Self-closing, elastic pet treat without a cavity

Abstract

Edible treat for animals without a pre-formed cavity, consisting of an elastic, edible matrix that automatically deforms and closes when one or more elements are pressed in.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to an edible treat for animals, particularly dogs and cats, for the ingestion and administration of tablets, capsules, or other edible components. The treat does not have a pre-formed cavity. When one or more elements are pressed in, the elastic matrix forms a local indentation, completely encloses the element, and then reseals itself automatically. An optional, softer zone on the surface serves as a guide during pressing. The product is natural, hygienic, sustainable, and easy to use. Due to its natural ingredients and controlled moisture content, it has a long shelf life without artificial additives or preservatives.

[0002] The invention relates to animal nutrition and animal care, in particular food or devices for the stress-free and hygienic oral administration of medications or feed additives to animals.

[0003] Existing tablet delivery products typically have fixed pockets or cavities into which tablets must be placed and then manually closed. These solutions are unreliable, as animals can easily pick out or spit out tablets. Treats containing pre-made medications are also inflexible in terms of dosage and pose legal issues regarding pharmaceuticals. A self-closing solution without a pre-prepared cavity was previously unknown.

[0004] The aim of the invention is to provide a treat for the safe, easy, and hygienic administration of tablets, capsules, or other edible components – without a cavity, without manual squeezing, and without any aids. The product should be easy to use, animal-friendly, natural, durable, and sustainable, and significantly simplify medication administration for the pet owner.

[0005] The treat consists of an elastic, edible matrix. When an element is pressed in, it locally displaces the material, is completely absorbed, and after release, the matrix closes automatically without the need for a pre-formed cavity. This process can be repeated multiple times. For the purposes of this application, the term "matrix" refers to the elastic, edible base material that completely encloses the pressed-in element and causes the self-closing mechanism.

[0006] The matrix is ​​soft and elastic. It consists of plant-based or animal-based food components combined in such a way that they deform when pressed and then return to their original shape. Examples include starch, vegetable proteins, glycerin, vegetable oils, pectin, or gelatin. The product is free of artificial preservatives or colorings. The self-closing function is a property of the matrix and is achieved through viscoelastic recovery forces, without external closing agents, in particular without heat sealing, adhesives, mechanical snap-fit ​​connections, stoppers, or two-part trays.

[0007] The treat may have one or more softer or thinner zones that indicate to the user where a tablet or other ingredient can be inserted. This zone is not a cavity, but simply more elastic. Application is a single step: place the tablet or additive, press in gently, and you're done. No pressing, no tools, no precise aiming. Even elderly or unsteady users can use the product without stress. The process takes only seconds and is virtually error-free.

[0008] The ingredients are mixed, gently warmed, and shaped. During shaping, the softer membrane zone can be directly imprinted. After shaping, the product is gently dried until it reaches its elastic consistency and shelf life.

[0009] A preferred natural composition is: potato / tapioca starch 30-40%, vegetable protein 15-25%, glycerin 3-6%, vegetable oil 5-10%, pectin or gelatin 1-3%, binder 1-2%, natural flavorings 2-5%, water 15-25%. No synthetic colors, flavors, or preservatives.

[0010] Shelf life is achieved through controlled humidity, natural antioxidants (e.g., rosemary extract, vitamin E), and a pH-neutral composition. This allows the product to remain stable for several months without losing elasticity or becoming moldy. Environmentally friendly packaging can further extend its shelf life.

[0011] In an expanded version, a smaller treat or a core with a different flavor can be inserted into the outer matrix (e.g., a piece of meat, cheese, fish, or vegetables), creating a homogeneous, fully edible combination product with a blend of textures and flavors, such as cheese on the outside and meat on the inside. This results in a "snack within a snack" with a double flavor experience. In this version as well, the self-sealing mechanism is automatic and airtight. Shelf life is maintained if the inner core is slightly pre-dried or coated with a thin layer of fat to prevent moisture exchange.

