Oral compositions for animals

Abstract

This disclosure aims to provide an oral composition for animals that can improve the oral environment of animals. [Solution] The present disclosure relates to an oral composition for animals comprising Tamogitake mushrooms and a plant of the genus Sasa. The oral composition for animals according to claim 1, wherein the Tamogitake mushroom is an extract of Tamogitake mushrooms. The oral composition for animals according to claim 1, wherein the plant of the genus Sasa comprises Sasa veitchii and / or Sasa kurilensis. The oral composition for animals according to claim 1, wherein the plant of the genus Sasa is an extract of a plant of the genus Sasa.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to oral compositions for animals and the like.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, companion animals such as cats and dogs have been increasing in lifestyle-related diseases in the same way as humans due to reasons such as having the same diet as humans. Among these, problems have arisen that oral diseases such as gingivitis, periodontitis, alveolar abscess, stomatitis, dental caries, and bad breath have been increasing. As one of the causes of these oral diseases, it is considered that food debris accumulates in the oral cavity, calcium in saliva and the like deposits on the tooth surface, and dental calculus is formed. When an oral disease develops, bad breath may become stronger depending on the symptoms, which may also cause problems in the relationship with the owner.

[0003] Therefore, as a treatment method for oral diseases, when the attachment of dental calculus increases and the oral symptoms deteriorate, procedures such as dental calculus removal are performed under general anesthesia. However, general anesthesia places a heavy burden on animals. As treatment and prevention methods other than the above, owners usually use toothpaste and brush their teeth with toothbrushes, gauze, etc. However, this method has problems such as being disliked by pets, taking time, and being difficult for owners to perform sufficient treatment due to unfamiliarity. Therefore, in order to solve these problems, various shaped brushes, ropes, toys with uneven surfaces, hard snacks, dry hoods with oral cleaning effects, etc. that can remove tooth stains by the pet chewing itself are commercially available. By using these, the pet will perform the treatment itself, thus reducing the burden on the owner. However, brushes, ropes, and toys with uneven surfaces cannot fully exhibit their effects when the pet gets bored. As described above, since it is difficult for companion animals to brush their teeth like humans, there is a need for drugs that can suppress or treat oral diseases such as gingivitis.

[0004] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses the incorporation of an extract from noni fruit as an ingredient to improve the oral environment into jelly, agar, candy, and tablet-shaped pet food.

[0005] Furthermore, Patent Document 2 discloses a method of applying sodium hexametaphosphate to the surface of dry food and feeding it to pets. However, since its effectiveness is insufficient, there is a need for drugs that can further suppress or treat oral diseases such as gingivitis. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2007-089414 [Patent Document 2] Special Publication No. 07-507927 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0007] This disclosure aims to provide an oral composition for animals that can improve the oral environment of animals. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] As a result of diligent research, the inventors of this invention have surprisingly discovered that a composition containing Tamogitake mushrooms and plants of the genus Sasa is effective against oral diseases in animals, and have completed the present invention.

[0009] In other words, this disclosure is as follows: Section 1. An oral composition for animals containing Pleurotus erythrosora and plants of the genus Sasa. Section 2. The oral composition for animals according to item 1, wherein the aforementioned Tamogitake is an extract of Tamogitake. Section 3. The oral animal composition according to claim 1, wherein the Sasa genus plant includes Sasa veitchii and / or Sasa kurilensis. Section 4. The oral composition for animals according to item 1, wherein the Sasa genus plant is an extract of Sasa. Section 5. An oral composition for animals according to item 1, which is for oral use, selected from the group consisting of periodontitis, gingivitis, periodontal disease, pyorrhea, stomatitis, and bad breath. Section 6. An oral composition for animals as described in item 1, for immunomodulatory purposes. Section 7. The oral animal composition according to item 6, wherein the immunomodulation is induced by suppression of the production of inflammatory cytokines. Section 8. The oral animal composition according to item 7, wherein the inflammatory cytokine is interleukin-1β (IL-1β). Section 9. An oral composition for animals, as described in item 1, for improving the intestinal environment. Section 10. An oral composition for animals as described in item 9, for suppressing the odor of excrement. Section 11. An oral composition for animals as described in item 1, for use in food and beverages, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, or quasi-drugs. Section 12. Food and beverages containing the oral animal composition described in item 1. Section 13. A feed containing the oral animal composition described in item 1. Section 14. Pet food containing the animal oral composition described in item 1. Section 15. A pharmaceutical or quasi-drug containing the animal oral composition described in item 1. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] This disclosure provides an oral composition for animals that can improve the oral environment of animals. Furthermore, the oral composition for animals can also improve the intestinal environment of animals. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows a photo (left) of the oral composition for animals of Example 1 in the present disclosure before administration to a cat that is an individual with severe gingivitis, and a photo (right) after 8 administrations. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a diagram showing the change amount of the gingivitis index (GI) for the oral compositions for animals of Example 1 and Example 2 and Comparative Example 1 (control group) in the present disclosure. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a diagram showing the results of a questionnaire survey conducted on the owner regarding whether the bad breath of a dog could be reduced after administration of the oral composition for animals of Example 3 in the present disclosure. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a diagram showing a comparison (synergistic effect) of the change amount of the gingivitis index (GI) between the oral composition for animals of Example 4 and Comparative Example 2 (single agent) in the present disclosure. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a diagram showing the results of a questionnaire survey conducted on the owner regarding whether the fecal odor of a dog could be reduced after administration of the oral composition for animals of Example 5 in the present disclosure. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a diagram showing the results of a questionnaire survey conducted on the owner regarding whether the fecal odor of a cat could be reduced after administration of the oral composition for animals of Example 5 in the present disclosure.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0012] Hereinafter, the oral composition for animals of the present disclosure will be described in detail. Here, the oral composition for animals of the present disclosure may sometimes be simply referred to as an oral composition. Composition for animal oral cavity The oral composition for animals of the present disclosure contains Phellinus linteus and plants of the genus Sasa.

[0013] Tamogitake mushroom The oral composition for animals of the present disclosure contains Phellinus linteus as an active ingredient together with plants of the genus Sasa. Pleurotus cornucopiae var. citrinopileatus is a mushroom belonging to the genus Pleurotus in the family Pleurotaceae, order Pleurotales, subclass Pleurotaeniae, subclass Basidiomycetes, subclass Cetaceae, suborder Pleurotales. Pleurotus cornucopiae is characterized by its bright yellow cap and is widely consumed as food, mainly in Hokkaido. Here, Pleurotus cornucopiae is also called Tamogitake (Tamogi Mushroom).

[0014] In this disclosure, the Tamogitake mushroom may be one that grows naturally or one that is cultivated artificially. Furthermore, the Tamogitake mushroom may be fresh, dried, or processed after harvesting, such as being powdered after drying.

[0015] Furthermore, in the oral animal composition of this disclosure, an extract of Tamogitake mushroom (Tamogitake extract) can be used as Tamogitake. Examples of the Tamogitake extract include aqueous solvent extracts of Tamogitake mushrooms and organic solvent extracts of Tamogitake mushrooms. Preferably, the Tamogitake extract is an aqueous solvent extract of Tamogitake. An aqueous solvent extract of Tamogitake refers to a mixture of one or more substances selected from liquid, semi-solid, or solid substances that contain components extracted from Tamogitake with an aqueous solvent.

