WO2009009879A1

WO2009009879A1 - Beverage composition for non-human animals

Info

Publication number: WO2009009879A1
Application number: PCT/CA2008/001285
Authority: WO
Inventors: Andrew Michael Ramsay; Derrick Eugene Walker
Original assignee: Aquience Inc.
Priority date: 2007-07-13
Filing date: 2008-07-11
Publication date: 2009-01-22

Abstract

Water is vital to the health of all living organisms. Most animals in captive environments do not consume a sufficient amount water and this commonly results in renal and GI complications. The present invention is related to a beverage composition for promoting hydration of a non-human animal. The beverage composition comprises purified water, such as reverse osmosis water, and an attractant having at least a flavour and an odour. The beverage composition has a unique mimetic property that is appealing to the animal. The beverage composition preferably further comprises one or more biologically active ingredients for promoting GI or renal health, such as an enzyme or a plant extract.

Description

BEVERAGE COMPOSITION FOR NON-HUMAN ANIMALS

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates generally to the beverage industry. More particularly, the present invention relates to a beverage composition for non-human animals.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Proper hydration is critical to the health and well being of all animals, including companion animals and livestock. Water is an important nutrient and is vital to the functioning of all living cells. The body of the adult dog or cat, for example, contains about 60 percent water, and this proportion is even higher in young animals.

[0003] Both canine and feline species are evolved from carnivore antecedents. Cats remain obligate carnivores, requiring a large percentage of meat in their diets, typically provided by manufactured pet foods. Dogs can tolerate a more omnivorous diet, typically provided by pet owners and manufactured pet foods.

[0004] Manufactured pet foods tend to be highly processed and are not always designed for optimal processing by the digestive system. They generally contain animal byproducts and fillers that are difficult for the animal to digest and are often designed with cost and convenience for the owner as a priority. Certain ingredients, such as bulking agents and fillers, and added which provide minimal to no nutritional benefit to the animal. Cheap sources of protein, carbohydrate and fiber, such as corn, rice, or wheat, are often added that are difficult to digest. Numerous compensations have been made in companion animal diet to approximate various needs previously satisfied in nature. This can be seen in the addition of vitamins, minerals and salts to manufactured pet food formulations.

[0005] One component of this modern processed diet that has been lost to the animals is the metabolic water derived from consuming freshly killed animals. The dry and moist pet food formulations on which most pets subsist contain very little water by comparison. Pet owners must therefore provide their animals, particularly indoor pets, with additional water for hydration. This is especially important for animals on dry food diets since this may be their only source of water. Many animals however, including dogs and cats, do not drink sufficient water in captive environments. The treatment additives present in potable water, such as chlorine and fluoride, as well as entrained minerals, salts, and pollutants, depending on location, can make potable water unpalatable to companion animals, further discouraging water intake. In some cases, salts and other ingredients have been added to processed foods to encourage drinking but this is not healthy and not overly effective.

[0006] The consequences of a processed diet can be seen in the renal and digestive systems of these animals. With less than an optimum intake of water from all sources, animals conserve water by urinating less frequently. In cats, the most common complaints associated with this metabolic response are struvite and oxylate crystals, as well as other symptoms of feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD), and kidney stones. Urine output in these animals tends to have lower volume, higher specific gravity, fluctuating pH that aggravates FLUTD, and is significantly more odorous. These are chronic and prevalent conditions in the feline pet population, producing constant admonitions to pet owners from veterinarian practitioners to get the animals drinking more water.

[0007] Dogs develop problems as well and share odorous urine and stool problems with cats. Malodourous stool is often the result, in whole or in part, of protein putrefaction in the digestive tract. The protein sources utilized in animal feeds can be difficult to digest and are not always digestible at the same rate as food motility in the digestive system. Consequently, the more protein in the food that is provided by less easily digestible sources, often labelled as by-products of the meat source, the worse the stool odour. Undigested protein in the Gl tract can cause irritation and inflammation in the Gl tract, and also impacts the renal systems of cats and dogs in the form of increased urea in the urine.

[0008] In older animals, including cats and dogs, dietary protein content is generally reduced to prevent this suite of conditions rather than attempting to improve digestion and protein uptake in the Gl tract. Although attempts have been made to overcome this problem in the formulating of animal foods, such attempts have not proven entirely satisfactory. In fact, the degree to which the pet industry adds odour masking agents to litter formulations is a good indication of how treatment focus often moves away from improving diet and treating the animal condition, toward redesigning its associated consumer products for pet owners. [0009] There has been a growing trend for humans to mimic their priorities, preferences and spending patterns on their companion animals. Some pet owners feed their animals bottled water to avoid the treatment additives found in potable water supplies. While this provides a purer source of water for their pets, bottled water can lack appeal to companion animals and they may not drink it in sufficient quantities for proper hydration. Some owners feed spring water to their pets in the search for purity and quality, often not realizing that the high salt and mineral content found in spring water can have a negative impact on animal health, especially in combination with processed foods already containing additional loadings of vitamins and minerals in the form of soluble salts. Some owners provide their pets with milk to encourage drinking. Milk is not an ideal beverage for mature animals however, since animals cease to produce the full suite of enzymes necessary to digest milk when they are weaned. Humans are the only animals in nature to drink milk as a dietary staple beyond natural weaning.