[0012] The matrix can incorporate feed-grade, edible components without medicinal purpose, including: - Vitamins, mineral pellets, vegetable oils / fats (nutritional) - Probiotics / prebiotics in non-medicinal form - Flavored kernels (liver, cheese, yeast, herbs) - Herb / plant flours, fiber pellets - Mini treats or textured kernels (snack-in-snack)

[0013] The self-closing mechanism is achieved solely through the natural elasticity of the matrix, not through heat, pressure, adhesives, or other mechanical aids. The product functions entirely through its structure and composition.

[0014] The advantages are: - No cavity, no manual closing required, - hygienic, safe and stress-free to use - Works in one step: Place tablet on - press in - done - Long shelf life due to natural stabilization - also suitable for snacks or feed supplements - sustainable and easy to produce

[0015] The treat can be used with both feed-grade and approved pharmaceutical components. It is not a medicinal product; if it contains medicinal ingredients, its use is governed by a veterinary prescription. The invention relates to the technical design of the treat, not the active ingredient itself.

[0016] Target groups include veterinarians, pharmacies, practices with medicated animals, feed manufacturers, sustainable brands, and consumers. Reference symbol list: 1 Elastic matrix 2 Indentation zone (soft area) 3. Indented element / tablet 4 Inner core (“snack within a snack”) 5 Natural protective layer / grease layer

Claims

[1] Edible treat for animals without a pre-formed cavity, consisting of an elastic, edible matrix which automatically deforms and closes when one or more elements are pressed in. [2] Treats according to claim 1, with one or more soft zones as indentation points. [3] Treat according to any of the preceding claims, the matrix of which consists of natural, feed-grade ingredients. [4] Treat according to one of the preceding claims, wherein several elements can be introduced simultaneously or successively. [5] A treat according to any of the preceding claims, which may contain tablets, capsules, lozenges or other edible ingredients. [6] Treat according to any of the preceding claims, containing natural flavorings to increase acceptance by animals. [7] Treat according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the surface is smooth after closing and has no visible opening. [8] A treat according to any of the preceding claims, which is completely edible and contains no inedible components. [9] A treat according to any of the preceding claims, which can be used as a snack or reward. [10] Treat according to any of the preceding claims wherein the composition retains elasticity and resilience. [11] Treats according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the moisture content is adjusted so that no mold is formed. [12] Treat according to any of the preceding claims, stabilized by natural antioxidants. [13] Treats according to any of the preceding claims, manufactured in different sizes for different animal species. [14] Treats according to any of the preceding claims, provided in sustainable or biodegradable packaging. [15] A treat according to any of the preceding claims, wherein a smaller treat or a food core is embedded (“snack within a snack”). [16] Treat according to claim 15, wherein the inner kernel has a different consistency or flavor. [17] A treat according to any of the preceding claims, which, due to its composition, has a long shelf life even at room temperature. [18] A treat according to any of the preceding claims, which regulates moisture and remains elastic by natural means. [19] Treat according to any of the preceding claims, made dimensionally stable and durable by gentle drying. [20] Treats according to any of the preceding claims, packaged in a protective atmosphere or airtight. [21] Treat according to any of the preceding claims wherein the self-closing mechanism is achieved without external closing means or other aids such as heat, pressure or adhesive. [22] Treat according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the surface closes completely again within a short time after being pressed. [23] Treats according to any of the preceding claims, the surface of which has a natural protective layer against moisture. [24] Treat according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the indentation points consist of a particularly elastic or flexible material component. [25] Treat according to any of the preceding claims wherein elasticity is achieved by vegetable oils or proteins. [26] A treat according to any of the preceding claims, which is equally suitable for tablets, capsules or feed additives. [27] Treat according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the matrix remains elastic during storage and continues to close itself. [28] Treat according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the self-closing occurs quickly and the surface appears closed again. [29] Treats according to any of the preceding claims, the surface of which is coated with a thin, natural layer of fat which regulates moisture and prevents sticking. [30] Treat according to one of the preceding claims, wherein several indentation points are provided to accommodate different elements. [31] Treats according to any of the preceding claims, which are hygienic, sustainable and easy to produce overall.

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