[0016] In this disclosure, the term "aqueous solvent" is not particularly limited as long as it is a solvent mainly composed of a polar solvent, and may consist of one type of solvent or a mixture of two or more types of solvents.

[0017] Examples of such polar solvents include water, methanol, ethanol, acetic acid, formic acid, 1-butanol, 1-propanol, and 2-propanol. Water is preferred as the polar solvent.

[0018] Furthermore, in this disclosure, the aqueous solvent may be water or an aqueous solvent prepared by pre-mixing or dissolving a suitable solute in the aqueous solvent. Examples of such aqueous solvents include water mixed with or dissolved citric acid, water mixed with or dissolved sodium bicarbonate, and sodium chloride mixed with or dissolved in acetic acid. As the aqueous solvent, aqueous solutions of citric acid, sodium bicarbonate, and sodium chloride acetic acid are preferred. In this disclosure, the aqueous solvent may be acidic, neutral, or basic. The temperature of the aqueous solvent is also not particularly limited, as long as its function is not impaired, and may be low temperature, room temperature, or high temperature. In this disclosure, hot water can be used as a suitable aqueous solvent.

[0019] In this disclosure, an aqueous solvent extract of Tamogitake mushrooms can be produced by conventional methods. For example, an aqueous solvent extract of Tamogitake mushrooms can be produced by adding Tamogitake mushrooms to an aqueous solvent, heating or grinding and stirring, then separating the solid and liquid components by filtration or the like, and recovering the liquid components.

[0020] Specifically, the active ingredients are extracted from the harvested Tamogitake mushrooms. The extraction is preferably carried out by hot water extraction. For example, the harvested Tamogitake mushrooms are placed in boiling water 2 to 30 times their weight, preferably 5 to 20 times, and stirred while adding steam. The aqueous solvent extract is extracted while stirring for 10 minutes after boiling. The obtained aqueous solvent extract may be used as is, or it may be filtered to remove solids. Furthermore, the prepared aqueous solvent extract of Tamogitake mushrooms may be subjected to ultrafiltration, sonication, etc. Such ultrafiltered products (filtrate and filtrate), sonicated products, etc., are also included in the aqueous solvent extract of Tamogitake mushrooms. Furthermore, the aqueous solvent extract of Tamogitake mushrooms may be concentrated as appropriate using a vacuum concentrator, freeze concentrator, etc. In addition, to preserve the aqueous solvent extract of Tamogitake mushrooms for a long period of time, it may be sealed in a retort pack and then sterilized, for example, at 120°C for 15 minutes, or it may be powdered by freeze-drying or spray-drying.

[0021] Examples of commercially available extracts of Tamogitake mushrooms include BioGod (registered trademark, Three B Co., Ltd.), etc. Tamogitake extract can also be referred to as Tamogitake extract, Tamogitake extract solution, Tamogitake extract liquid, etc.

[0022] Examples of grinding methods include crushing with a roller-type grinder, cutting with a food processor, grinding with a ball mill, and crushing by impact with a hammer-type grinder. Examples of purification methods include filtration, distillation, recrystallization, reprecipitation, and various chromatography methods. Examples of concentration methods include boiling concentration, vacuum concentration (reduced pressure concentration) using an evaporator, freeze concentration, and membrane concentration using reverse osmosis membranes. Examples of sterilization methods include autoclaving, high-frequency sterilization, and filter filtration.

[0023] For example, an aqueous solvent extract of Tamogitake mushrooms includes at least an extraction step of extracting Tamogitake extract to obtain an extract, and a concentration step of concentrating the extracted extract. Furthermore, the extract may include a step of appropriately diluting the obtained concentrate according to its intended use.

[0024] The components contained in the Tamogitake extract include β-D-glucans and ergothioneine.

[0025] Specifically, after harvesting the Tamogitake mushrooms, if the quantity is sufficient, boil them in tap water at 1 atmosphere and 100°C for 30 minutes. If the harvest is insufficient, store them in the refrigerator and boil them together with the next harvest in the same manner as above. After boiling, filter the contents and send them to a concentration device.

[0026] The concentration process for concentrating the extracted extract is not particularly limited and can be carried out using known concentration devices such as flash concentrates (vacuum concentration). Specifically, the concentration can be reduced from 1 atmosphere to a reduced boiling point and then boiled to remove water by distillation. The concentration of the concentrated Tamogitake extract is not particularly limited and can be, for example, 0.1 to 50 Brix, and can be diluted according to the application.

[0027] Plants of the Sasa genus The oral animal composition disclosed herein contains, along with *Pleurotus ostreatus*, as an active ingredient.

[0028] The genus Sasa used in this disclosure refers to plants belonging to the genus Sasa in the subfamily Bambusoideae of the family Poaceae. Plants belonging to the genus Sasa include, for example, the sections Sasa kurilensis, Sasa nambus, Sasa amagi, Sasa japonica, Sasa miyakoensis, and Sasa kurilensis. Examples of plants belonging to the genus Sasa include Sasa japonica, Sasa katsuragis, Sasa sieboldii, Sasa miyakoensis, Sasa sasa var. japonica, Sasa kurilensis, Sasa japonica var. japonica, Sasa kurilensis, Sasa kurilensis, and Sasa kurilensis. Among these, Sasa kurilensis is the most preferred.

[0029] Here, *Sasa senanensis* (Fr. et Sav.) Rehder belongs to the genus *Sasa* in the grass family (Poaceae). *Sasa senanensis* is a plant endemic to Japan and is a species of bamboo belonging to the subfamily Bambusoideae of the grass family (Poaceae), which is related to bamboo.

[0030] Kumazasa is also known by other names (common names) such as Kumazasa, Kyumaizasa, and Kumazasa. Furthermore, there are many similar species, and the classification of Kumazasa is often confused. Sasa species belonging to the same Sasa genus as Kumazasa, such as Chishimazasa (Sasa kurilensis), Suzutake (Sasamorpha borealis), Kumazasa (Sasa senanensis), Chimakizasa (Sasa palmata), and Miyakozasa (Sasa niponica), are sometimes called Kumazasa. Therefore, the Sasa genus plants of the Bambusoideae subfamily of the grass family disclosed here may include not just one of the plants listed above, but two or more Sasa species.

[0031] The plants of the genus Sasa may be those that grow naturally or those that have been cultivated artificially. Furthermore, the plants of the genus Sasa may be fresh, dried, or processed after harvesting, such as dried and powdered.

[0032] For use in the oral animal compositions of this disclosure, an extract of a Sasa plant can be used. Preferably, the extract is an aqueous solvent extract of a Sasa plant. In particular, an aqueous extract of Sasa collected in the Teshio Mountains of Hokkaido from July to October is preferred.