[0010] Although it is recognized that increasing water intake is an important goal, it can be difficult to encourage an animal to increase fluid intake in order to promote hydration. It can be especially difficult to encourage an old or sick animal to drink more water. Cats are particularly finicky when it comes to water intake.

[0011] To enhance the palatability of human potable water and purified water, some prior art pet beverage formulations comprise flavourings to encourage drinking. Since cats and dogs have a very poor sense of taste relative to humans however, attempts to encourage drinking using flavourings alone have not been overly successful. Artificial flavourings, in particular, appear to be insufficient to attract cats and dogs to drink water, as well as fruit flavourings which tend to be appealing to humans and not animals.

[0012] In an attempt to appeal to the animal, some beverages have included meat flavours. Some compositions use meat by-products, including liver digest or entrails, or rendered offal, to provide meat flavour to a beverage. The use of liver digest and other meat products to flavour a beverage can result in inconsistencies in batch production and raise microbial and disease concerns.

[0013] Several prior art pet beverage compositions have been proposed, most of which are loaded with vitamins, minerals and salts, in the tradition of "human" fortified beverages, and are therefore intended as dietary supplements rather than to promote hydration or renal or Gl health. With the advent of balanced commercial diets for pets, which contain adequate, and sometimes excessive, amounts of vitamins, minerals and salts, adding more of these components through the use of a beverage composition has no additional benefit and, in many cases, can be harmful to the health of the animal. Excess salts and minerals (i.e. calcium, potassium, sodium, chloride, and magnesium) are known to create renal problems as well as crystal formations in the bladder of dogs and especially cats and, particularly in older animals, can contribute to renal disease. These problems are further exacerbated in already dehydrated animals. Beverages loaded with salts and minerals should be restricted to very physically active animals that need to replenish their mineral stores, and should be avoided in cats that are not very active by nature. Recent studies have shown that some vitamins, especially those considered antioxidant in nature, can actually increase mortality in excess amounts.

[0014] Over-supplementation with vitamins, minerals and salts is a problem in the pet industry and contributes to serious problems generally. Many of these compounds have their own pathologies associated in humans when taken in excess of metabolic requirement. The same stresses generally apply in animals as well. Additionally, the over supplementation of these water-soluble compounds means that the body must process and excrete them through the renal system. Instead of reducing the stress burden on the animal's Gl tract and renal system, beverages heavily laden with minerals and salts surplus to the daily metabolic requirement, as provided in the solid diet, will sustain, and in some cases may increase the operating burden of the animal's digestive and renal systems.

[0015] Some prior art pet beverages contain caffeine or other stimulants in the form of an energy drink for pets. The use of caffeine and its addictive properties not only affects the health of the animal but also creates behavior problems and promotes dehydration due to its well-documented diuretic properties.

[0016] Some prior art pet beverages add additional protein, fat or fiber to the pet diet.

These components are already provided in adequate, and sometimes excessive, amounts in pet foods and should not be over provided. Many commercial pet foods can provide an excess of protein in the diet, especially if owners over feed their animals. Excess protein in the diet can cause a host of problems, including digestive, liver and renal problems, as well as malodorous stool when portions remain partially or wholly undigested. Commercial pet foods contain up to 32% fat. Adding fat to a beverage will promote overweight pets, and can also create an unstable product. Adding fiber to the diet can accelerate gut motility but excess fiber in the diet can promote an intestinal malabsorption condition, exacerbated by the fact that many pet foods are already difficult for the animal to digest. Moreover, carnivores do not digest fiber well.

[0017] Some prior art beverages add sugar, such as fructose, to encourage animals to drink but this is not healthy for regular or prolonged consumption and would be contraindicated in diabetic animals.

[0018] Exemplary prior art pet beverage compositions include those described in US

2007/0059343, US 2004/01 15248, US 6,485,764, US 5,017,389, WO 03/011047, WO 95/28854, FR 2715539, US 2005/0123587, US 2005/0119222, WO 2005/079606, US 6,423,360, US 6,555,149, WO 01/58274, DE 19900476, GB 2225206, CA 2,154,541 , CA 2,154,542, US 7,115,297, US 2005/0202146 and US 2003/0049352.

[0019] U.S. Patent Application Number 2004/0115248 describes a hydration beverage configured for non-human animals, which comprises surface water from a creek, pond, or swamp, or other naturally-obtained water containing vitamins, minerals and other elements, which does not meet FDA and EPA human safety standards. The water is treated to kill microorganisms. The beverage comprises one or more flavourings, such as beef flavouring, to appeal to the taste buds of non-human animals. It is known that flavourings alone are not successful to encourage drinking. The levels of minerals and other materials in these non-traditional sources of water are non-standardized and could vary significantly. High levels could be toxic. Furthermore, the prevalence of minerals and other elements in the water could result in over administration of these components when combined with processed pet foods.

[0020] WO 95/28854 describes a low pH beverage for animals, comprising three major components, an olfactory component for smell, a palatability component for taste, and a health component, which is pure or fortified water. Flavourings, both natural and synthetic, are used. The beverage may contain various sugars, vitamins, amino acids, electrolytes and minerals. Such prior art formulations have a number of unnecessary ingredients duplicating the nutritional components already provided in adequate or excessive amounts in pet food. These extra ingredients make the formulations more expensive to manufacture and also pose the risk of over supplementation. It has been shown that pH values below 6.2 increase the incidence of calcium oxylate crystals in dogs and cats.

