0087] Comparative composition 2 had the following ingredients:

[0088] Brewers rice, chicken by-product meal, oat groats, wheat, corn gluten meal, chicken fat, natural flavoring, dried beet pulp, fish oil, calcium carbonate, vegetable oil, potassium chloride, salt, monocalcium phosphate, choline chloride, hydrolyzed yeast, vitamins [DL-alpha tocopheryl acetate (source of vitamin E), L-ascorbyl-2-polyphosphate (source of vitamin C), biotin, D-calcium pantothenate, vitamin A acetate, niacin supplement, pyridoxine hydrochloride (vitamin B6), thiamine mononitrate (vitamin B1), vitamin B12 supplement, riboflavin supplement, vitamin D3 supplement, folic acid], L-lysine, trace minerals (zinc proteinate, zinc oxide, ferrous sulfate, manganese proteinate, manganese oxide, cupric sulfate, calcium iodate, sodium selenite, copper proteinate), magnesium oxide, rosemary extract, preserved with mixed tocopherols and citric acid.

[0089] Comparative composition 3 had the following ingredients:

[0090] Deboned Chicken, Chicken Meal, Brown Rice, Barley, Oatmeal, Pea Starch, Flaxseed (Source of Omega 3 and Omega 6 Fatty Acids), Chicken Fat (Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Dried Tomato Pomace, Natural Flavoring, Peas, Pea Protein, Salt, Potassium Chloride, Dehydrated Alfalfa Meal, Potatoes, Dried Chicory Root, Pea Fiber, Alfalfa Concentrate, Calcium Carbonate, Choline Chloride, DL-Methionine (Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Dicalcium Phosphate, Sweet Potatoes, Carrots, Garlic, Zinc Amino Acid Chelate, Zinc Sulfate, Vegetable Juice for Color Enhancement, Ferrous Sulfate, Vitamin E Supplement, Iron Amino Acid Chelate, Blueberries, Cranberries, Barley Grass, Parsley, Turmeric, Dried Kelp, Yucca Schidigera Schidigera extract, niacin (vitamin B3), glucosamine hydrochloride, calcium pantothenate (vitamin B5), copper sulfate, biotin (vitamin B7), L-ascorbyl 2-polyphosphate (source of vitamin C), L-lysine, L-carnitine, vitamin A supplement, copper amino acid chelate, manganese sulfate, taurine, manganese amino acid chelate, thiamine mononitrate (vitamin B1), riboflavin (vitamin B2), vitamin D3 supplement, vitamin B12 supplement, pyridoxine hydrochloride (vitamin B6), calcium iodate, dried yeast, dried Enterococcus faecium fermentation product, dried Lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product, dried Aspergillus niger fermentation extract, dried Trichoderma longibrachiatum fermentation extract, dried Bacillus subtilis fermentation extract, folic acid (vitamin B9), sodium selenite, rosemary oil.

[0091] Comparative composition 5 had the following ingredients:

[0092] Chicken, Rice, Corn Gluten Meal, Poultry By-Product Meal, Wheat Flour, Dried Egg Product, Beef Fat (Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Soy Protein Concentrate, Natural Flavor, Fish Meal, Inulin, Potassium Chloride, Phosphoric Acid, Calcium Carbonate, Salt, Caramel Color, Choline Chloride, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Niacin Milamin B-3, Vitamin A Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B-5), Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B-1), Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B-2), Vitamin B-12 Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B-6), Folic Acid (Vitamin B-9), Vitamin D-3 Supplement, Biotin (Vitamin B-7), Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex (Vitamin K), Taurine), Minerals (Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Cupric Sulfate, Calcium Iodate, Sodium Selenite), L-Lysine Monohydrochloride, Dried Bacillus coagulans Ferment Product.

[0093] Comparative composition 6 had the following ingredients:

[0094] Deboned chicken, chicken meal, brown rice, barley, oatmeal, pea protein, peas, chicken fat (preserved with mixed tocopherols), dried egg product, herring meal, pea fiber, natural flavoring, flaxseed (source of omega-6 fatty acids), calcium chloride, fish oil (source of omega-3 fatty acids), DL-methionine, calcium sulfate, choline chloride, potatoes, potassium chloride, dehydrated alfalfa meal, dried chicory root, alfalfa concentrate, taurine, calcium carbonate, salt, cranberries (preserved with mixed tocopherols), sweet potatoes, carrots, color-enhanced vegetable juice, ferrous sulfate, niacin (vitamin B3), iron amino acid chelate, zinc amino acid chelate, zinc sulfate, vitamin E supplement, blueberries, barley grass, parsley, turmeric, dried kelp, broadleaf Yucca Schidigera Extract, Copper Sulfate, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Copper Amino Acid Chelate, L-Ascorbyl 2-Polyphosphate (Source of Vitamin C), L-Lysine, Biotin (Vitamin B7), L-Carnitine, Vitamin A Supplement, Manganese Sulfate, Manganese Amino Acid Chelate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B5), Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Vitamin D3 Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid (Vitamin B9), Dried Yeast, Dried Enterococcus Faecium Fermentation Product, Dried Lactobacillus Acidophilus Fermentation Product, Dried Aspergillus Niger Fermentation Extract, Dried Trichoderma Longibacterium Fermentation Extract, Dried Bacillus Subtilis Fermentation Extract, Calcium Iodate, Sodium Selenite, Rosemary Oil.