[0033] Examples of commercially available aqueous solvent extracts of plants of the genus Sasa include Rio Herbal®, a Sasa extract described in Japanese Patent No. 3983233. Extracts of plants of the genus Sasa can be referred to as bamboo subfamily extract, bamboo subfamily extract, bamboo subfamily extract solution, Sasa extract, Sasa extract solution, Sasa extract, etc. Extracts of Sasa plants are not particularly limited. For example, they may be obtained by steaming leaves and / or culms of Sasa plants (or bamboo grass) with a moisture content of 10% or less by mass relative to the total amount of leaves and / or culms, using dry steam whose dryness has been improved by a pressure reducing valve and a gas-liquid separation device, at 160-190°C for 30 seconds to 1 hour, and then extracting with an aqueous solvent; or by high-pressure steaming of the raw material and then extracting with pressurized hot water.

[0034] For steaming, the leaves and / or culms of Sasa genus plants or Sasa bamboo are preferably dried. The preferred moisture content is 10% or less of the total moisture content of the leaves and / or culms. The form of the bamboo leaves and / or culms used in the steaming method of this invention is preferably in the form of finely chopped pieces. The preferred size is 0.5 to 20 mm.

[0035] The equipment used for steaming should be capable of withstanding high temperatures and pressures. The preferred steaming temperature is 160-190°C. The steaming time is preferably between 30 seconds and 1 hour, and more preferably between 5 minutes and 20 minutes.

[0036] When releasing the pressure after steaming is complete, it is preferable to quickly open the device to atmospheric pressure, as this further breaks down the tissue of the bamboo leaves or culms, thereby improving extraction efficiency.

[0037] The steam used for steaming is most preferably from a device that has a gas-liquid separator and a pressure reducing valve installed in the steam piping connecting the steam source (such as a boiler) to the steaming apparatus. Using such a device improves the dryness of the steam. The higher the dryness and the less condensed water (called drain) there is from the steam, the more efficiently specific components can be extracted and the amount of sugars extracted can be appropriately controlled. Since there is no simple method for measuring the dryness of steam, it is difficult to measure it directly in a typical manufacturing apparatus. Therefore, in order to obtain dry steam, it is preferable to use a gas-liquid separator that has been confirmed to achieve a dryness of 99% or more using a dryness measurement system owned by a gas-liquid separator manufacturer or the like. There are centrifugal and baffle types of gas-liquid separators, but the baffle type is preferred because it can stably achieve a high dryness regardless of the amount of steam.

[0038] If air remains in the steaming apparatus during steaming, contact between the dry steam and the leaves or culms of the Sasa genus (or Sasa bamboo) is inhibited, resulting in insufficient steaming and a decrease in extraction efficiency, which is undesirable. To avoid air retention, steam can be introduced with a manual or automatic air release valve open to expel the air from the steaming apparatus. The steam temperature for expelling the air should be between 80 and 200°C, preferably between 100 and 180°C. The time for expelling the air should be between 0.5 and 60 minutes.

[0039] There are no particular limitations on the extraction method using an aqueous solvent. For example, after steaming, an aqueous solvent may be added while the material is cooled or the temperature is maintained, and the steamed bamboo leaves or culms may be immersed in the aqueous solvent under conditions ranging from room temperature to 180°C.

[0040] The aqueous solvent is preferably a water-soluble solvent such as methanol, ethanol, or acetone, or an aqueous solution thereof, or water. Depending on the application of the bamboo extract, the extraction efficiency can be increased by using an alkaline aqueous solution as the aqueous solvent. The alkaline aqueous solution is not particularly limited, but aqueous solutions of sodium hydroxide, potassium hydroxide, sodium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, ammonium bicarbonate, etc. are preferred.

[0041] The steaming process and the extraction process may be repeated, to the extent that they do not depart from the spirit of this disclosure. In addition, other processes, such as holding processes, may be provided before or after each process.

[0042] Although the mechanism by which phenylpropanoids, acetic acid, formic acid, and 3-hydroxypyridine contained in Sasa genus plant extracts or Sasa extracts exert antibacterial or antimutagenic effects is not yet clear, it is presumed that they exert a greater effect than each component alone due to their synergistic effect.

[0043] Phenylpropanoids contained in Sasa genus plant extracts or Sasa extracts include coumaric acid, ferulic acid, caffeic acid, and vanillin. Coumaric acid is the most abundant, followed by ferulic acid. For Sasa extracts to be effective as antibacterial agents or antimutagenic agents, the total amount of phenylpropanoids should be 0.5 mg / g or more, and preferably, a concentration of 1 mg / g or more of coumaric acid alone can be used to obtain high antibacterial and antimutagenic properties.

[0044] The acetic acid and formic acid content in the Sasa genus plant extract or Sasa extract must be 0.5 mg / g or more each, preferably 5 mg / g or more formic acid alone, and more preferably 10 mg / g or more formic acid alone.

[0045] The 3-hydroxypyridine contained in the Sasa genus plant extract or Sasa extract is presumed to be a substance produced when Sasa leaves and / or culms are steamed, although the detailed synthesis route is unknown. The required content of 3-hydroxypyridine as an antibacterial or antimutagenic agent is 0.5 mg / g or more, preferably 1 mg / g or more, and more preferably 2 mg / g or more.

[0046] The sugars contained in the Sasa genus plant extract or Sasa extract are monosaccharides and / or polysaccharides composed of xylose, arabinose, glucose, mannose, galactose, etc. When the heat residue is prepared to 40-60% by weight, the preferred sugar content is 50 mg / g or less.

[0047] Phenylenoids, acetic acid, formic acid, and 3-hydroxypyridine can be quantified using liquid chromatography, gas chromatography, etc. Sugars can be quantified using ion chromatography.

[0048] The form of the Sasa plant extract or Sasa extract of the present invention may be a solution, a solid, or a mixture with other compounds. If it is a mixture, it may be subjected to treatments such as spray drying, freeze-drying, or the addition of a shaping agent such as dextrin. Furthermore, it may undergo selection processes such as filtration, column purification, or solvent washing.

[0049] In the oral animal composition disclosed herein, the content of Sasa plants is, for example, 0.1 to 10,000 parts by mass, preferably 1 to 1,000 parts by mass, more preferably 10 to 200 parts by mass, and particularly preferably 80 to 120 parts by mass, per 100 parts by mass of Tamogitake mushroom. In the animal oral composition disclosed herein, the content of the Sasa plant extract is, for example, 0.1 to 10,000 parts by mass, preferably 1 to 1,000 parts by mass, more preferably 10 to 200 parts by mass, and particularly preferably 80 to 120 parts by mass, per 100 parts by mass of the Tamogitake extract. In the oral animal composition disclosed herein, a synergistic effect can be achieved by including both Tamogitake mushrooms and Sasa genus plants.

[0050] The oral animal compositions disclosed herein may contain only the active ingredients, Pleurotus ostreatus and Sasa genus plants, but may further contain other optional ingredients as long as they do not interfere with the effects of the disclosure. Optional ingredients Other optional components are not particularly limited and may include, for example, pharmaceutically acceptable components (e.g., excipients, binders, lubricants, disintegrants, emulsifiers, surfactants, bases, solubilizers, suspending agents, etc.), food-acceptable components (e.g., minerals, vitamins, flavonoids, quinones, polyphenols, amino acids, nucleic acids, essential fatty acids, cooling agents, binders, sweeteners, disintegrants, lubricants, colorants, flavorings, stabilizers, preservatives, sustained-release regulators, surfactants, solvents, wetting agents, etc.), and biologically acceptable carriers.