[0021] U.S. Patent No. 6,423,360 discloses a beverage for animals comprising meat or offals extract and plant extract having olfactory properties as well as flavour. The extracts are obtained by boiling meat or offals and vegetables in water to obtain a broth that is further processed into a beverage. The process of manufacturing such a product could be expensive and inefficient. Such a product may be suitable as an occasional home remedy. Moreover, other components from the meat and vegetables such as fats, proteins, salts, carbohydrates and microbes could be present in the beverage and would be difficult to control or standardize.

[0022] U.S. Patent No. 6,555,149 discloses a flavored water for pets. The mineral water comprises a purified water, prepared by distillation or reverse osmosis, having less than 200 ppm dissolved minerals, which is essentially free of chlorine and glycerine. The water contains a small amount of an artificial flavor of a food which is enjoyed by the pet and the pets reportedly drink the water freely. As previously stated however, artificial flavors are generally not successful in encouraging animals and pets to increase water intake. Although the disclosed mineral water provides a safer and purer source of water for pets compared to spring water or potable water, there is no indication that fluid intake is increased compared to animals offered regular water.

[0023] It is desirable to provide improved products and methods for promoting hydration or increasing fluid intake in domesticated animals, including companion and livestock animals.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0024] It is an object of the present invention to obviate or mitigate at least one disadvantage associated with previous compositions and methods for promoting hydration of non-human animals, including companion animals and livestock.

[0025] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a beverage composition for promoting hydration of non-human animals. The beverage composition comprises purified water, such as reverse osmosis water, and an attractant having at least a flavour and an odour. The beverage composition has a unique mimetic property that is appealing to the animal.

[0026] The beverage composition preferably further comprises one or more biologically active ingredients for promoting Gl or renal health, such as an enzyme or a plant extract.

[0027] In a further embodiment, there is provided a beverage composition for increasing fluid intake in a non-human animal comprising: a) reverse osmosis water; b) a natural attractant having a flavour and an odour reminiscent of meat; and c) one or more biologically active ingredients selected from enzymes and plant extracts for promoting renal or gastrointestinal health; the beverage composition having a pH between about 6.2 and 6.8, a total dissolved solids content of less than 200 ppm, and having a mimetic property provided by b) or c) or a combination thereof.

[0028] In another aspect, there is provided a method of promoting hydration or renal health or gastrointestinal health in a non-human animal, comprising providing a beverage composition of the invention; and providing the beverage composition to the non-human animal for consumption.

[0029] In further aspect, the present invention provides a commercial package comprising a beverage composition of the invention, together with labeling to indicate that the beverage is for consumption by a non-human animal.

[0030] Other aspects and features of the present invention will become apparent to those ordinarily skilled in the art upon review of the following description of specific embodiments of the invention in conjunction with the accompanying figures. The description and figures are not intended to limit the invention to the exemplary embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0031] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the attached Figures, wherein:

Fig. 1 depicts average daily fluid intake by cats in different weight ranges fed water or a Pet Quench™ beverage composition in accordance with an embodiment of the invention; Fig. 2 depicts average daily urination frequency by cats in different weight ranges fed water or a Pet Quench™ beverage composition in accordance with an embodiment of the invention of the invention; and

Fig. 3 depicts urine specific gravity for cats in different weight ranges fed water or a Pet Quench™ beverage composition in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] Generally, the present invention provides a beverage or food composition.

More particularly, the present invention provides a beverage or food composition for promoting hydration in non-human animals, including companion animals and livestock. While a skilled person will appreciate that the principles of the present invention, as taught herein, may be applied to a beverage composition or a food composition, a beverage composition is specifically exemplified herein.

[0033] The beverage composition comprises a base fluid for hydration and an attractant to encourage consumption by non-human animals. The attractant has at least a flavour and an odour to appeal to both senses. In one embodiment, the attractant also has a mimetic property. The composition may further comprise at least one ingredient for promoting renal or gastrointestinal health in the non-human animal.

[0034] A non-human animal, as used herein, refers to any suitable non-human animal, in particular, domesticated animals, such as companion animals and livestock.

[0035] An attractant, as used herein, describes a substance that can be added to a composition to provide flavour and odour to the composition. The attractant may also possess a mimetic property, described below. The attractant may be in any suitable form, such as a liquid, an oil, a powder, an extract, or a combination of the above, and may comprise one compound or a mixture of compounds.

[0036] A mimetic property, as used herein, describes a property that produces a sensory response in the animal mimicking the consumption of a natural stimulus that is not present in the beverage composition. The mimetic property renders the composition more appealing to the animal. Mimetic properties are well known in the food industry, such as the dairy industry and the low-fat food industry. The mimetic property may provide a desirable "mouthfeel", flavour masking or expression, texture and/or consistency to appeal to the animal or convince the animal of the presence of food ingredients that are not present, such as meat or fat. The mimetic property may involve a reaction with receptors on the tongue or may provide a perceived texture or consistency. The mimetic property may be provided by one ingredient in the beverage, such as the attractant, or by a combination of ingredients in the beverage. The ingredients may interact or synergize to enhance the mimetic property of the beverage.

