Pet food compositions

Abstract

To solve the problem in which an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can be an existential threat to animals; protein losing enteropathy associated with IBD results in the loss of endogenous hemostatic albumin and immunoglobins through a degraded gut barrier; it is therefore desirable to provide a pet food composition which may beneficially affect animals suffering from IBD, such as by increasing the circulating protein of the animal, increasing biomarkers associated with health, and / or modifying the gut microbiome.SOLUTION: There are provided pet food compositions comprising: about 7 wt.% or more, based on the total weight of the pet food composition, of an amino acid component comprising, lysine, betaine, and a glutamic acid and / or a salt of them; and about 3.3 wt.% or more, based on the total weight of the pet food composition, of a fatty acid component comprising a fatty acid having an aliphatic tail of 6 to 12 carbon atoms and / or an omega-3 fatty acid.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1A

Description

Background Art

[0001] Cross - reference to related applications This application claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 129,146, filed on December 22, 2020, the content of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0002] Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) can be a life - threatening condition for animals (Schmitz et al., J Vet Intern Med., 2019, Sep;33(5):2005 - 2013). Protein - losing enteropathy associated with IBD results in the loss of endogenous hemostatic albumin and immunoglobulins via the breakdown of the intestinal barrier (Allenspach et al., J Vet Intern Med., 2018, May;32(3):1026 - 1032). Treatment options for such losses are limited. Dietary therapies that increase blood protein status have potential clinical value for such animals.

[0003] Dogs suffering from IBD exhibit reduced appetite and may therefore struggle to achieve appropriate protein and energy intake. In many cases of dogs with food allergies or chronic gastroenteritis from IBD, therapeutic foods with relatively low protein are often recommended and used because they have good tolerance and contain levels of protein that do not cause gastrointestinal disorders such as colonic putrefaction or endotoxemia. However, it may be beneficial to be able to provide food compositions with higher levels of protein. Formulations with higher levels of protein may enable appropriate protein intake even in situations of lower food consumption than the recommended amount.

[0004] Therefore, it would be desirable to provide pet food compositions that can beneficially affect animals suffering from IBD, for example, by increasing the animal's blood proteins, increasing health - related biomarkers, and / or modifying the gut microbiota.

Summary of the Invention

[0005] This summary is intended to introduce only a simplified summary of some aspects of one or more implementations of the present disclosure. The further scope to which the present disclosure is applicable will become apparent from the "Detailed Description" provided herein below. This summary is not an extensive overview and is not intended to identify key or critical elements of the present teachings nor to delineate the scope of the present disclosure. Rather, its purpose is merely to present one or more concepts in a simplified form as a prelude to the "Detailed Description" below.

[0006] The applicant has discovered that utilizing certain ingredients in pet food compositions provides effective health benefits. In one aspect, the health benefit may be increasing the defatted amount of the animal. In another aspect, the health benefit may be increasing the defatted amount of obese animals. In another aspect, the health benefit may be increasing the defatted amount of dogs. Thus, in one aspect, the present invention is a pet food composition comprising soluble fiber and a specific mass ratio of linolenic acid to total 18-carbon polyunsaturated fatty acids.

[0007] In at least one embodiment, the present invention is directed to a pet food composition comprising lysine, betaine, and glutamic acid present in a total amount of about 7% or more based on the weight of the pet food composition, and C8 fatty acid, C10 fatty acid, and omega 3 C18 fatty acid present in a total amount of about 3.3% or more based on the weight of the pet food composition. In certain embodiments, the weight ratio of lysine, betaine, and glutamic acid is from about 5.4:1:7.6 to about 6.5:1:9.1. In certain embodiments, the weight ratio of lysine, betaine, and glutamic acid is about 5.4:1:7.6. In certain embodiments, based on the weight of the pet food composition, the weight of lysine is from about 2% to about 3.3%, the weight of betaine is from about 0.4% to about 0.6%, and the weight of glutamic acid is from about 3% to about 4.6%. In certain embodiments, based on the weight of the pet food composition, the weight of lysine is about 2.7%, the weight of betaine is about 0.5%, and the weight of glutamic acid is about 3.8%. In certain embodiments, the weight ratio of C8 fatty acid, C10 fatty acid, and omega 3 C18 fatty acid is from about 2.21:1.86:1 to about 2.65:2.23:1. In certain embodiments, the weight ratio of C8 fatty acid, C10 fatty acid, and omega 3 C18 fatty acid is about 2.21:1.86:1. In certain embodiments, based on the weight of the pet food composition, the weight of C8 fatty acids is from about 1.15% to about 1.73%, the weight of C10 fatty acids is from about 0.97% to about 1.45%, and the weight of omega-3 C18 fatty acids is from about 0.52% to about 0.78%. In certain embodiments, based on the weight of the pet food composition, the weight of C8 fatty acids is about 1.44%, the weight of C10 fatty acids is about 1.21%, and the weight of omega-3 C18 fatty acids is about 0.65%. In certain embodiments, the composition further comprises flax, citrus pulp, beet pulp, and cranberry pomace. In certain embodiments, flax, citrus pulp, beet pulp, and cranberry pomace are present in a total amount of about 6% or more, based on the weight of the pet food composition. In certain embodiments, the weight ratio of flax, citrus pulp, beet pulp, and cranberry pomace is from about 2:1.5:1.5:1 to about 2.4:1.8:1.8:1. In certain embodiments, the weight ratio of flax, citrus pulp, beet pulp, and cranberry pomace is about 2:1.5:1.5:1. In certain embodiments, based on the weight of the pet food composition, the weight of flax is from about 1.6% to about 2.4%, the weight of citrus pulp is from about 1.2% to about 1.8%, the weight of beet pulp is from about 1.2% to about 1.8%, and the weight of cranberry pomace is from about 0.8% to about 1.2%. In certain embodiments, based on the weight of the pet food composition, the weight of flax is about 2%, the weight of citrus pulp is about 1.5%, the weight of beet pulp is about 1.5%, and the weight of cranberry pomace is about 1.0%.

[0008] In a further embodiment, the present invention is directed to a method for treating, preventing, or ameliorating intestinal microbiome dysbiosis in a companion animal, comprising feeding an effective amount of a composition according to any one of the embodiments described herein to a companion animal in need thereof. In certain embodiments, the companion animal is a dog.