[0051] A bioacceptable carrier includes a carrier that is inactive to the organism to which the oral animal composition is administered. An inert carrier to living organisms is one that does not interfere with the normal functions of the organism. Normal biological functions include metabolic functions, reproductive functions, motor functions, and neural functions. For example, components that are metabolized by the normal metabolic functions of an organism are included in biologically acceptable carriers. Alternatively, components that are not digested or metabolized, or are metabolized with minimal effort, and that do not interfere with the functions of the organism are all included in biologically acceptable carriers.

[0052] The oral animal compositions disclosed herein can be in any form, such as solid (powder), gel, or liquid. The oral animal compositions disclosed herein can also be made into a gel or liquid by adding a suitable solvent, such as water, at the time of ingestion. Furthermore, the oral animal compositions disclosed herein can be distributed in a frozen state.

[0053] Furthermore, the oral animal compositions disclosed herein may optionally contain additional components such as fragrances, colorants, flavorings, sweeteners, and seasonings. Known components with known preventive or therapeutic effects on periodontal disease can also be combined with the oral animal compositions disclosed herein. In addition, in oral animal compositions containing a chewable carrier, plant fibers or the like may be further added to provide a tooth-brushing effect.

[0054] In the oral animal composition disclosed herein, the content of Tamogitake mushrooms and Sasa genus plants can be formulated to be approximately 0.03 to 0.07 g per animal per dose, preferably about 0.04 to 0.06 g per day. When incorporating the aforementioned oral composition for animals into animal feed, the amount of Tamogitake mushrooms and Sasa genus plants to be incorporated into the feed can be determined based on the body weight of the animal to be administered the oral composition for animals of this disclosure and the daily feed intake.

[0055] The oral compositions for animals of this disclosure can achieve either the preventive effect or the therapeutic effect, or both, of oral diseases by being administered orally to an animal. Specifically, this disclosure provides a method for either the preventive effect or the therapeutic effect, or both, of oral diseases, comprising the step of administering a composition containing Pleurotus erythrosora and Sasa genus plants orally. In particular, a method for the preventive or therapeutic effect of oral diseases comprising the step of administering a composition containing Pleurotus erythrosora and Sasa genus plants orally to a human or non-human animal is a preferred embodiment of this disclosure. The compositions disclosed herein can be administered to the oral cavity of mammals in any form, such as solid, paste, gel, or liquid. Solid formulations can be administered by chewing or swallowing. Solid formulations can also be administered orally as oral tablets (so-called lozenges). Paste or gel formulations can be administered by chewing or swallowing, as well as by application to oral tissue. Liquid formulations can be administered by swallowing, as well as by spraying into the oral cavity, mouthwash, or gargling.

[0056] The dosage of the oral animal composition containing Tamogitake mushrooms and Sasa genus plants according to this disclosure can be appropriately set within the above range depending on the health condition of the animal ingesting it, the method of administration, and the combination with other agents.

[0057] The oral animal compositions disclosed herein may be administered once a day, or divided into multiple doses, such as twice a day or three times a day, as long as the daily amount of the active ingredient is within the range described above.

[0058] The oral animal compositions disclosed herein may be in any form, such as solid (solid composition), liquid, or paste. The forms of the oral animal compositions disclosed herein may be, for example, uncoated tablets, sugar-coated tablets, granules, powders, tablets, capsules (hard capsules, soft capsules, seamless capsules, etc.). The oral animal compositions disclosed herein can be prepared, for example, by mixing the active ingredients, such as Pleurotus ostreatus and Sasa genus plants, with other components as needed and forming them into the above dosage forms.

[0059] animal Examples of mammals for which the oral animal compositions described herein are administered include pets such as dogs and cats, mammals kept in zoos, and humans. Mammals include, for example, pigs, wild boars, goats, sheep, horses, cows, deer, donkeys, reindeer, rabbits, monkeys, gorillas, orangutans, chimpanzees, sloths, elephants, giraffes, rhinos, hippos, tapirs, wolves, hyenas, bears, pandas, red pandas, civets, foxes, raccoons, tigers, lions, leopards, cheetahs, otters, seals, sea lions, sea lions, dolphins, orcas, and whales. Here, humans are also included in the category of mammals. In this disclosure, "oral composition for animals" refers to a composition intended for administration into the oral cavity of the animal. Furthermore, "oral composition for animals" in this disclosure may also be referred to as "oral composition."

[0060] Purpose The oral compositions for animals described herein can be used to improve, alleviate, prevent, or treat oral diseases or symptoms. Specifically, oral diseases or their symptoms include periodontitis, gingivitis, periodontal disease, pyorrhea, stomatitis, and bad breath. In other words, the oral compositions for animals of this disclosure can be suitably used in oral care agents, for example, as anti-inflammatory agents. The oral compositions for animals of this disclosure can be rephrased as periodontitis inhibitors, gingivitis inhibitors, periodontal disease inhibitors, pyorrhea inhibitors, stomatitis inhibitors, bad breath inhibitors, etc. Periodontitis is a disease in which inflammation occurs in the tissues that support the teeth (gums, alveolar bone, and other periodontal tissues), and it is a result of gingivitis progressing. If left untreated, the bone supporting the teeth can be destroyed, and the teeth may fall out. Gingivitis is a condition in which inflammation occurs in the gums. This is an early stage of periodontal disease, caused by plaque, and is characterized by swelling or bleeding. Generally, it can be cured with early care. Periodontal disease, synonymous with periodontitis, is a disease of the tissues that support the teeth. Gingivitis progresses to periodontitis, and further progression leads to the destruction of the alveolar bone, causing teeth to fall out. Periodontitis is a condition in which periodontal disease progresses and pus is discharged from the gums. It is a serious stage in which the bone supporting the teeth is significantly damaged, and early intervention is necessary. Stomatitis is an inflammation or ulcer that develops on the mucous membrane inside the mouth. Causes include stress, nutritional deficiencies, and a weakened immune system. Bad breath is often caused by oral problems such as periodontal disease, gingivitis, and stomatitis. Other factors such as gastrointestinal problems, diet, and smoking can also contribute. Furthermore, the aforementioned oral symptoms include various symptoms related to oral health problems or oral diseases, such as bleeding gums, redness, swelling, pus, pain, itchiness, and stickiness in the mouth.

[0061] Known pathogens of oral health problems or diseases include, for example, the genus Porphyromonas, such as Porphyromonas gingivalis; the genus Prevotella, such as Prevotella intermedia; and the genus Treponema, such as Treponema denticola. For example, since periodontal disease is caused by specific oral bacteria as described above, suppressing the number of these pathogenic bacteria is also included in the alleviation, prevention, or treatment of oral health problems or diseases.