[0037] A bioactive ingredient, as used herein, refers to an ingredient that is in intended to promote a physical, chemical or behavioural response in the animal.

[0038] The beverage composition is intended for consumption by non-human animals. In one embodiment, the beverage composition is formulated for consumption by cats and dogs.

[0039] The beverage composition may be used to promote hydration, which may, for example, include stimulating water consumption, increasing water intake, preventing or treating dehydration, among others. The beverage composition may be provided to the animal ad libitum, regularly, intermittently or sporadically.

[0040] In some embodiments, the beverage is prescribed as a treatment or adjunct therapy to treat dehydration or renal or Gl problems and may be prescribed in conjunction with other medications. In some embodiments, the beverage composition is used to promote renal or gastrointestinal health, which may, for example, include reducing renal stress, improving urinary function, improving digestive function, improving Gl motility, or reducing or preventing Gl inflammation. In some embodiments, the beverage composition may be used to aid in the digestion of protein in the diet to prevent or reduce the production of gasses and gut inflammation or help reduce stool odour. In some embodiments, the beverage may be provided during constipation to increase hydration and aid in stimulating Gl motility. In some embodiments, the beverage composition may be also given to animals with upset stomach. In some embodiments, the beverage composition is used to deliver one or more bioactive ingredients to the animal. In some embodiments, the beverage composition may also be used to increase consumption of a particular food or fluid, wherein, for example, the beverage composition is poured onto or mixed with the food or fluid to be consumed. [0041] The present inventors have created novel hydrating and therapeutic beverage compositions through inventive combinations of ingredients, including specific attractants and other bioactive ingredients. The beverage compositions are specifically designed to target prevalent problems in the pet population, such as renal and urinary problems and gastrointestinal and digestive problems which are improved with increased hydration. The novel combination of ingredients in the compositions has been found to increase the cumulative efficacy of their properties compared to individual usage, and has delivered significant health benefits to animals, as verified by laboratory analysis and veterinary examination. Benefits have also been verified through testimony by pet owners, who report increased water intake, reduced odour of urine and feces, and better stool formation in cats and dogs.

[0042] Veterinarians have been urging pet owners to have their dogs, and especially cats, drink more, now that they eat primarily dry food diets. Increased fluid intake is also a cornerstone of therapy in the veterinary industry. Increased fluid intake is important, for example, in cats presenting with feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD) and in dogs with urolithiasis (stones), as well as many other urinary complaints. The beverage composition of the present invention may be used as an adjunct in the treatment of these animal patients depending on the presenting symptoms, and may also be used to treat dehydration of nearly any cause. Administration of the beverage composition as an adjunct to intravenous (i.v.) fluids could reduce the amount of i.v. fluids required or the duration of i.v. therapy, which is unpleasant for the animal and expensive for the owner. The beverage composition may also be used as a preventive measure, offered daily to increase fluid daily fluid intake and decrease the risk of developing dehydration, urinary or renal disorders, digestive complications, or the like. The beverage can also improve stool formation and reduce stool and urine odour. The beverage can also be used to promote hydration during heat waves, or during travel or performance, when animals tend to be nervous or otherwise refuse water.

[0043] The beverage composition of the present invention is veterinary-approved and has been successfully shown to increase daily water intake in companion animals, including cats and dogs. Intake was increased in animals drinking a beverage composition of the invention compared to animals offered potable tap water. The methodology involved measuring fluid intake and urine output, and correcting for total evaporation during the trial period, as described in Example 3. Urinalysis and blood panels were also performed on test animals.

[0044] Fig. 1 shows the average daily fluid intake by cats in different weight ranges fed water for one week (black bars) compared to the same cats fed a beverage composition of the invention, labeled as PetQuench™, for one week (white bars), with polydipsia threshold indicated for each cat (grey bars). Cats offered the beverage of the invention instead of water increased their daily intake by approximately 80% for improved hydration. The increased water intake has been shown to provide real, quantifiable benefit to the animals, while remaining well below the polydipsia threshold. The polydipsia threshold may be defined as that level of consumption termed excessive due to its negative impact on organ function, and normally seen as part of disease pathology like diabetes.

[0045] Fig. 2 shows the average daily urination frequency by cats in different weight ranges fed water for one week (black bars) compared to the same cats fed a beverage composition of the invention, labeled as PetQuench™, for one week (white bars). Cats offered the pet beverage of the invention instead of water doubled their frequency of urination, emptying their bladder on a more regular basis, thereby potentially reducing the risk of developing urine supersaturated with minerals. The beverage composition of the invention may therefore be used to help maintain animal urinary tract health.

[0046] Fig. 3 shows the urine specific gravity for cats in different weight ranges fed water for one week (black bars) compared to the same cats fed a beverage composition of the invention, labeled as PetQuench™, for one week (white bars). Cats offered the pet beverage of the invention showed decreases in urine specific gravity by approximately 30% within their normal range, potentially reducing the risk of developing common urinary tract diseases.

[0047] All animals tested responded well to the attractant and drank the beverage enthusiastically.

[0048] Urine smell was reduced in pets offered the beverage composition instead of water. This is believed to be due to the increased frequency of urination and production of less concentrated urine, along with the assistance of the bioactive ingredients in the composition. [0049] The beverage composition is non-toxic and safe for animal consumption.