[0009] In other embodiments, the present invention is directed to a pet food composition that alleviates gut microbiota spoilage and includes lysine, betaine, and glutamic acid present in a total amount of about 7% or more based on the weight of the pet food composition, C8 fatty acid, C10 fatty acid, and omega 3 C18 fatty acid present in a total amount of about 3.3% or more based on the weight of the pet food composition, and flax, citrus pulp, beet pulp, and cranberry pomace present in a total amount of about 6% or more based on the weight of the pet food composition. In certain embodiments, the weight ratio of lysine, betaine, and glutamic acid is from about 5.4:1:7.6 to about 6.5:1:9.1. In certain embodiments, the weight ratio of lysine, betaine, and glutamic acid is about 5.4:1:7.6. In certain embodiments, based on the weight of the pet food composition, the weight of lysine is from about 2% to about 3.3%, the weight of betaine is from about 0.4% to about 0.6%, and the weight of glutamic acid is from about 3% to about 4.6%. In certain embodiments, based on the weight of the pet food composition, the weight of lysine is about 2.7%, the weight of betaine is about 0.5%, and the weight of glutamic acid is about 3.8%. In certain embodiments, the weight ratio of C8 fatty acid, C10 fatty acid, and omega 3 C18 fatty acid is from about 2.21:1.86:1 to about 2.65:2.23:1. In certain embodiments, the weight ratio of C8 fatty acid, C10 fatty acid, and omega 3 C18 fatty acid is about 2.21:1.86:1. In certain embodiments, based on the weight of the pet food composition, the weight of C8 fatty acid is from about 1.15% to about 1.73%, the weight of C10 fatty acid is from about 0.97% to about 1.45%, and the weight of omega 3 C18 fatty acid is from about 0.52% to about 0.78%. In certain embodiments, based on the weight of the pet food composition, the weight of C8 fatty acid is about 1.44%, the weight of C10 fatty acid is about 1.21%, and the weight of omega 3 C18 fatty acid is about 0.65%.

[0010] In a further embodiment, the present invention is directed to a method for alleviating intestinal microbiota decay in companion animals, comprising feeding an effective amount of a composition according to any one of the embodiments described herein to a companion animal in need thereof. In certain embodiments, the companion animal is a dog.

[0011] A further scope to which the present invention is applicable will become apparent from the forms for carrying out the invention provided below. Although the forms for carrying out the invention and specific examples show typical embodiments of the present invention, they are intended for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0012] The detailed description of the present invention will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. However, it should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the exact arrangements and means of the embodiments shown in the drawings.

[0013]

Figure 1A

Figure 1B

Figure 1C

[0014]

Figure 2a

Figure 2b

Figure 2c

[0015]

Figure 3

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0016] For purposes of illustration, the principles of the present invention are described by reference to its various illustrative embodiments. Although specific embodiments of the invention are specifically described herein, those skilled in the art will readily recognize that the same principles are equally applicable and can be employed in other applications and methods. It is understood that the present invention is not limited to the details of any particular embodiment shown in its application. The terms used herein are for purposes of description and do not limit the invention, its application, or use.

[0017] As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include plural references unless the context dictates otherwise. The singular form of any class of components refers to not only one chemical species within that class but also mixtures of those chemical species. The terms "a" (or "an"), "one or more", and "at least one" may be used interchangeably herein. The terms "comprising", "including", "containing", and "having" may be used interchangeably. The term "include" should be construed to mean "including but not limited to". The term "including" should be construed to mean "including but not limited to".

[0018] As used throughout, "range" is used as an abbreviation for describing any and all values within that range. Any value within the range can be selected as the end of that range.

[0019] Unless otherwise specified, all percentages and amounts expressed herein and elsewhere in this specification are to be understood as referring to the weight percentages of the total composition. References to molecules, or multiple molecules, present in "wt.%" refer to the amount of that molecule, or multiple molecules, present in the composition based on the total weight of the composition.

[0020] According to this application, the use of the term "about" associated with a numerical value refers to a value that may be + / −5% of that number. As used herein, the term "substantially free" is intended to mean an amount of less than about 5.0 wt.%, less than 3.0 wt.%, less than 1.0 wt.%, preferably less than about 0.5 wt.%, more preferably less than about 0.25 wt.% of the composition.

[0021] As used herein, the term "effective amount" refers to an amount effective to induce a desired biological response and includes an amount of the composition that is sufficient to achieve an effect directed towards the desired result when administered to a subject. The effective amount can vary depending on the composition, the disease, and its severity, and the age, weight, etc. of the subject being treated. The effective amount can include a range of amounts. As understood in the art, the effective amount can be one or more doses, i.e., a single or multiple doses may be required to achieve the desired evaluation item.

[0022] As used herein, the term "wt.%" generally refers to weight percent based on the total weight of the pet food composition.

[0023] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. All patents, patent applications, publications, and other references cited or referred to herein are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety for all purposes. In the event of a conflict between the definitions in this disclosure and those in the cited references, this disclosure shall control.

[0024] The present disclosure is directed to pet food compositions and methods of using such pet food compositions for the treatment of household pets. In certain embodiments, the pet is a dog. In other embodiments, the dog suffers from gastroenteritis.

[0025] The inventors have surprisingly and unexpectedly found that administering to an animal a pet food product comprising lysine, betaine, and glutamic acid present in a total amount of about 7 wt% or more, based on the weight of the pet food composition, and one or more fatty acids having an aliphatic chain of 6 to 12 carbons (e.g., C8 fatty acid and / or C10 fatty acid) and omega-3 fatty acids (e.g., omega-3 C18 fatty acid) present in a total amount of about 3.3 wt% or more, based on the weight of the pet food composition, provides enhanced health benefits to the animal. For example, the pet food composition can advantageously contain a higher amount of protein than conventional pet food compositions for pets having IBD without exacerbating or increasing the symptoms of IBD and / or colonic putrefaction. In certain embodiments, glutamine may also be contained within the pet food composition. In certain embodiments, the pet food composition can contain glutamic acid and / or a salt thereof (e.g., sodium glutamate), glutamine, or a combination of two or more thereof.

[0026] Such improvement in health benefits can be exemplified in a number of ways. In a first aspect, the health benefit may be to increase the animal's dietary protein without an increase in colonic putrefaction. In another aspect, the health benefit may be to increase beneficial biomarkers. In another aspect, the health benefit may be to beneficially modify the animal's microbiome. In one aspect, the health benefit may be to increase the lean mass of the animal. In another aspect, the health benefit may be to increase the lean mass of an obese animal. In another aspect, the health benefit may be to increase the lean mass of a dog. Lean mass can be defined as the lean mass percentage of the absolute or total mass.