[0062] The oral animal compositions described herein can be used as immunomodulatory compositions. Furthermore, the oral animal compositions described herein can be rephrased as immunostimulators, immunostimulants, etc. The oral animal compositions described herein can also be rephrased as immunomodulators, immunostimulants, etc. Here, immunomodulation is known to be caused by the suppression of inflammatory cytokine production. The inflammatory cytokines are not particularly limited and are selected from the group consisting of, for example, interleukin-1α, interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-2, interleukin-3, interleukin-4, interleukin-5, interleukin-6, interleukin-7, interleukin-8, interleukin-9, interleukin-10, interleukin-11, interleukin-12, interleukin-13, interleukin-14, interleukin-15, interleukin-16, interleukin-17, interleukin-18, and leukemia inhibitors (LIFs).

[0063] The oral animal compositions described herein can be used to improve the intestinal environment. These oral animal compositions can also be described as intestinal environment improving agents.

[0064] The oral animal compositions described herein can be used to suppress the odor of excrement. Examples of such excrement odors include fecal odor and urine odor. The oral animal compositions described herein can be rephrased as excrement odor suppressants, fecal odor suppressants, etc.

[0065] The oral animal compositions described herein can be used to improve the shine and luster of animal coats. These oral animal compositions can be rephrased as animal coat shine improving agents, etc.

[0066] Furthermore, the oral animal compositions described herein can be used in applications such as food and beverages, pharmaceuticals (including quasi-drugs), and cosmetics.

[0067] The oral animal compositions disclosed herein can be used as food and beverages, pharmaceuticals (including quasi-drugs), and cosmetics themselves, as well as added to food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, quasi-drugs, and cosmetics.

[0068] Foods, beverages, or pharmaceuticals (including quasi-drugs) comprising the animal oral composition disclosed herein, or foods, beverages, or pharmaceuticals (including quasi-drugs) containing the animal oral composition disclosed herein, may be for animal oral use. "For oral use" can be rephrased as "oral care."

[0069] food and drink The food and beverages described in this disclosure contain Tamogitake mushrooms and Sasa genus plants as active ingredients. Here, "food and drink" includes beverages and / or food. Furthermore, "food and drink" also includes animal feed. Therefore, "food and drink" includes animal feed (including pet food such as dog food and cat food), health foods (including animal health foods), functional foods, nutritional supplements (including animal nutritional supplements), supplements (including animal supplements), and foods for specified health uses. "Food and drink" can be rephrased as "food and drink composition."

[0070] When using the animal oral composition disclosed herein as food or beverage itself, or added to food or beverage, the form of the food or beverage is not particularly limited and may include, for example, beverages (soft drinks such as coffee, juice, tea drinks, and jelly drinks, milk drinks, lactic acid bacteria drinks, yogurt drinks, carbonated drinks, etc.), spreads (custard cream, etc.), pastes (fruit paste, etc.), Western-style confectionery (chocolate, donuts, pies, cream puffs, gum, jelly, candy, cookies, cakes, puddings, etc.), Japanese-style confectionery (daifuku, mochi, manju, castella, anmitsu, yokan, etc.), frozen desserts (ice cream, ice pops, sherbet, etc.), food products (curry, beef bowl, rice porridge, miso soup, soup, meat sauce, pasta, pickles, jam, etc.), and seasonings (dressings, furikake, umami seasonings, soup bases, etc.).

[0071] When the animal oral composition of this disclosure is used as a food or beverage in which the tertiary function of the food or beverage is emphasized (for example, a health food, a food with functional claims (functional food), a nutritional supplement, a supplement, or a food for specified health uses) itself, or added to a food or beverage in which the tertiary function of the food or beverage is emphasized, the form of the food or beverage in which the tertiary function of the food or beverage is emphasized may be, in addition to the forms of food or beverages described above, for example, plain tablets, sugar-coated tablets, granules, powders, tablets, capsules (hard capsules, soft capsules, seamless capsules, etc.).

[0072] The above-mentioned food and beverages may use the aforementioned Tamogitake mushrooms and Sasa genus plants as they are, and may also contain, as necessary, excipients, vitamins, minerals, flavonoids, quinones, polyphenols, amino acids, nucleic acids, essential fatty acids, cooling agents, binders, sweeteners, disintegrants, lubricants, colorants, flavorings, stabilizers, preservatives, sustained-release regulators, surfactants, glazing agents, solvents, wetting agents, etc.

[0073] The aforementioned food and beverages include all food and beverages that can be ingested by mammals (including humans). Examples of the aforementioned food and beverage compositions include dairy products; fermented foods (yogurt, cheese, etc.); beverages (soft drinks such as coffee, juice, cocoa, tea drinks, sports drinks, and nutritional drinks, milk drinks, lactic acid bacteria drinks, lactic acid bacteria drinks, yogurt drinks, carbonated drinks, sake, Western liquors, and fruit wines, etc.); spreads (custard cream, etc.); pastes (fruit paste, etc.); Western-style confectionery (chocolate, donuts, pies, cream puffs, gum, gummies, jelly, candy, cookies, cakes, puddings, biscuits, etc.); frozen desserts (ice cream, ice pops, sherbet, etc.); food products (curry, beef bowl, rice porridge, miso soup, soup, meat sauce, pasta, pickles, jam, ham, sausage, bacon, etc.); and seasonings (dressings, furikake, umami seasonings, soup bases, miso, soy sauce, sauces, ketchup, oyster sauce, etc.).

[0074] The method for producing the aforementioned food and beverages is not particularly limited and can be carried out according to any known method as appropriate.

[0075] There are no particular restrictions on the dosage form when used as a supplement, and it can be selected as appropriate, but examples include tablets, capsules, granules, liquids, and powders.

[0076] When animal feed is given specifically to pets, it is called pet food. There are no particular limitations to what constitutes pet food; examples include cat food, dog food, etc. A pet is defined as a non-human animal kept for the purpose of appreciation or companionship. Therefore, animals raised for purposes such as meat, eggs, fur, or milk are generally considered livestock and are distinguished from pets. However, working animals, such as police dogs and guide dogs, may be given the same feed as companion animals. Even if the purpose of raising them is for work, if they are the same species as pets and are given the same feed as pets, that feed is included in the definition of pet food in this disclosure. Furthermore, the term "food and drink" in this disclosure also includes pet food and supplements. When supplements are used for animals, they include animal supplements.

[0077] The food and beverages in this disclosure may contain not only Tamogitake mushrooms and Sasa plants, but also any other components that are ingested as food or feed for mammals, in addition to Tamogitake mushrooms and Sasa plants. The oral animal compositions of this disclosure may further contain carriers that are acceptable as food, pet food, or supplements. Such carriers are not particularly limited and include, for example, conventionally known food additives such as preservatives, antioxidants, sweeteners, colorants, flavorings, humectants, and seasonings.

[0078] The oral animal compositions disclosed herein may be used as additives to other foods and beverages. The oral animal compositions disclosed herein can be combined with ingredients widely used in foods and beverages, pet food, or supplements, such as grains, vegetables, fruits, meat, fish, milk, eggs, etc.