Bloodwork and urinalysis of cats offered the beverage composition of the invention or water were compared and no metabolic changes were seen in either group. No vomiting or diarrhoea has been reported in dogs or cats offered the beverage composition.

[0050] Dogs offered the beverage composition also increased water intake compared to animals offered regular water, with the majority of dogs in the test group drinking an entire 500 ml bottle during the test period. Owners report better stool formation and less odorous stool. Dog owners have also reported that sick and dehydrated dogs will consume the beverage of the invention over regular water and that it can settle an upset stomach.

[0051] The beverage composition may be utilized as a supplement to or a replacement for regular drinking water for the animal. Preferably, for consistency, the beverage composition is utilized as a replacement for regular drinking water. The beverage composition may be provided to the pet ad libitum, thereby allowing the animal to drink until satisfied. The results shown in Figure 1 indicate that, while water intake was increased with the beverage composition of the invention, water consumption did not increase above the polydipsia threshold. Alternatively, the beverage composition could be provided on a planned schedule to regulate water intake and urination habits. Alternatively, the beverage could be provided in times of dehydration, such as after exercise or on hot days, to increase water intake. Or the composition could be provided when the animal is sick. A pet owner or veterinarian can select an appropriate usage of the composition.

[0052] The novel combinations of attractants and preferred bioactive compounds, when combined together with water, stimulate water consumption levels significantly higher than normal water intake under domesticated conditions. This stimulation of consumption is believed to be due to the flavour and odour of the attractant, as well as the mimetic properties of the beverage, which together attract the animal and encourage drinking. The mimetic property, discussed further below, may be provided by the attractant or by the optional bioactive ingredients in the composition, or both.

[0053] The attractant and optional bioactive ingredients may be added to any base fluid for animal consumption, such as a domestic water supply or various bottled waters or mineral waters, to achieve consumption increases. The quality of potable water supplies can vary considerably however and local water quality may influence consumption. A purified water is therefore preferred for both quality and consistency. Removing the residual minerals and treatment additives found in potable water is beneficial to the Gl and renal system and also eliminates unpleasant flavour and scent components found in potable water supplies, which discourage drinking.

[0054] A purified water may include, for example, filtered water, distilled water, or reverse osmosis water, among others. Depending on the source, a purified water may have less than about 600 ppm, less than about 300 ppm, less than about 200 ppm, less than about 100 ppm, less than about 50 ppm, less than about 25 ppm, less than about 10 ppm, less than about 5 ppm, less than about 2 ppm, or less than about 0.5 ppm, of total dissolved solids.

[0055] In one embodiment, the base fluid is reverse osmosis water, chosen specifically because it is substantially free of extraneous elements. Treatment chemicals typically added to the human potable water supply are stripped out and minerals capable of being removed are reduced to trace levels to give a pure, consistent source of water. The purity of reverse osmosis water can be brought to at or below about 10 ppm, 5 ppm, 2 ppm, and even as low as 0.5 ppm total dissolved solids.

[0056] Prior attempts have been made to encourage drinking by adding flavour additives to beverage compositions. This works well for humans since humans are taste driven, however, such attempts have generally proven unsuccessful for animals over time, particularly animals that have a poor sense of taste. Artificial flavour in particular appears to be insufficient to attract cats and dogs. It has been reported that cat tongues have fewer than 500 taste buds and dogs have about 1700. Both species have less than the approximately 9,000 taste buds humans possess, too few to rely on the type of flavouring strategies used in human foods. It is possible that certain animals gain more information about food through smell than taste.

[0057] The beverage composition thus comprises an attractant to encourage drinking by a non-human animal. The attractant differs from a flavouring because it works on multiple levels simultaneously. The attractants are designed to work with the animal's behaviour and taste patterns and preferences, and can be tailored for a particular species. The attractant possesses an odour, to engage the animal's sensitive sense of smell so as to attract the animal to the location of the water and encourage tasting, and a flavour, to work as a reinforcement to continue drinking at the point of tasting.

[0058] In one embodiment, the attractant further comprises a mimetic property which renders the beverage composition more appealing and encourages the animal to drink and contributes to the overall mimetic property of the beverage. The attractants are selected to mimic the natural diet of the animal rather that the taste preferences of the human pet owner. Mimetic attractants can elicit a response to convince the animal that they are consuming ingredients, such as food ingredients, that are not actually present. The mimetic property may, for example, convince the animal that meat or flesh is being consumed. The combined properties of flavour, odour and mimetic property may be provided by a single component or a mixture of components in the attractant. The mimetic property may involve a reaction with tongue receptors or may involve a texture or consistency or a combination thereof. Mimetic properties are well known in the food industry and will be understood by those skilled in the art including chemists. When humans consume low fat products, for example, a great deal of effort has gone into recreating the texture or "mouthfeel" of the low fat product to mimic the presence of fat to make it more appealing. The mimetic property increases the appeal of the beverage composition.

[0059] The optimal triple sensory application of an attractant having a desirable flavour and odor, in a beverage having reinforcing mimetic properties, combined with the absence of unnatural flavours from minerals and chlorine, convinces the animal to believe its senses and encourages drinking.