[0027] In one aspect, the present disclosure thus provides a pet food composition comprising lysine, betaine, and glutamic acid present in a total amount of about 7% by weight or more based on the weight of the pet food composition, and C8 fatty acid, C10 fatty acid, and omega-3 C18 fatty acid present in a total amount of about 3.3% by weight or more based on the weight of the pet food composition. In certain embodiments, the composition further comprises flax, citrus pulp, beet pulp, and cranberry pomace. In certain embodiments, flax, citrus pulp, beet pulp, and cranberry pomace are present in a total amount of about 6% or more based on the weight of the pet food composition.

[0028] Lysine can be present in various amounts or concentrations. Lysine can be included in various forms, such as, but not limited to, salts, monoprotionated zwitterionic salts, hydrochloride (HCl) salts, peptidyl forms of lysine, for example, but not limited to, mono-, di-, tri-, and oligo-peptide forms. In one embodiment, lysine can be present in an amount of about 0.5% to about 6.3% based on the weight of the pet food composition. For example, lysine can be present in an amount of about 0.5% by weight, about 1.0% by weight, about 1.5% by weight, about 2.0% by weight, about 2.5% by weight, about 3.0% by weight, about 3.5% by weight, about 4.0% by weight, about 4.5% by weight, about 5.0% by weight, about 5.5% by weight, about 6.0% by weight, about 6.3% by weight, or any amount within a range thereof based on the total weight of the pet food composition. In another example, lysine can be present in an amount of about 0.5% to about 6%, about 0.8% to about 5.5%, about 1.0% to about 5.0%, or about 1.5% to about 4% based on the weight of the pet food composition. In a further embodiment, lysine is present in an amount of about 0.5% or more, about 1.5% or more, about 2.5% or more, or about 2.7% or more up to a maximum of about 6.3% based on the weight of the pet food composition. In a further embodiment, lysine is present in an amount of about 0.5% to 6%, about 1% to about 5%, about 2% to about 4%, or about 2% to about 3% based on the weight of the pet food composition.

[0029] Betaine can be present in various amounts or concentrations. In one embodiment, betaine can be present in an amount of about 0.2% to about 5% based on the weight of the pet food composition. For example, betaine can be about 0.2 wt%, about 0.4 wt%, about 0.6 wt%, about 0.8 wt%, about 1.0 wt%, about 1.2 wt%, about 1.4 wt%, about 1.6 wt%, about 1.8 wt%, about 2.0 wt%, about 2.5 wt%, about 3.0 wt%, about 3.5 wt%, about 4.0 wt%, about 4.5 wt%, about 5.0 wt%, or an amount within any range of these, based on the total weight of the pet food composition. In another example, betaine can be present in an amount of about 0.2 wt% to about 4 wt%, about 0.3 wt% to about 4.5 wt%, about 0.4 wt% to about 3.0 wt%, or about 0.5 wt% to about 2 wt% based on the weight of the pet food composition. In a further embodiment, betaine is present in an amount of about 0.2 wt% or more, about 0.4 wt% or more, about 0.8 wt% or more, or about 1 wt% or more up to a maximum of about 5 wt% or more based on the weight of the pet food composition. In a further embodiment, betaine is present in an amount of 0.2 wt% to 4 wt%, about 0.2 wt% to about 3 wt%, about 0.2 wt% to about 2 wt%, about 0.2 wt% to about 1 wt% based on the weight of the pet food composition.

[0030] Glutamic acid, glutamine, their salts, or combinations thereof can be present in various amounts or concentrations. In certain embodiments, glutamic acid can be present in the form of glutamic acid, glutamine, their salts, or combinations of two or more thereof. Glutamic acid and / or glutamine can be in various forms including, but not limited to, free base, salts such as hydrochloride (HCl) salts, and peptidyl forms such as, but not limited to, mono-, di-, tri-, and oligo-peptide forms. In one embodiment, glutamic acid, glutamine, their salts, and / or combinations of two or more thereof can be present in an amount of about 0.5 wt% to about 6.3 wt% based on the weight of the pet food composition. For example, the pet food composition can contain glutamic acid, glutamine, their salts, and / or combinations of two or more thereof in an amount of about 0.5 wt% to 6.3 wt%, about 0.5 wt% to 6 wt%, about 0.5 wt% to 5 wt%, about 0.5 wt% to 4 wt%, about 0.5 wt% to 3 wt%, about 0.5 wt% to 2 wt%, about 0.5 wt% to 1 wt%, about 1 wt% to 6.3 wt%, about 1 wt% to 6 wt%, about 1 wt% to 5 wt%, about 1 wt% to 4 wt%, about 1 wt% to 3 wt%, about 1 wt% to 2 wt%, about 2 wt% to 6.3 wt%, about 2 wt% to 6 wt%, about 2 wt% to 5 wt%, about 2 wt% to 4 wt%, about 2 wt% to 3 wt%, about 3 wt% to 6.3 wt%, about 3 wt% to 6 wt%, about 3 wt% to 5 wt%, about 3 wt% to 4 wt%, about 4 wt% to 6.3 wt%, about 4 wt% to 6 wt%, about 4 wt% to 5 wt%, about 5 wt% to 6.3 wt%, or about 5 wt% to 6 wt% based on the total weight of the pet food composition.

[0031] For example, glutamic acid, glutamine, their salts, and / or combinations of two or more thereof may be present in an amount of about 0.5 wt%, about 1.0 wt%, about 1.5 wt%, about 2.0 wt%, about 2.5 wt%, about 3.0 wt%, about 3.5 wt%, about 4.0 wt%, about 4.5 wt%, about 5.0 wt%, about 5.5 wt%, about 6.0 wt%, about 6.3 wt%, or any range of these amounts, based on the total weight of the pet food composition. In another embodiment, glutamic acid and / or glutamine may be present in an amount of about 0.5 wt% to about 6 wt%, about 0.8 wt% to about 5.5 wt%, about 1.0 wt% to about 5.0 wt%, or about 1.5 wt% to about 4 wt%, based on the weight of the pet food composition. In a further embodiment, glutamic acid and / or glutamine are present in an amount of from about 0.5 wt% or more, about 1.5 wt% or more, about 2.5 wt% or more, or about 2.7 wt% or more up to a maximum of about 6.3 wt%, based on the weight of the pet food composition. In a further embodiment, glutamic acid and / or glutamine are present in an amount of about 0.5 wt% to 6 wt%, about 1 wt% to about 5 wt%, about 2 wt% to about 4 wt%, about 2 wt% to about 3 wt%, based on the weight of the pet food composition.