[0079] Generally, food and beverages contain carbohydrates, proteins, minerals, fats, water, dietary fiber, etc. Many of their raw materials are animal or plant tissues, microbial cells, and processed products thereof. Processed products refer to products obtained from these materials through heating, drying, freeze-drying, extraction, etc. A series of processes to obtain processed products can also involve combining multiple different steps. Food and beverages may also contain additional ingredients such as bulking agents, binders, and viscosity modifiers, depending on their form. These ingredients can be either naturally derived or synthetically produced. As described above, the oral composition for animals according to this disclosure can also be obtained by mixing Tamogitake mushrooms and Sasa plants into food and beverages that do not contain Tamogitake mushrooms and Sasa plants when consuming them. Specifically, for example, the animal oral composition of this disclosure can be used by mixing it with pet food (for example, by sprinkling it on) before giving pet food to a companion animal. Furthermore, the food and beverages described herein can also be obtained by adding Tamogitake mushrooms and Sasa genus plants to the materials used as food and beverages. There are no particular limitations on the amount of the oral animal composition in food or beverages. For example, in the case of pet food, the amount will vary depending on the amount of pet food, the type and size of the pet, etc. However, the oral animal composition of this disclosure can be mixed into pet food in the above-mentioned amounts.

[0080] The amount of food and beverages consumed can be appropriately determined according to various conditions such as the individual's weight, age, gender, and symptoms.

[0081] The amount of the oral animal composition containing Tamogitake mushrooms and Sasa genus plants added to food and beverages in this disclosure is not particularly limited, but is usually 3 to 7 g per animal per dose, preferably 4 to 6 g per animal per day. In other words, the food and beverages in this disclosure may contain an oral animal composition containing 0.03 to 0.07 g, preferably 0.04 to 0.06 g, of Tamogitake mushrooms and Sasa genus plants per animal, relative to the standard daily intake of a food and beverage composition or feed composition.

[0082] If the food or beverage in this disclosure is a nonessential food such as chewing gum, the dosage of the oral animal composition containing Tamogitake mushrooms and Sasa plants can be controlled by indicating the daily intake of the food according to the amount of the oral animal composition containing Tamogitake mushrooms and Sasa plants. For example, if the daily dosage is incorporated into one piece of chewing gum, it is recommended that the daily intake of chewing gum be one piece.

[0083] The food and beverages described herein can be formulated into conventionally known forms such as tablets, orally disintegrating tablets, chewable tablets, capsules, granules, powders, and oral liquids by conventionally known methods.

[0084] When the food or beverage in this disclosure is in the form of tablets, orally disintegrating tablets, chewable tablets, or capsules, various additives for forming the tablets may be added, such as excipients like crystalline cellulose, binders and disintegrants like gelatin, corn starch, tragacanth, and gum arabic, lubricants like magnesium stearate, and other nutrients.

[0085] When the food or beverage in this disclosure is an oral liquid preparation, it can be blended with water, juice, etc.

[0086] The oral animal composition containing Tamogitake mushrooms and Sasa plants in this disclosure can be combined with a chewable carrier to form a chewable oral composition. A masticatory carrier is a component that, when administered to an animal's oral cavity, is chewed. A masticatory carrier can be a material that is easily chewed, or it can be a material that is difficult to break down into small fragments through chewing. There are no particular limitations on the chewable carriers, and examples include glucose, sucrose, maltose, sorbitol, xylitol, trehalose, starch, gelatin, alginic acid, alginate, cellulose, ethylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, guar gum (polygalactomannan), glucomannan, xanthan gum, and carbopol.

[0087] Furthermore, various gum bases are also included in the chewable carriers of this disclosure. Generally, gum bases utilize carriers that maintain a constant volume even when chewed in the mouth for an extended period of time. There are no particular limitations on the gum base; examples include plant-based resins, chicle, vinyl acetate resin, ester gum, polyisobutylene, calcium carbonate, and jelton (pontianac).

[0088] When the chewable oral composition in this disclosure is used as a pharmaceutical, it is a chewable pharmaceutical composition; when it is provided as food or beverage, it is a chewable food. Furthermore, when the oral composition for animals in this disclosure is used as a chewable feed, it becomes a chewable feed composition. Furthermore, in non-human animals, the size of the chewable oral composition can be adjusted to induce chewing behavior. Specifically, by processing it to a size that cannot be swallowed in one bite, chewing behavior can be induced in non-human animals. Additionally, increasing the hardness to suit the animal can induce even more chewing behavior.

[0089] The oral animal composition containing Pleurotus erythrosora and Sasa genus plants in this disclosure can also be compounded with a paste-like carrier to form a paste-like oral composition. That is, this disclosure provides an oral composition comprising Pleurotus erythrosora, Sasa genus plants, and a paste-like carrier. Paste-like carriers include carriers with a semi-solid consistency, gel-like carriers, and the like.

[0090] The paste-like oral composition is not particularly limited and can be prepared, for example, by adding a solvent such as water to a water-soluble polysaccharide or polymer compound. Examples of water-soluble polysaccharides or polymer compounds include glucose, sucrose, maltose, sorbitol, xylitol, starch, gelatin, pectin, alginic acid, alginate, cellulose, ethylcellulose, carboxymethylcellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, guar gum (polygalactomannan), glucomannan, carrageenan, xanthan gum, tamarind gum, carbopol, agarose, and agar. In addition, polymer compounds such as polyethylene glycol and polyvinylpyrrolidone can also be incorporated into the oral animal composition of this disclosure as a gel-like carrier.

[0091] Paste-like or gel-like oral compositions for animals can be administered, for example, by applying them to oral tissues. Oral tissues include the gums, teeth, sublingual area, buccal cavity, or buccal mucosa. For example, application to the gums is preferred because it allows direct administration to periodontal disease lesions. Application to the buccal cavity is also a preferred method of administration. Application of paste-like compositions to oral tissues is an administration method that can also be applied to non-human animals. As a primary method of administration to humans, the animal oral composition disclosed herein can also be administered as toothpaste. That is, a toothpaste containing Pleurotus erythrosora and Sasa genus plants can be used as the animal oral composition disclosed herein. Of course, it goes without saying that the animal oral composition disclosed herein can also be administered as toothpaste to non-human animals if they accept toothpaste.

[0092] Pharmaceuticals or quasi-drugs The pharmaceuticals or quasi-drugs disclosed herein include the above-mentioned Pleurotus ostreatus and Sasa genus plants. The aforementioned pharmaceuticals or quasi-drugs may use only Tamogitake mushrooms and Sasa genus plants, or they may be used in combination with other medicinal ingredients listed in the Japanese Pharmacopoeia, such as vitamins and herbal medicines.

[0093] When the animal oral composition disclosed herein is used as a pharmaceutical or quasi-drug itself, or added to a pharmaceutical or quasi-drug, the form of the pharmaceutical or quasi-drug is not particularly limited and may be, for example, uncoated tablets, sugar-coated tablets, granules, powders, tablets, capsules (hard capsules, soft capsules, seamless capsules, etc.).