[0095] Example 3

[0096] The palatability test is carried out using the method commonly used in the pet food industry (called double bowl palatability test). The palatability test program includes: providing a group of 25 pets with a choice of two kinds of food within a specific time period, and comparing the amount (intake) of each food eaten, to determine how much the pet has eaten of each product, and the one eaten in larger amounts is more palatable. Foods are named as controls (Comp.Ex.1 to 3) and tests (Ex.I). The preference for Comp.Ex.1 to 3 or Ex.I is determined by total consumption (the preference for the test indicates that the pet eats more of the test food). In addition, the intake level is statistically analyzed to determine whether there is a statistical difference in the intake level, thereby indicating whether a food is more popular. The scheme is to carry out a 2-day / double food bowl palatability test on 25 pets. The results of these palatability tests are described in Table 3 below.

[0097] Table 3

[0098] Research# Preference for Ex.I (%) Preference for comparative foods (%) P-value 1 84 12 (Comp.Ex.1) 0.0001 2 88 12 (Comp.Ex.2) 0.0001 3 84 12 (Comp.Ex.3) 0.0002

[0099] As described in Table 3 (above), exemplary compositions of the present invention were tested against three (3) different commercial pet foods (Comp. Ex. 1 to 3) and preferences reported. The data described in Table 2 indicate that dogs had a significantly greater preference for the exemplary composition of the present invention (Ex. I) relative to each of the commercial foods (Comp. Ex. 1 to 3).

[0100] Example 4

[0101] Dogs with cancer were recruited by veterinarians at private veterinary clinics. Veterinarians provided food and instructions on how much food and calories to feed based on the ideal weight of the dog. Dog owners were provided with kitchen scales and instructions on how to weigh their dog's original food and new exemplary compositions. Dog owners weighed the original food they provided to the dog and the amount of representative meals that were not eaten, and then recorded how many meals were fed per day. The amount of feed eaten was calculated as the amount supplied (g)-the amount recovered (g)=the amount eaten (g). Using the caloric content of the original food, the calories per day were calculated as the number of grams eaten / day×kcal / g food=kcal / day eaten. Then, dog owners were instructed to transition their dogs to the exemplary food. The amount of exemplary food eaten per day and the calories consumed were determined using the same method as described above.

[0102] Seventy percent (70%) of the dogs with cancer ate up to two hundred and five percent (250%) of the calories of the exemplary composition of the present invention (Ex. I) compared to their original food, and only thirty percent (30%) of the dogs ate the same or fewer calories. The results of this evaluation are reported in Table 4 (below). In addition, the exemplary composition of the present invention (Ex. I) produced excellent stool quality, and the dogs had no vomiting issues from eating the food. The dogs were successfully transitioned to the inventive composition of the present invention (Ex. I) and had no issues due to the high fat levels (no pancreatitis).

[0103] Table 4

[0104]

[0105] In addition, the dog owners reported that their dogs' strength, vitality and energy levels were excellent. They also reported that their dogs maintained a high level of involvement in playing, doing their favorite activities and interacting with people when fed the inventive composition of the present invention for 28 days.

[0106] Example 5

[0107] The texture of the exemplary coarse abrasive grains (Ex.I) of the present invention was evaluated using a TA-XT plus texture analyzer. The coarse abrasive grains were placed individually under the probe as centrally as possible to compress the coarse abrasive grains. After the trigger force was obtained, the probe began to compress the sample to a specific distance. During this time, when a large fracture occurred in the sample, the force was seen to be a series of fluctuations, and then the force curve was smoother and lower as the sample broke into much smaller pieces. After the test (usually 25 repetitions), values ​​that are particularly meaningful for sample analysis can be automatically obtained by MACRO. Typically, for this test, peak force and deformation distance are recorded. The results of these evaluations are described in Table 5 below.

[0108] Table 5

[0109]

[0110] The data in Table 5 (above) show that the exemplary coarse abrasive grains (Ex. I) of the present invention require less force to break the coarse abrasive grains and have a higher deformation point than the comparative coarse abrasive grains (Comp. Ex. 1 to 3). In addition, the inventive coarse abrasive grains and comparative coarse abrasive grains were evaluated by touch, and the inventive coarse abrasive grains (Ex. I) were considered to feel softer than the comparative coarse abrasive grains (Comp. Ex. 1 to 3). This data was confirmed by the texture measurements described in Table 5 (above).

[0111] Example 6

[0112] Dogs with cancer often lose weight, and studies have shown that when weight loss and underweight states are present, it may affect the survival of dogs with cancer. In a study of dogs with cancer, 65% of the dogs had a positive impact on their weight when fed an exemplary composition of the present invention, 25% of the dogs had no change in weight trend, and only 10% of the dogs lost weight during the study. The results are described in Table 6 below. In addition, during the study, the highly palatable food had a much higher positive impact on their weight (4.4% and 4.5%) than the impact of the food on the "no change" group or the "weight loss" group (-1% and 1.1%).