[0032] The pet food composition may contain various amounts or concentrations of lysine, betaine, and glutamic acid. In certain embodiments, the weight ratio of lysine, betaine, and glutamic acid is from about 5.4:1:7.6 to about 6.5:1:9.1. In certain embodiments, the weight ratio of lysine, betaine, and glutamic acid is about 5.4:1:7.6. In certain embodiments, based on the weight of the pet food composition, lysine is present in an amount of about 2 wt% to about 3.3 wt%, betaine is present in an amount of about 0.4 wt% to about 0.6 wt%, and glutamic acid is present in an amount of about 3 wt% to about 4.6 wt%. In certain embodiments, based on the weight of the pet food composition, lysine is present in an amount of about 2.7 wt%, betaine is present in an amount of about 0.5 wt%, and glutamic acid is present in an amount of about 3.8 wt%.

[0033] A fatty acid is a carboxylic acid having an aliphatic chain and is either saturated or unsaturated. In organisms, the aliphatic end usually contains an even number of carbon atoms from 4 to 28. For example, fatty acids may contain an aliphatic end with 4 to 28 carbons, 4 to 25 carbons, 4 to 22 carbons, 4 to 20 carbons, 4 to 18 carbons, 4 to 15 carbons, 4 to 12 carbons, 4 to 10 carbons, 6 to 28 carbons, 6 to 25 carbons, 6 to 22 carbons, 6 to 20 carbons, 6 to 18 carbons, 6 to 15 carbons, 6 to 12 carbons, 6 to 10 carbons, 8 to 28 carbons, 8 to 25 carbons, 8 to 22 carbons, 8 to 20 carbons, 8 to 18 carbons, 8 to 15 carbons, 8 to 12 carbons, or 8 to 10 carbons. In at least one embodiment, the fatty acid may have one or more fatty acids with an aliphatic end of 8 to 10 carbons. The pet food composition may include caproic (hexanoic acid), caprylic (octanoic acid), capric (decanoic acid), lauric (dodecanoic acid), myristic (tetradecanoic acid), palmitic (hexadecanoic acid), stearic (octadecanoic acid), arachidic (eicosanoic acid), behenic (docosanoic acid), or a combination of two or more thereof. In some examples, one or more fatty acids are selected from caproic (hexanoic acid), caprylic (octanoic acid), capric (decanoic acid), lauric (dodecanoic acid), myristic (tetradecanoic acid), and combinations of two or more thereof. In at least one embodiment, the fatty acid is selected from caprylic (octanoic acid), capric (decanoic acid), lauric (dodecanoic acid), myristic (tetradecanoic acid), and combinations of two or more thereof.

[0034] Additionally, the pet food composition may contain two or more, three or more, or four or more fatty acids. In one embodiment, the pet food composition includes at least one fatty acid having an aliphatic end of 8 carbons and at least one fatty acid having an aliphatic end of 10 carbons.

[0035] Fatty acids having 8 carbon atoms may be referred to herein as "C8 fatty acids" or "C8". Fatty acids having 10 carbon atoms may be referred to herein as "C10 fatty acids" or "C10". An example of a saturated C8 fatty acid is caprylic acid. The pet food composition may contain one or more C8 fatty acids. C8 fatty acids can be present in various amounts or concentrations. In one embodiment, C8 can be present in an amount of about 0.5% to about 6.3% based on the weight of the pet food composition. For example, the C8 fatty acid can be present in an amount of about 0.5 wt%, about 1.0 wt%, about 1.5 wt%, about 2.0 wt%, about 2.5 wt%, about 3.0 wt%, about 3.5 wt%, about 4.0 wt%, about 4.5 wt%, about 5.0 wt%, about 5.5 wt%, about 6.0 wt%, about 6.3 wt%, or any range of amounts therebetween based on the total weight of the pet food composition. In another example, the C8 fatty acid can be present in an amount of about 0.5 wt% to about 6 wt%, about 0.8 wt% to about 5.5 wt%, about 1.0 wt% to about 5.0 wt%, or about 1.5 wt% to about 4 wt% based on the weight of the pet food composition. In a further embodiment, the C8 fatty acid is present in an amount of about 0.5 wt% or more, about 1.5 wt% or more, about 2.5 wt% or more, or about 2.7 wt% or more up to a maximum of about 6.3 wt% based on the weight of the pet food composition. In a further embodiment, the C8 fatty acid is present in an amount of about 0.5 wt% to 6 wt%, about 1 wt% to about 5 wt%, about 1 wt% to about 4 wt%, about 1 wt% to about 3 wt%, or about 1 wt% to about 2 wt% based on the weight of the pet food composition.

[0036] An example of a saturated C10 fatty acid is capric acid. The pet food composition may contain one or more C10 fatty acids. The C10 fatty acids can be present in various amounts or concentrations. In one embodiment, the C10 fatty acids can be present in an amount of about 0.5 wt% to about 6.3 wt% based on the weight of the pet food composition. For example, the C10 fatty acids can be present in an amount of about 0.5 wt%, about 1.0 wt%, about 1.5 wt%, about 2.0 wt%, about 2.5 wt%, about 3.0 wt%, about 3.5 wt%, about 4.0 wt%, about 4.5 wt%, about 5.0 wt%, about 5.5 wt%, about 6.0 wt%, about 6.3 wt%, or any range of amounts therebetween based on the total weight of the pet food composition. In another example, the C10 fatty acids can be present in an amount of about 0.5% to about 6%, about 0.8% to about 5.0%, about 1.0% to about 4.0%, or about 1.0% to about 3% based on the weight of the pet food composition. In a further embodiment, the C10 fatty acids are present in an amount of at least about 0.5%, at least about 1.5%, at least about 2.5%, or at least about 2.7% up to a maximum of about 6.3% based on the weight of the pet food composition. In a further embodiment, the C10 fatty acids are present in an amount of about 0.5% to 6%, about 1% to about 5%, about 1% to about 4%, about 1% to about 3%, or about 1% to about 2% based on the weight of the pet food composition.

[0037] A pet food composition typically contains one or more omega-3 fatty acids in an amount in the range of typically about 0.2% to about 5% based on the weight of the pet food composition. For example, the omega-3 fatty acids can be present in the pet food composition in an amount of about 0.2 wt% to 5 wt%, about 0.2 wt% to 4 wt%, about 0.2 wt% to 3 wt%, about 0.2 wt% to 2 wt%, about 0.5 wt% to 5 wt%, about 0.5 wt% to 4 wt%, about 0.5 wt% to 3 wt%, about 0.5 wt% to 2 wt%, about 1 wt% to 5 wt%, about 1 wt% to 4 wt%, about 0.2 wt% to 3 wt%, about 0.2 wt% to 2 wt%, about 1 wt% to 5 wt%, about 1 wt% to 4 wt%, about 1 wt% to 3 wt%, about 1 wt% to 2 wt%, about 2 wt% to 5 wt%, about 2 wt% to 4 wt%, about 2 wt% to 3 wt%, about 3 wt% to 5 wt%, about 3 wt% to 4 wt%, or about 4 wt% to 5 wt% based on the total weight of the pet food composition. In some embodiments, the omega-3 fatty acids can be present in the pet food composition in an amount of about 0.2 wt%, about 0.4 wt%, about 0.6 wt%, about 0.8 wt%, about 1.0 wt%, about 1.2 wt%, about 1.4 wt%, about 1.6 wt%, about 1.8 wt%, about 2.0 wt%, about 2.5 wt%, about 3.0 wt%, about 3.5 wt%, about 4.0 wt%, about 4.5 wt%, about 5.0 wt%, or an amount in the range thereof based on the total weight of the pet food composition.