[0094] Specifically, when preparing the oral animal composition of this disclosure as a pharmaceutical product, the Tamogitake mushroom and Sasa plants can be prepared together with a non-toxic carrier, diluent, or excipient acceptable in pharmaceuticals, in the form of tablets (including uncoated tablets, sugar-coated tablets, effervescent tablets, film-coated tablets, chewable tablets, lozenges, etc.), capsules, pills, powders, granules, liquids, suspensions, emulsions, syrups, pastes, and injections (including cases where they are prepared as liquids by mixing them with distilled water or intravenous solutions such as amino acid solutions or electrolyte solutions at the time of use) to create pharmaceutical formulations.

[0095] The method of administering the drug is not particularly limited; for example, it can be administered orally.

[0096] The dosage of medication can be appropriately determined according to various factors such as the patient's weight, age, sex, and symptoms.

[0097] The method for producing a pharmaceutical or quasi-drug to which the veterinary oral composition of this disclosure is added is not particularly limited and may be carried out according to any known method. For example, a pharmaceutical or quasi-drug for use in the above-mentioned applications can be obtained by mixing the veterinary oral composition of this disclosure with an intermediate or final product in the manufacturing process of a pharmaceutical or quasi-drug.

[0098] The amount of the animal oral composition of this disclosure in a pharmaceutical or quasi-drug may be set appropriately according to the type of pharmaceutical or quasi-drug, etc., so that the amount of active ingredient ingested per day falls within the range described above.

[0099] This disclosure shows that the above-mentioned oral animal composition is effective against the diseases associated with it. [Examples]

[0100] The present disclosure will be described in more detail below with reference to examples, but the technical scope of the present disclosure is not limited to these examples.

[0101] Example 1 (Oral Composition for Animals 1 (Combination 1)) Tamogitake extract (manufacturer: Three B Co., Ltd., concentration: approximately 10%) and Sasa extract (manufacturer: Toyo Chem Co., Ltd., concentration: approximately 50%) were diluted with water to a final concentration of 1% each, and mixed for 30 minutes using a stirrer (manufacturer: Jonan Automatic Machinery Co., Ltd., product name: viscous liquid automatic filling and packaging machine) until uniform to obtain animal oral composition 1 (combination 1) (Tamogitake extract:Sasa extract = 1:1). Hereinafter, Tamogitake extract may be abbreviated as Tamogitake, and Sasa extract as Sasa. In addition, an animal oral composition containing Tamogitake and Sasa extract may be called a combination, Tamogitake extract alone may be called Tamogitake single agent, and Sasa extract alone may be called Sasa single agent.

[0102] Example 2 (Oral Composition for Animals 2 (Combination 2)) Oral composition 2 for animals (combination 2) was obtained in the same manner as in Example 1, except that the final concentration of bamboo grass was diluted with water to half the amount (0.5%) (Tamogitake extract:basa extract = 1:0.5).

[0103] Comparative Example 1 (Control Group) The control group received no treatment.

[0104] Comparative Example 2 Bamboo extract (manufacturer: Toyo Chem Co., Ltd., concentration: approximately 50%) was diluted with water to a final concentration of 1%, and mixed using a stirrer (manufacturer: Jonan Automatic Machinery Co., Ltd., product name: viscous liquid automatic filling and packaging machine) for 30 minutes until uniform to obtain bamboo extract.

[0105] Test Example 1: Confirmation of effectiveness against oral diseases At the animal testing facility (Food and Environmental Hygiene Research Institute Co., Ltd.), a total of nine Japanese mixed-breed cats (manufactured by Oriental Yeast Co., Ltd.) were used in the tests, and the anti-inflammatory effects on feline gingivitis were confirmed for Example 1 (Oral Composition 1 for Animals (Combination 1)), Example 2 (Oral Composition 2 for Animals (Combination 2)), and Comparative Example 1 (Control Group). The animals were divided into three groups: six animals administered with the animal oral composition 1 of this disclosure (Example 1: Combination 1), six animals administered with the animal oral composition 2 of this disclosure (a combination adjusted so that the amount of bamboo grass component in the animal oral composition 1 is halved) (Example 2: Combination 2), and three animals as a control group that received no treatment (Comparative Example 1: Control Group). Furthermore, in order to ensure that each dose group received the combined formulations in Example 1 (Combination 1) and Example 2 (Combination 2), forced oral administration was performed by inserting the formulation into the corner of the mouth. The administration method and dosage were 8 packets (40 ml total) per animal, administered every other day.

[0106] For the observation of gingival inflammation, the left maxillary molar (C) and left mandibular second premolar (P2) were scored before the start of the study (Pre) and after the 8th dose, according to a modified GI score (Table 1 below) based on the Gingival Index (GI) proposed by Loe & Silness. Scoring involved calculating the sum of the gingivitis index (GI) values ​​of two representative teeth observed in each individual, and recording the change in this value from 1 (the value before the start of the study).

[0107] Figure 1 shows a photograph (left) of a cat with severe gingivitis before administration of the animal oral composition 1 (combination 1) of Example 1, and a photograph (right) of the cat after 8 administrations. Furthermore, Table 2 and Figure 2 show the changes in the gingivitis index (GI) for the veterinary oral composition 1 (combination 1) of this disclosure, the veterinary oral composition 2 (combination 2) of Example 2, and Comparative Example 1 (control group).

[0108] JPEG2026084248000002.jpg54170

[0109] JPEG2026084248000003.jpg42170

[0110] result As a result, as shown in Table 2 and Figure 2, it was confirmed that oral animal compositions 1 and 2 of this disclosure (Examples 1 and 2), administered eight times every other day, reduced gingival inflammation compared to the control group (Comparative Example 1). In particular, combination 1 of Example 1 (1% Tamogitake + 1% Sasa) significantly reduced gingival inflammation compared to the control group (Comparative Example 1) (p<0.05). Furthermore, combination 1 of Example 1 (1% Tamogitake + 1% Sasa) showed a more pronounced effect in reducing gingival inflammation compared to combination 2 of Example 2 (1% Tamogitake + 0.5% Sasa).

[0111] Test Example 2: Confirmation of Efficacy Regarding Immunomodulation Immunomodulation tests were conducted using Example 1 (combination agent 1) and Comparative Example 2 (sasa monotherapy agent 1%). Specifically, blood samples were collected from cats with severe gingivitis before and after eight administrations of Example 1 (combination drug 1), and the inflammatory cytokine feline interleukin-1β (manufactured by Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc., Kingfisher) was analyzed. Furthermore, blood samples were collected from seven Japanese mixed-breed cats (manufactured by Oriental Yeast Co., Ltd.) different from those in Test Example 1, before administration of Comparative Example 2 (1% bamboo monotherapy agent) and after eight administrations, and feline interleukin-1β was analyzed in the same manner as described above.

[0112] JPEG2026084248000004.jpg97170

[0113] result As a result, it was confirmed that in two cats with severe gingivitis that had high IL-1β levels before administration, the IL-1β levels in both individuals were reduced after administration of the animal oral composition 1 (Example 1 (combination 1)) of this disclosure. In contrast, administration of Sasa alone did not result in the detection of feline interleukin-1β levels. Therefore, it was found that the oral animal composition 1 of this disclosure (Example 1 (combination 1)) has a synergistic effect compared to the single agent.