[0113] Table 6

[0114]

[0115] Example 7

[0116] Another exemplary composition of the present invention is described in Table 7 below.

[0117] Table 7

[0118] Element weight% cereals 30-75 meat 10-40 Fat 10-25 Flavoring 1-5 Egg 1-5 Fiber (prebiotic) 1-5 Minerals 0.5-3 Natural preservatives 0.5-2 Vitamins 0.1-1 Amino Acids 0.1-1 Antioxidants 0.01-0.1

[0119] The exemplary compositions of the present invention described in Table 7 (above) can be prepared according to methods generally known to those skilled in the art of making pet food compositions.

[0120] Example 8

[0121] The texture of the exemplary coarse abrasive grains (Ex.II) of the present invention was evaluated using a TA-XT plus texture analyzer. The coarse abrasive grains were placed individually under the probe as centrally as possible to compress the coarse abrasive grains. After the trigger force was obtained, the probe began to compress the sample to a specific distance. During this time, when a large fracture occurred in the sample, the force was seen to be a series of fluctuations, and then the force curve was smoother and lower as the sample broke into much smaller pieces. After the test (usually 25 repetitions), values ​​that are particularly meaningful for sample analysis can be automatically obtained by MACRO. Typically, for this test, peak force and deformation distance are recorded. The results of these evaluations are described in Table 8 below.

[0122] Table 8

[0123]

[0124] The data in Table 8 (above) show that the exemplary coarse abrasive grains (Ex. II) require less force to break and have a higher deformation point than the comparative coarse abrasive grains (Comp. Ex. 4 to 11).

[0125] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been disclosed in the above description, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that many modifications and other embodiments of the present invention will be known to those skilled in the art, with the benefit of the teachings presented in the above description and the associated drawings. It will therefore be understood that the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed above, and that many modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. In addition, although specific terms are employed herein and in the appended claims, they are used only in a general and descriptive sense and are not intended to limit the purpose of the described invention and the appended claims.

Claims

1. A pet food composition comprising: from about 10% to about 50% by weight protein; from about 10% to about 40% by weight fat; and Up to about 20% by weight fibers; wherein the pet food composition has a peak force of about 5 kg to about 11 kg.

2. The pet food composition according to claim 1, further comprising hydrolyzed protein.

3. The pet food composition of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the hydrolyzed protein comprises a protein source selected from the group consisting of: chicken; fish; soy; and combinations of two or more thereof.

4. A pet food composition according to any preceding claim further comprising lactic acid.

5. The pet food composition of any preceding claim, wherein the pet food composition has a density of about 25 lbs / ft 3 About 38 lbs / ft 3 .

6. The pet food composition of any preceding claim, wherein the fiber comprises a prebiotic.

7. The pet food composition of any preceding claim, wherein the fiber comprises expanded fiber.

8. A pet food composition according to any preceding claim further comprising amino acids.

9. A pet food composition according to any preceding claim, wherein the composition is in the form of kibbles.

10. A pet food composition according to any preceding claim, wherein the composition is in the form of multi-layered kibbles.

11. The pet food composition of claim 10, wherein the multi-layered kibble comprises a coating.

12. The pet food composition of claim 11, wherein the coating comprises a palatant.

13. The pet food composition of any preceding claim, wherein the pet food composition is substantially free of humectants.

14. The pet food composition of any preceding claim, wherein the fibers comprise a fibril network.

15. The pet food composition of claim 14, wherein the fibril network comprises pores or voids.

16. The pet food composition of any one of claims 11 to 15, wherein the pet food composition has a porosity effective for absorbing fat from the coating.

17. The pet food composition of any one of claims 10 to 16, wherein the kibbles have a length of about 3 mm to about 10 mm.

18. The pet food composition of any one of claims 10 to 17, wherein the kibbles have a width of about 5 mm to about 20 mm.

19. The pet food composition of any one of claims 10 to 18, wherein the kibbles are substantially round.

20. The pet food composition of any preceding claim, wherein the pet food composition deforms a distance of from about 1 mm to about 3 mm.

21. A method for: Increased caloric intake; Weight gain Improve the quality of life; Reduce atrophy (e.g., muscle wasting); Enhance immunity; and / or Reducing bone demineralization, the method comprising administering any of the pet food compositions described herein to a companion animal in need thereof.

22. The method of claim 21, wherein the pet food composition is deformed a distance of from about 1 mm to about 3 mm.

23. The method of claim 21 or claim 22, wherein the companion animal is selected from canines and felines.

24. The method of any one of claims 21 to 23, wherein the companion animal is suffering from trauma, cancer, renal dysfunction, and / or liver dysfunction; or is recovering from major surgery, burns, and / or serious illness.

25. Use of any of the pet food compositions described herein in a companion animal in need thereof for: Increased caloric intake; Weight gain Improve the quality of life; Reduce atrophy (e.g., muscle wasting); Enhance immunity; and / or Reduce bone demineralization.

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