[0038] The omega-3 fatty acids may have one aliphatic end of 16 to 24 carbons, 17 to 24 carbons, 18 to 24 carbons, 19 to 24 carbons, 20 to 24 carbons, 16 to 23 carbons, 17 to 23 carbons, 18 to 23 carbons, 19 to 23 carbons, 20 to 23 carbons, 16 to 22 carbons, 17 to 22 carbons, 18 to 22 carbons, 19 to 22 carbons, or 20 to 22 carbons. Preferably, the pet food composition contains omega-3 fatty acids having at least one aliphatic end of 18 to 22 carbons. The omega-3 fatty acids may include linolenic acid, stearidonic acid, eicosatetraenoic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, docosapentaenoic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, or a combination of two or more thereof.

[0039] Omega-3 fatty acids can include at least one omega-3 C18 fatty acid. An example of an omega-3 C18 fatty acid is alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). The pet food composition may include one or more omega-3 C18 fatty acids. The omega-3 C18 fatty acid may be selected from alpha-linolenic acid, stearidonic acid, and combinations thereof. The omega-3 C18 fatty acid can be present in various amounts or concentrations. In one embodiment, the omega-3 C18 fatty acid can be present in an amount of about 0.2% to about 5% based on the weight of the pet food composition. For example, the omega-3 C18 fatty acid can be about 0.2 wt%, about 0.4 wt%, about 0.6 wt%, about 0.8 wt%, about 1.0 wt%, about 1.2 wt%, about 1.4 wt%, about 1.6 wt%, about 1.8 wt%, about 2.0 wt%, about 2.5 wt%, about 3.0 wt%, about 3.5 wt%, about 4.0 wt%, about 4.5 wt%, about 5.0 wt%, or an amount within the range thereof based on the total weight of the pet food composition. In another example, the omega-3 C18 fatty acid can be present in an amount of about 0.2% to about 4%, about 0.3% to about 4.5%, about 0.4% to about 3.0%, or about 0.5% to about 2% based on the weight of the pet food composition. In a further embodiment, the omega-3 C18 fatty acid is present in an amount of from about 0.2% or more, about 0.4% or more, about 0.8% or more, or about 1% or more up to a maximum of about 5% based on the weight of the pet food composition. In a further embodiment, the omega-3 C18 fatty acid is present in an amount of about 0.2% to 4%, about 0.2% to about 3%, about 0.2% to about 2%, or about 0.2% to about 1% based on the weight of the pet food composition.

[0040] The pet food composition may contain various amounts or concentrations of C8 fatty acids, C10 fatty acids, and omega-3 C18 fatty acids. In certain embodiments, the weight ratio of C8 fatty acids, C10 fatty acids, and omega-3 C18 fatty acids is from about 2.21:1.86:1 to about 2.65:2.23:9.1. In further embodiments, the weight ratio of C8 fatty acids, C10 fatty acids, and omega-3 C18 fatty acids is from about 2:1.3:1 to about 4.5:3.5:1 or from about 2:1.3:1 to about 4:3:1. In yet another embodiment, the weight ratio of C8 fatty acids, C10 fatty acids, and omega-3 C18 fatty acids is from about 1.75:1.1:1 to about 2.21:1.86:1. In certain embodiments, the weight ratio of C8 fatty acids, C10 fatty acids, and omega-3 C18 fatty acids is about 2.21:1.86:1. In certain embodiments, based on the weight of the pet food composition, the C8 fatty acids are present in an amount of about 1.15 wt% to about 1.73 wt%, the C10 fatty acids are present in an amount of about 0.97 wt% to about 1.45 wt%, and the omega-3 C18 fatty acids are present in an amount of about 0.52 wt% to about 0.78 wt%. In certain embodiments, based on the weight of the pet food composition, the C8 fatty acids are present in an amount of about 1.44 wt%, the C10 fatty acids are present in an amount of about 1.21 wt%, and the omega-3 C18 fatty acids are present in an amount of about 0.65 wt%.

[0041] The protein of the composition can be present in various amounts or concentrations. In one embodiment, the protein can be present in an amount of about 20 wt% to about 45 wt% based on the weight of the pet food composition. For example, the protein can be present in an amount of about 20 wt%, about 25 wt%, about 30 wt%, about 35 wt%, about 40 wt%, about 45 wt%, or amounts within those ranges based on the total weight of the pet food composition. In another example, the protein can be present in an amount of about 25 wt% to about 40 wt%, about 30 wt% to about 40 wt%, or about 30 wt% to about 35 wt% based on the weight of the pet food composition. In certain embodiments, the protein is present in an amount of about 20 wt% to about 35 wt%, about 25 wt% to about 35 wt%, or about 28 wt% to about 35 wt% based on the weight of the pet food composition.

[0042] The total dietary fiber of the composition can be present in various amounts or concentrations. In one embodiment, the total dietary fiber can be present in an amount of less than about 20% based on the weight of the pet food composition. In certain embodiments, the total dietary fiber is present in an amount of about 10% to about 20% by weight based on the weight of the pet food composition. For example, the total dietary fiber can be about 10.0% by weight, about 10.5% by weight, about 11.0% by weight, about 11.5% by weight, about 12.0% by weight, about 12.5% by weight, about 13.0% by weight, about 13.5% by weight, about 14.0% by weight, about 14.5% by weight, about 15.0% by weight, about 15.5% by weight, about 16.0% by weight, about 16.5% by weight, about 17.0% by weight, about 17.5% by weight, about 18.0% by weight, about 18.5% by weight, about 19.0% by weight, about 19.5% by weight, about 20.0% by weight, or an amount within those ranges, based on the total weight of the pet food composition. In another example, the total dietary fiber can be present in an amount of about 10% to about 18% by weight, about 12% to about 18% by weight, or about 15% to about 18% by weight based on the weight of the pet food composition. In further embodiments, the total dietary fiber is present in an amount of about 15% to about 20% by weight, about 16% to about 19% by weight, or about 16% to about 18% by weight based on the weight of the pet food composition.