[0060] In one embodiment, the attractant comprises a mimetic property which induces a sensation mimicking the presence of proteins or fats in the composition. It has been shown that cats have developed taste sensitivity to proteins and certain amino acids (Boudreau, J. C and T.D. White. Flavour chemistry of carnivore taste systems; In: Bullard.R.W. (editor). Flavor chemistry of animal foods. American Chemical Society Symposium, Series no. 67, Washington, DC; 1978. p. 102-128.).

[0061] Any suitable attractant having a flavour and an odour tailored to attract a non- human animal may be utilized. The attractant may be a natural attractant or a synthetic attractant comprising both flavour and odour. The attractant is preferably a natural attractant meaning that it contains or is made from components found in nature. A natural attractant, for example, may comprise an extract or may be a composition made from natural components such as reacted amino acids and sugars. A skilled chemist can create such compositions relying on the principles of organic chemistry. The attractant may be selected or designed to appeal to a particular species. Exemplary attractants may comprise a flavour and odor reminiscent of a meat, such as beef, chicken, pork, lamb, turkey, fish, seafood, or another natural flavour and odour combination. It is preferable that the odour and flavour match the animal's natural sensory patterns rather than confusing the animal with scents and flavours not common to its natural diet. The attractant may provide a feel or a texture to the beverage as well.

[0062] Exemplary attractants are available from commercial ingredient suppliers, flavour houses or manufacturers of reaction products known to those skilled in the art. Exemplary attractants include proprietary attractants to Aquience Inc., PEI, Canada. Two exemplary proprietary attractants are identified as Aquience attractant #2102 and Aquience attractant #2103. These are liquid attractants made by proprietary organic chemistry methods reacting amino acids and sugars to produce natural attractants having a flavour and odor reminiscent of a meat. Attractant #2102 is an aqueous-based attractant and attractant #2103 is a lipid-based attractant. These particular attractants provide flavour and odor to the beverage and also contribute to the mimetic property of the beverage wherein a response is elicited in the animal to convince the animal that they are consuming ingredients, such as food ingredients, that are not actually present. When the beverage is presented to some dogs, they actually try to "chew" the beverage on first exposure evidencing the mimetic properties the beverage. The attractants may also provide a perceived texture to the beverage. Custom attractants may be specially formulated for use in the beverage composition.

[0063] The attractant may be present in the composition in any suitable amount wherein consumption of the beverage is stimulated. In one embodiment, the attractant Exemplary amounts are from about 0.01% to about 10%, preferably about 0.01% to about 5.0%, preferable from about 0.01 % to about 1.0%, more preferably about 0.05% to about 0.25%, of the final composition The attractant may be provided in any suitable form, such as a liquid, powder or paste, which may be water soluble or oil soluble. Where an oil-soluble attractant is used, a relaxed suspension may be formed. Alternatively, an emulsifier could be added to aid dispersion using methods known to those skilled in the art. [0064] The attractants combined with purified water and other bioactive ingredients, provide a synergistic effect previously unseen in companion animal products. The product is designed to provide a cascade of benefits through the unique combinations of ingredients. These same benefits are not seen through the administration the bioactive ingredients individually since the increased intake of water enhances the benefits of the composition. The same benefits are not seen through administering the bioactive ingredients in potable water or water without the attractant, since the animals will not consume sufficient quantities of the water, and increasing the amount of the ingredients in regular water to account for the decreased water intake would render the water less palatable and more difficult to manufacture due to solubility issues and the like.

[0065] The unique attractant, having flavour and odor, increases consumption of the beverage composition compared to flavoured products on the market, without the addition of fructose or other sweetening agents. The preferred attractants having additional mimetic properties further increase consumption by appealing to the animals senses. Certain bioactive ingredients in the composition, such as plant extracts, further enhance the mimetic properties of the composition. The composition has an overall taste, smell and texture that is appealing to animals.

[0066] The composition comprising the attractant can be used to effectively deliver bioactive ingredients to the animal. The animal then gets the combined benefit of increased water intake and bioactive effects from the other ingredients.

[0067] In accordance with a preferred embodiment, one or more bioactive ingredients for promoting renal or Gl health are added to the beverage composition. Bioactive ingredients for promoting renal or Gl health include, but are not limited to, enzymes and plant extracts.

[0068] Enzymes aid in digestion, particularly of difficult to digest components of pet foods. A wide range of enzymes are available that can be delivered to an animal using a beverage composition comprising an attractant to encourage drinking. The proteolytic enzymes aid in the breakdown of proteins, can help reduce Gl inflammation by enhancing the natural anti-inflammatory properties in the gut, and can help reduce putrefaction in the gut from indigestible protein sources, such as bone, hoof, hair and plant gluten. Certain proteolytic enzymes also produce compounds when digested that are known to aid in healing joint injuries. Other enzymes or mixtures of enzymes may also be added to the beverage composition to aid in the digestion of proteins, carbohydrates or fats to aid promotion of Gl and/or renal health.

[0069] An enzyme may be added to the composition at any suitable concentration and more than one enzyme may be added. Two exemplary proteolytic enzymes, papain and bromelain, contribute to protein break down and uptake in the gut. Less undigested protein means less putrefaction, odour and inflammation. Better uptake means better digestion. Exemplary concentrations may range from about from about 0.001% to about 10%, from about 0.01% to about 5.0%, preferably from about 0.01% to about 3.0%, from about 0.01% to about 1 %, or from about 0.01 % to about 0.1% w/v of the final composition. In one embodiment, papain is present in the composition at about 0.3 g/l, or bout 0.03% w/v. In one embodiment, bromelain is present at a concentration of about 0.5 g/l, or about 0.05% w/v. In another embodiment, both papain and bromelain are present at the aforementioned concentrations.