[0114] Example 3 (Dog food food composition) The animal oral composition 1 (combination 1) of Example 1 described above was mixed in 5g with approximately 50g of dog food that each of the individuals 1 to 7 shown in Table 4 was routinely given to obtain dog food compositions 1 to 7, each containing the animal oral composition of the present disclosure.

[0115] Test Example 3: Bad breath suppression effect Seven dogs (0.5 to 12 years old) kept in ordinary households were given the above dog food food products 1 to 7 orally a total of 3 to 8 times, generally at intervals of every other day (Table 4).

[0116] A questionnaire survey regarding bad breath was conducted among dog owners whose dogs were administered each of the pet food compositions 1 to 7 of this disclosure. The question was, "Have you noticed any changes in bad breath?" and participants were asked to answer one of the following options. The results were then compiled. • Change occurred (a reduction in the change occurred). • No change (no changes were observed) • Deterioration The results are shown in Table 4 and Figure 3.

[0117] JPEG2026084248000005.jpg77170

[0118] result As a result, 6 out of 7 owners of the tested dogs reported a "change," meaning a reduction in the condition. No owners reported a "worsening" condition. These results confirm that the oral composition for animals disclosed herein has an effect on improving the oral environment in dogs. It is suggested that bad breath can be suppressed by reducing inflammation and the associated decrease in volatile sulfur compounds due to the reduction of periodontal pathogens. In addition, it was found that the oral care effect can be exerted even by oral administration through feeding rather than forced oral administration from the corner of the mouth.

[0119] Example 4 An oral composition for animals according to the present disclosure was prepared by the same method as in Example 1 described above. After preparation, it was stored in a cool, dark place until use.

[0120] Comparative Example 2 A single-ingredient solution of bamboo grass (final concentration 1%) was prepared. It was then stored in a cool, dark place until use.

[0121] Test Example 4: Synergistic Effects Twelve Japanese mixed-breed cats (manufactured by Oriental Yeast Co., Ltd.) were used in the animal testing facility (Food and Environmental Hygiene Research Institute Co., Ltd.). The animals administered with the oral animal composition 2 of this disclosure were divided into two groups: six animals (the group administered with Example 4 (combination formulation 1)) and six animals (the group administered with the bamboo grass monotherapy formulation). Each dose was administered orally via forced ingestion through the corner of the mouth, with a target of four packets per week, to ensure that each individual in the treatment group received the drug. The total number of doses for each drug was eight.

[0122] For the observation of gingivitis, the left maxillary molar (C) and left mandibular second premolar (P) were scored according to the same gingivitis index as in the example, before the start of the study (Pre) and the day after the 8th dose. Scoring involved calculating the sum of the gingivitis index (GI) values ​​of two representative teeth observed in each individual, and recording the change in this value from 1 (the value before the start of the study).

[0123] The changes in the gingivitis index (GI) for Example 4 (combination agent 1) and Comparative Example 2 (sasa monotherapy agent) are shown in Table 5 and Figure 4 below.

[0124] JPEG2026084248000006.jpg37170

[0125] result As a result, as shown in Table 5 and Figure 4, the oral animal composition containing 1% Tamogitake mushroom and 1% Sasa bamboo (Example 4) showed a significantly greater reduction in gingivitis compared to Sasa bamboo alone (Comparative Example 2). Therefore, it was confirmed that the oral animal composition of Example 4, due to the combination of Tamogitake mushroom and Sasa bamboo, has synergistic effects such as downregulation of inflammatory immune responses.

[0126] Example 5 The oral animal composition 5 of this disclosure was prepared in the same manner as in Example 1 described above. After preparation, it was stored in a cool, dark place until use.

[0127] Test Example 5: Confirmation of effectiveness against fecal odor For seven dogs (0.5 to 12 years old) and five cats (2 to 12 years old) kept in ordinary households, 5 g of the animal oral composition 5 (combination) of Example 5 was mixed with the dog food or cat food (equivalent to a typical single serving) that they were given on a daily basis to obtain pet food compositions 8 to 19 containing the animal oral composition of this disclosure. Pet food compositions 8-19 were administered orally to the corresponding dogs (individuals 16-22) or cats (individuals 23-27) a total of 3-8 times, generally at intervals of every other day (Table 6).

[0128] A questionnaire survey regarding fecal odor was conducted among owners of dogs and cats that were administered pet food compositions 8-19 of this disclosure. The question was, "Was there a change in the odor of the stool?" and respondents were asked to answer one of the following options. The results were then compiled. • Change occurred (a reduction in the change occurred). • No change (no changes were observed) • Deterioration The results are shown in Table 6, Figure 5, and Figure 6.

[0129] JPEG2026084248000007.jpg96170

[0130] result As a result, as shown in Table 6 and Figure 5, the owners of 6 out of 7 dogs tested reported a "change," meaning a reduction in the condition. No owners reported a "worsening" condition. Furthermore, as shown in Table 6 and Figure 6, the owners of 4 out of 5 cats tested reported a "change," meaning a reduction in the condition. No responses indicated a "worsening" condition. These test results confirmed that administration of the oral animal composition of Example 5 not only reduced gingivitis in cats as described in Test Examples 1 and 2, but also suppressed fecal odor in dogs and cats. This suggests that oral administration of Tamogitake mushrooms and bamboo grass improved the intestinal environment. These findings indicate that the oral animal composition disclosed herein can contribute not only to improving the oral environment but also to improving the intestinal environment, and may lead to improved immunity. Furthermore, the oral animal composition disclosed herein was found to improve the overall coat shine of the animal. In particular, dog number 21 clearly developed a shinier coat.

Claims

1. An oral composition for animals containing Pleurotus erythrosora and plants of the genus Sasa.

2. The oral composition for animals according to claim 1, wherein the aforementioned Tamogitake is an extract of Tamogitake.

3. The oral composition for animals according to claim 1, wherein the Sasa genus plant includes Sasa veitchii and / or Sasa kurilensis.

4. The oral composition for animals according to claim 1, wherein the Sasa genus plant is an extract of a Sasa genus plant.

5. An oral composition for animals according to claim 1, which is for oral use, selected from the group consisting of periodontitis, gingivitis, periodontal disease, pyorrhea, stomatitis, and bad breath.

6. An oral composition for animals according to claim 1, for immunomodulatory purposes.

7. The oral animal composition according to claim 6, wherein the immunomodulation is caused by suppression of the production of inflammatory cytokines.

8. The oral composition for animals according to claim 7, wherein the inflammatory cytokine is interleukin-1β (IL-1β).

9. An oral composition for animals according to claim 1, for improving the intestinal environment.

10. An oral composition for animals according to claim 9, for suppressing the odor of excrement.

11. An oral composition for animals according to claim 1, which is for use in food and beverages, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, or quasi-drugs.

12. Food and beverages containing the oral composition for animals described in claim 1.

13. A feed containing the oral composition for animals described in claim 1.

14. Pet food containing the animal oral composition described in claim 1.

15. A pharmaceutical or quasi-drug containing the oral composition for animals described in claim 1.

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