[0043] The moisture of the composition can be present in various amounts or concentrations. The moisture can be present in various amounts or concentrations. In one embodiment, the moisture can be present in an amount of about 5% to about 15% by weight based on the weight of the pet food composition. For example, the moisture can be about 5.0% by weight, about 5.5% by weight, about 6.0% by weight, about 6.5% by weight, about 7.0% by weight, about 7.5% by weight, about 8.0% by weight, about 8.5% by weight, about 9.0% by weight, about 9.5% by weight, about 10.0% by weight, about 10.5% by weight, about 11.0% by weight, about 11.5% by weight, about 12.0% by weight, about 12.5% by weight, about 13.0% by weight, about 13.5% by weight, about 14.0% by weight, about 14.5% by weight, about 15.0% by weight, or an amount within those ranges, based on the total weight of the pet food composition. In another embodiment, the moisture can be present in an amount of about 8 wt% to about 13 wt%, about 9 wt% to about 13 wt%, about 9 wt% to about 11 wt%, or about 9 wt% to about 13 wt% based on the weight of the pet food composition. In certain embodiments, the moisture is present in an amount of about 10 wt% to about 12 wt%, about 10.5 wt% to about 12 wt%, or about 10.5 wt% to about 11.5 wt% based on the weight of the pet food composition.

[0044] The composition of the present invention may optionally contain additional ingredients suitable for use in pet food compositions. Examples of such ingredients include, but are not limited to, lipids, carbohydrates, dietary fiber, amino acids, minerals, trace elements, vitamins, additives.

[0045] Carbohydrates can be supplied from any of a variety of raw material sources known to those skilled in the art, including oat fiber, cellulose, peanut hulls, beet pulp, parboiled rice, corn starch, corn gluten meal, and any combination of these raw material sources. Cereals that supply carbohydrates can include, but are not limited to, wheat, corn, barley, and rice. The carbohydrate content of the food can be determined by any number of methods known to those skilled in the art. Generally, the percentage of carbohydrates can be calculated as nitrogen-free extract (「NFE」), which can be calculated as follows. NFE = 100% - moisture% - protein% - lipid% - ash% - crude fiber%.

[0046] Dietary fiber refers to the components of plants that are resistant to digestion by animal digestive enzymes. Dietary fibers include soluble fibers and insoluble fibers. Soluble fibers are resistant to digestion and absorption in the small intestine and are completely or partially fermented in the large intestine. Examples include beet pulp, guar gum, chicory root, psyllium, pectin, blueberries, cranberries, pumpkins, apples, oats, legumes, citrus fruits, barley, fructooligosaccharides (FOS), or peas. Insoluble fibers can be supplied from any of a variety of raw material sources, including, for example, cellulose, whole wheat products, wheat oats, corn bran, flax seeds, grapes, celery, green beans, cauliflower, potato skins, fruit skins, vegetable skins, peanut shells, rye grains, sweet potatoes, and soy fiber. Crude fiber includes components that are difficult to digest and are contained in the cell walls and cell contents of plants such as grains, for example, the husks of grains such as rice, corn, and legumes. The typical amount of fiber in the compositions of the present disclosure can be about 0 to 10%, or about 1% to about 5%. For example, the amount of fiber (e.g., crude fiber or dietary fiber) in a pet food composition can be about 0.1 to about 10 wt%, about 0.1 to about 9 wt%, about 0.1 to about 8 wt%, about 0.1 to about 7 wt%, about 0.1 to about 6 wt%, about 0.1 to about 5 wt%, about 0.1 to about 4 wt%, about 0.1 to about 3 wt%, about 0.1 to about 2 wt%, about 0.1 to about 1 wt%; about 0.5 to about 10 wt%, about 0.5 to about 9 wt%, about 0.5 to about 8 wt%, about 0.5 to about 7 wt%, about 0.5 to about 6 wt%, about 0.5 to about 5 wt%, about 0.5 to about 4 wt%, about 0.5 to about 3 wt%, about 0.5 to about 2 wt%, about 0.5 to about 1 wt%; about 1 to about 10 wt%, about 1 to about 9 wt%, about 1 to about 8 wt%, about 1 to about 7 wt%, about 1 to about 6 wt%, about 1 to about 5 wt%, about 1 to about 4 wt%, about 1 to about 3 wt%, about 1 to about 2 wt%; about 1.5 to about 10 wt%, about 1.5 to about 9 wt%, about 1.5 to about 8 wt%, about 1.5 to about 7 wt%, about 1.5 to about 6 wt%, about 1.5 to about 5 wt%, about 1.5 to about 4 wt%, or about 1.5 to about 3 wt%, based on the total weight of the pet food composition.

[0047] Amino acids containing essential amino acids may be added to the compositions of the present disclosure as free amino acids or may be supplied to the compositions of the present disclosure by any number of component sources (e.g., crude protein). Essential amino acids are amino acids that cannot be newly synthesized or can only be synthesized in insufficient amounts by living organisms and must therefore be supplied in the diet. Essential amino acids vary by species depending on the metabolism of the living organism. For example, it is generally understood that the essential amino acids for dogs and cats (as well as humans) are phenylalanine, leucine, methionine, lysine, isoleucine, valine, threonine, tryptophan, histidine, and arginine. In addition, taurine, which is not technically an amino acid but a derivative of cysteine, is an essential nutrient for cats.

[0048] The compositions of the present invention may optionally contain lipids. The term "lipid" generally refers to a lipid or mixture of lipids that may generally be solid or liquid at normal room temperature (e.g., 25 °C) and pressure (e.g., 1 atmosphere). In some cases, the lipid may be a viscous liquid or an amorphous solid at standard room temperature and standard pressure. Lipids can be supplied by any of a variety of component sources known to those of skill in the art, such as meat, meat by-products, canola oil, fish oil, plants, etc. Vegetable fat sources include not only wheat, flaxseed, rye, barley, rice, sorghum, corn, oats, millet, wheat germ, corn germ, soybeans, peanuts, cottonseed, but also oils derived from these and other vegetable fat sources. The compositions of the present disclosure may contain at least about 9% by weight (or about 9% to about 25% by weight, or about 10% to about 20% by weight, or about 10% to about 15% by weight) of total fat, based on the total weight of the pet food composition. In some cases, the fat in the composition is crude fat. The crude lipid may be included in the composition in an amount of about 10% to about 20% by weight, about 10% to about 18% by weight, about 10% to about 16% by weight, about 12% to about 20% by weight, about 12% to about 18% by weight, or about 12% to about 16% by weight, based on the total weight of the composition. In some cases, it may be preferable that 50% by weight or more, 60% by weight or more, 70% by weight or more, 80% by weight or more, or 90% by weight or more of the total lipid is obtained from an animal source. Alternatively, 50% by weight or more, 60% by weight or more, 70% by weight or more, 80% by weight or more, or 90% by weight or more of the total lipid may be obtained from a plant source.