[0070] Plant extracts, including fruit and vegetable extracts, may be added to the beverage composition to improve renal or Gl functions.

[0071] Plant extracts may also be added to the composition as a source of enzymes.

Papaya extract may be added as a source of papain. Pineapple extract may be added as a source of bromelain.

[0072] Aloe extract contributes to reduced inflammation in the gut, better stool formation and reduced odour. The extracts support healthy Gl flora as opposed to that associated with indigestible protein, and this is referred to as competitive exclusion. Aloe extract may be added to the composition at any suitable concentration, for example, from about 0.001% to about 10%, preferably about 0.001 % to about 1%, or about 0.01% to about 0.1%. In one embodiment, aloe extract is present in the composition at a concentration of 0.2 g/l or 0.02% w/v.

[0073] Fructo-oligosaccharides can also be added for competitive exclusion in the gut.

[0074] Certain enzymes and plant extracts provide large molecules that, when added to the water, can contribute to the mimetic effect of the beverage. For instance, the long- chain molecules of the aloe extract become hydrated and provide a noticeable texture to the beverage. It is believed that such hydratable molecules interact with each other in the composition, and may interact with the attractant as well, to provide a synergistic mimetic effect. Humans that have tested the beverage confirm the mimetic effect of the beverage. It is believed that the unique mimetic properties of the beverage make it particularly attractive to animals compared to beverages having the properties of potable water. The animals are attracted by the smell and taste of the beverage and also perceive that they are consuming something more interesting or substantial than water. The attractiveness of the beverage composition to the animals contributes to the effectiveness of the beverage composition over prior art compositions which do not demonstrate increased water intake.

[0075] Other additional optional bioactive ingredients may be added to the beverage, including but not limited to medicines, vitamins, metabolism and immune system boosters, fatty acids, and antioxidants. Some exemplary bioactive compounds are listed in Table 1.

[0076] Optional bioactive ingredients may be carefully selected to ensure no negative effects on the animal, such as diarrhoea, and use levels may be selected which minimize any possibility of over administration of a particular ingredient when combined with diet. Optional additives can also be selected to ensure no negative interactions with the other ingredients in the composition would occur, which could, for instance, affect the stability of the composition.

[0077] The beverage composition is as important for what it does not contain as for what it does contain. When the beverage is manufactured such that is can be used regularly as a replacement for regular drinking water, the beverage is preferably substantially free of added supplements, such as vitamins, minerals or salts that are already present in sufficient quantity in pet foods. The beverage is preferably substantially free of caffeine or other stimulants or dehydrating or diuretic ingredients, and is also preferably substantially free of refined sugars. If the beverage is used as a treatment for renal or urinary complications, it preferably does not contain any additives that would have a negative effect on the kidneys or urinary system. A skilled person will readily be able to determine which additives are suitable and which should be avoided for a particular application.

[0078] Antioxidants or vitamins may be added for general beneficial effects well documented in the literature. Their use should preferably be limited to minimize any negative effects on the animal or the composition and to avoid over supplementation. Antioxidants may be added to the composition in any suitable amount. For example, an antioxidant may be present at a concentration of about 0.01 g/l to about 5 g/l in the composition. In one embodiment, β-carotene is present in the composition at a concentration of 0.4 g/l. The beverage composition may optionally comprise vitamins in water-soluble or water dispersible forms. The antioxidant vitamins C, E, A, and beta-carotene, vitamin B 12, vitamin D, folic acid, thiamin, and riboflavin, among others, may provide added nutrient to the beverage composition. A skilled person can easily select an appropriate amount of antioxidants or vitamins to be added. In preferred embodiments, antioxidants or vitamins that are already present in sufficient quantities in pet food formulations are avoided

[0079] In a preferred embodiment, any nutritional mineral or vitamin which is present in sufficient amount in most processed animal food formulations, either naturally or as a supplement, is eliminated or reduced to trace levels in the beverage composition. Many ingredients classified as supplements are minerals and salts. Adding them to the beverage composition of the invention could pose a risk of creating a cumulative over supplementation situation and result in additional stress being placed on the renal and digestive systems.

[0080] In one embodiment, salts and minerals already present in solid pet foods or other sources are omitted from the beverage composition. Many salts and minerals are already present in sufficient quantities in solid foods, thus providing additional quantities in a fortified beverage would serve no benefit, and may contribute to overloading in the general diet.

[0081] A suitable preservative, such as potassium sorbate, potassium benzoate or the like, may be added at levels sufficient to provide shelf stability to the product. The preservative may be present in the beverage composition in any suitable amount, with minimal effective amounts being preferred. Potassium sorbate, for example, may be present in the composition in an amount of about 0.1 g/l to about 1 g/l. In one embodiment, potassium sorbate is present in an amount of 0.25 g/l. Other treatments such as ozone or carbon dioxide may also be used to improve shelf life and limit biological growth. A skilled person can easily select a preservative or treatment for use in accordance with the present invention.