[0049] In some cases, the pet food composition may contain ash. The amount of ash preset in the food composition may be about 1% to about 15% by weight, about 1% to about 13% by weight, about 1% to about 11% by weight, about 1% to about 10% by weight, about 1% to about 9% by weight, about 1% to about 8% by weight, about 1% to about 7% by weight, about 1% to about 6% by weight, about 1% to about 5% by weight, about 1% to about 4% by weight, about 1% to about 3% by weight; about 3% to about 15% by weight, about 3% to about 13% by weight, about 3% to about 11% by weight, about 3% to about 10% by weight, about 3% to about 9% by weight, about 3% to about 8% by weight, about 3% to about 7% by weight, about 3% to about 6% by weight, about 3% to about 5% by weight; about 4% to about 15% by weight, about 4% to about 13% by weight, about 4% to about 11% by weight, about 4% to about 10% by weight, about 4% to about 9% by weight, about 4% to about 8% by weight, about 4% to about 7% by weight; about 5% to about 15% by weight, about 5% to about 13% by weight, about 5% to about 11% by weight, about 5% to about 10% by weight, about 5% to about 9% by weight, about 5% to about 8% by weight, about 5% to about 7% by weight, based on the weight of the pet food composition.

[0050] The pet food composition of the present disclosure can also contain one or more minerals and / or trace elements (e.g., calcium, phosphorus, sodium, potassium, magnesium, manganese, copper, zinc, chromium, molybdenum, selenium, or iron salts) having counterions such as chlorides, iodides, fluorides, sulfides, or oxides in amounts necessary to avoid deficiencies and maintain health. These amounts are known to those skilled in the art, for example, as provided in the Official Publication of the Associate of American Feed Control Officials, Inc. (“AAFCO”), Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats, 2006. Typical amounts of minerals are from about 0.1% to about 4% by weight or from about 1% to about 2% by weight based on the total weight of the pet food composition.

[0051] The pet food composition of the present invention can also contain vitamins in amounts necessary to avoid deficiencies and maintain health. These amounts and methods of measurement are known to those skilled in the art. For example, the Official Publication of the Associate of American Feed Control Officials, Inc. (“AAFCO”), Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats, 2006 provides the recommended amounts of such components for dogs and cats. As contemplated herein, vitamins include, but are not limited to, vitamin A, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B6, vitamin B 12 , vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin H (biotin), vitamin K, folic acid, choline, inositol, niacin, pantothenic acid. Typical amounts of vitamins in the composition of the present invention are from about 0 to about 3%, or from about 1% to about 2%.

[0052] The compositions of the present disclosure can additionally contain other additives, such as flavor enhancers and stabilizers, in amounts and combinations well known to those skilled in the art. Stabilizing substances include, for example, substances that tend to increase the shelf life of the composition. Other examples of such other additives that are potentially suitable for inclusion in the compositions of the present invention include, for example, preservatives, colorants, antioxidants, flavorants, synergists and scavengers, packaging gases, stabilizers, emulsifiers, thickeners, gelling agents, and wetting agents. Examples of emulsifiers and / or thickeners include, for example, gelatin, cellulose ether, starch, starch esters, starch ethers, and modified starches. The concentration of such additives in the composition can typically be up to about 5% by weight, based on the total weight of the pet food composition. In some embodiments, the concentration of such additives (particularly when such additives are primarily nutritional balance agents (such as vitamins and minerals)) is from about 0 to about 2.0% by weight, based on the total weight of the pet food composition. In some embodiments, the concentration of such additives (again particularly when such additives are primarily nutritional balance agents) is from about 0 to about 1.0% by weight, based on the total weight of the pet food composition.

[0053] In certain preferred embodiments, the pet food composition includes flax, citrus pulp, beet pulp, and cranberry pomace. The pet food composition can include flax, citrus pulp, beet pulp, and cranberry pomace in various amounts and concentrations. In certain embodiments, flax, citrus pulp, beet pulp, and cranberry pomace are present in a total amount of about 6% by weight or more, based on the weight of the pet food composition. In other embodiments, the weight ratio of flax, citrus pulp, beet pulp, and cranberry pomace is from about 2:1.5:1.5:1 to about 2.4:1.8:1.8:1. In further embodiments, the weight ratio of flax, citrus pulp, beet pulp, and cranberry pomace is from about 2:1.5:1.5:1. In certain embodiments, based on the weight of the pet food composition, flax is present at about 1.6% to about 2.4% by weight, citrus pulp is present at about 1.2% to about 1.8% by weight, beet pulp is present at about 1.2% to about 1.8% by weight, and cranberry pomace is present at about 0.8% to about 1.2% by weight. In further embodiments, based on the weight of the pet food composition, flax is present at about 2% by weight, citrus pulp is present at about 1.5% by weight, beet pulp is present at about 1.5% by weight, and cranberry pomace is present at about 1.0% by weight.

[0054] Foods of any hardness or moisture content are contemplated, for example, the compositions of the present invention can be, for example, dry, moist, or semi-moist animal food compositions. In some embodiments, the moisture content is from about 3% to about 90% by weight of the total weight of the composition. "Semi-moist" refers to a food composition containing from about 25% to about 35% moisture, based on the total weight of the pet food composition. "Moist" refers to a food composition having a moisture content of from about 60% to 90% or more, based on the total weight of the pet food composition. "Dry" food refers to a food composition having a moisture content of from about 3% to about 12% by weight, based on the total weight of the pet food composition, and is often manufactured in the form of small pieces or kibble.

[0055] In certain embodiments, the present application further discloses a method of making any of the compositions of the present disclosure. In the preparation of the compositions of the present invention in wet or canned form, any component (e.g., soluble fiber and desirable linolenic acid):(ratio of total 18-carbon polyunsaturated fatty acids) can generally be incorporated into the composition, for example, during processing of the formulation, such as during and / or after mixing of the other components of the composition. The distribution of these components into the composition can be achieved by conventional means. In some embodiments, the ground animal proteinaceous tissue and poultry proteinaceous tissue are mixed with fish oil, cereal grains, other nutritionally balanced components, other components including specialty additives (e.g., vitamin and mineral mixtures, inorganic salts, cellulose and beet pulp, bulking agents, and the like), and a sufficient amount of water is added for processing. These components can be mixed in a suitable container for heating while blending the components. The heating of the mixture can be carried out in any suitable manner, such as by direct steam injection or by using a container equipped with a heat exchanger. Following the addition of the last component, the mixture can be heated to a temperature range of about 50°F (10°C) to about 212°F (100°C). In some cases, the mixture can be heated to a temperature range of about 70°F (21°C) to about 140°F (60°C). Temperatures outside these ranges are generally also acceptable, but may be commercially impractical without using other processing aids. When heated to an appropriate temperature, the material will typically be in the form of a thick liquid. This thick liquid can be filled into cans. Once filled into the cans, lids are applied and the containers are hermetically sealed. The sealed cans are then placed in conventional equipment designed to sterilize the contents. This is usually achieved by heating to a temperature in excess of about 230°F (110°C) for an appropriate period of time, which depends, for example, on the temperature used and the composition.

[0056] The pet food composition can alternatively be prepared in dry form using conventional processes. Typically, dry ingredients such as, for example, animal proteins, plant proteins, grains, etc. are ground and mixed together. Then, wet or liquid ingredients such as fats, oils, animal proteins, water, etc. are added and mixed with the dry mixture. The mixture is then processed into kibble or similar dry pieces. Kibble is often formed using an extrusion process where the mixture of dry and wet ingredients is mechanically worked at high pressure and temperature, then extruded through small openings and cut into kibble by a rotating knife. The wet kibble is then dried and optionally coated with one or more topical coatings which may include, for example, flavorants, fats, oils, powders, and the like. Kibble can also be made from dough using a process of baking rather than extrusion, where the dough is placed in a mold and then heat treated under dry conditions.

[0057] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a method of treating, preventing, or ameliorating enteric microbiome dysbiosis in a companion animal, comprising feeding an effective amount of the composition described herein to the animal. The companion animal may be a dog or a cat.

[0058] In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides a pet food composition that alleviates enteric microbiome dysbiosis, comprising lysine, betaine, and glutamic acid present in a total amount of about 7 wt% or more based on the weight of the pet food composition, C8 fatty acid, C10 fatty acid, and omega 3 C18 fatty acid present in a total amount of about 3.3 wt% or more of the total weight based on the weight of the pet food composition, and flax, citrus pulp, beet pulp, and cranberry pomace present in a total amount of 6 wt% or more based on the weight of the pet food composition.

[0059] In certain embodiments, the present disclosure provides a method of alleviating enteric microbiome dysbiosis in a companion animal, comprising feeding any effective amount of the above composition to the animal.

Example

[0060] The examples described in this specification and other implementations are illustrative and are not intended to limit the description to the full scope of the compositions and methods of the present disclosure. Equivalent changes, modifications, and variations of specific implementations, materials, compositions, and methods may be made within the scope of the present disclosure with substantially similar results.

Example

[0061] In this test, both healthy dogs and dogs diagnosed with or suspected of having chronic gastroenteritis were used. The dogs were fed twice a day. The dogs were given a pre-feeding period of one week during which they were fed a control composition. Next, the dogs were randomly separated into either a control group or a test group and each was fed its respective food composition for four weeks. Next, a feed exchange period was conducted in which the food compositions were switched for each group, with the control group being fed the test composition and the test group being fed the control composition. The feed exchange period was maintained for four weeks. Blood and fecal samples were collected throughout the feeding period.

Table 1

Table 2

Example

[0062] Test results. Fresh feces were evaluated for subjective quality parameters according to a five-point scale. Here, 1 has no solid form and 5 is more than 80% firm. Table 3 shows the mean, SE, and statistical comparison of the t-test of fecal quality after feeding either the test or control composition to the dogs. The test food fecal score of the present invention is significantly higher than that of the control food.

Table 3

[0063] Table 4 shows the food intake from the control and test compositions. It is readily apparent that the test food composition tastes as good as the up-to-date food or the control composition. No adverse effects on taste were observed.

Table 4

[0064] Table 5 shows the biomarker results from dogs fed the food compositions.

Table 5

[0065] As shown in Table 5, dogs fed the test composition showed enhanced health benefits, as demonstrated by biomarker analysis. Fecal IgA is a marker of gut health and has a direct proportional relationship with gut health. With respect to this biomarker, the increase in IgA resulting from the test composition represents a healthier gut state. Albumin and Protein T represent the blood protein status. With respect to these biomarkers, it can be seen that the test composition improves blood proteins.

[0066] Figure 1 shows that feces from animals consuming the test composition showed higher moisture levels. Additionally, feces from dogs fed the test food were subjectively measured to have a fecal score indicating an increase in firmness by analysts blinded to diet discrimination compared to feces from animals fed the control composition (Table 3). These results indicate that feces resulting from the test food composition were firmer. In summary, the test composition resulted in higher moisture and firmer feces.

[0067] Figure 2a shows that the test composition increases glycolysis, as represented by an increase in the presence of the short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) acetate, propionate, and butyrate. All three SCFAs increased by at least 30% compared to the control composition. Figure 2b shows that the test composition decreases, or improves, colonic pH. Figure 2c shows that the test composition decreases all three bSCFAs tested, and this result is associated with a decrease in putrefaction. The decrease was at least 30% compared to the control composition.

[0068] Figure 3 shows that the test composition increases beneficial gut bacteria, which ferment fiber into short-chain fatty acids while simultaneously decreasing potential pathogenic commensals and proteolytic bacteria. Specifically, bacteria classified into the genera Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, Lachnoclostridium gnavus, Satellitella, Adlercreutzia, and Ruminococcus showed increased levels, while the genera Porphyromonas, Helicobacter pylori, Peptococcus, and Salmonella showed decreased levels.

[0069] The present invention has been described with reference to several embodiments that are described in considerable detail for the purpose of providing a complete disclosure of the invention, but such embodiments are merely exemplary and are not intended to limit or represent an exhaustive listing of all aspects of the invention. The scope of the invention should be determined from the claims appended hereto. Furthermore, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that numerous changes may be made in these details without departing from the spirit and principles of the invention.

Claims

[Claim 1] 1. A pet food composition comprising: an amino acid component comprising about 7% by weight or more of lysine, betaine, and glutamic acid and / or salts thereof, based on the total weight of the pet food composition, said amino acid component comprising about 2% to about 3.3% by weight of lysine, about 0.4% to about 0.6% by weight of betaine, and about 3% to about 4.6% by weight of glutamic acid; 1. A pet food composition comprising: a fatty acid component comprising about 3% or more by weight of fatty acids having an aliphatic tail of 6 to 12 carbons, based on the total weight of the pet food composition; and about 0.4% or more by weight of omega-3 C18 fatty acids, based on the total weight of the pet food composition.

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