[0082] The pH of the beverage can be selected by persons of skill in the art. In one embodiment, the pH of the composition is between 5.5 and 7.5. In one embodiment, the pH of the composition is between about 6.0 and 7.0. In a preferred embodiment, the pH of the composition is between about 6.2 and 6.8 inclusive. It has been shown that compositions having pH values below 6.2 can increase the incidence of calcium oxylate crystals in dogs and cats, while pH values above 6.8 can increase the development of struvite crystals in dogs and especially cats.

[0083] In a preferred embodiment, the beverage composition is substantially free of masking or bulking agents that provide little to no nutrient value to the animal, including ingredients added as manufacturing process aids or cost control alternatives in many processed foods. An exemplary bulking agent is maltodextrin, identified in literature as slowing gut motility and increasing fat uptake in the Gl tract.

[0084] In a preferred embodiment, food colourings and dyes are avoided. It is believed the food colouring and dyes serve no purpose other than superficial cosmetic appeal to human buyers. Moreover, food colourings and dyes may subtly affect palatability and, in some cases, may actually do harm to the animals. If desired for marketing purposes, a colourant could be added so long as taste, animal attraction to the beverage, and animal health are not compromised. The beverage composition may be packaged in any suitable container, such as a re-sealable bottle or a water cooler container, and may be labelled for non-human consumption. The beverage may be provided to a customer in any desired quantity and is suitable for use by individual pet owners, veterinary hospitals, animal shelters, farms, and zoos, among many others.

[0085] In accordance with one embodiment, the present invention provides a beverage composition comprising reverse osmosis water, an attractant comprising odor and flavour properties to encourage consumption, and one or more bioactive ingredients for promoting renal or Gl health selected from enzymes and plant extracts, the composition having a mimetic property and containing less than 200 ppm dissolved solids, such as from P, K, Ca, Mg, Cu, Zn, B, Fe, Mn and Na. In one embodiment, the composition comprises less than 100 ppm dissolved solids. In one embodiment, the composition has a pH between about 6.2 and 6.8.

[0086] In another embodiment, the composition comprises reverse osmosis water, aloe extract, papaya extract, natural attractant, and potassium sorbate, and contains less than 100 ppm dissolved solids from P, K, Ca, Mg, Cu, Zn, B, Fe, Mn and Na. [0087] The skilled person will be able to formulate a wide variety of beverage compositions based on the teachings set forth herein, without the use of inventive ingenuity. Modifications and variations to the beverage compositions taught herein, particularly with regard to the optional bioactive ingredients, are considered to fall within the scope of the present invention.

[0088] Table 1. Exemplary Bioactive Ingredients

[0089] Example 1

Exemplary Beverage Composition Comprising Attractant

[0090] A 4-litre batch of an exemplary beverage composition was made by adding

4.8 ml of a liquid attractant (#2102, proprietary to Aquience Inc., PEI, Canada) to 3995.2 ml of reverse osmosis water and mixing, for a concentration 1.2 ml/l (0.12% v/v). Good solubility was achieved with a slight colour tinting.

[0091] Example 2

Exemplary Beverage Compositions: Formulations and Testing

[0092] A series of 10 compositions were prepared to assess animal attraction as well as manufacturing tolerances. Reverse osmosis water was used as the base fluid. Attractants used were liquid attractants #2102 and #2103, proprietary to Aquience Inc, PEI, Canada. The liquid attractants are made by proprietary organic chemistry methods reacting amino acids and sugars to produce attractants having a flavour and odor reminiscent of a meat. Attractant #2102 is an aqueous-based attractant while attractant #2103 is a lipid-based attractant. These particular attractants also have a mimetic property that elicits a response to convince the animal that they are consuming ingredients, such as ingredients found in tissues, that are not actually present. When the beverage is presented to some dogs, they actually try to "chew" the beverage on first exposure evidencing the mimetic properties the beverage.

[0093] Some of the compositions were tested on cats and dogs for taste preference.

The various compositions helped define functional usage ranges for individual ingredients. Batch size was 4 litres for all samples.

[0094] Table. 2. Exemplary base formula on which the series is based.

Attractant: 0.6 ml/500 ml 1.2 ml/l

Aloe: 0.1g/500 ml 0.2 g/l (optional)

Papain: 0.15 g/500 ml 0.3 g/l (optional)

K Sorbate: 0.125 g/500 ml 0.25 g/l (optional) [0095] Table 3. Batch 1 : Aqueous-based attractant #2102.

Attractant 2102 4.8 ml 1.2 ml/l

Aloe 0.8 g 0.2 g/l

Papain 1.2 g 0.3 g/l

K. Sorbate 2.0 g 0.25g/l

[0096] Table 4. Batch 2: Reduced attractant level compared to Batch 1.

Attractant 2102 2.4 ml 0.6 ml/l

Aloe 0.8 g 0.2 g/l

Papain 1.2 g 0.3 g/l

K Sorbate 1.0 g 0.25 g/l

[0097] Batch 1 was used as an attractant reference point. Batch 2 is a comparison at half loading of attractant. This was a direct preference comparison to be compared to Batch 1 to identify any preference between two concentrations of like attractant. The lower concentration achieved equal attraction as the high concentration when fed to cats and dogs. Lower effective concentrations are preferred for economical reasons. Some colour tinting occurred with the higher concentration of attractant. While this would not affect the function of the beverage composition, human preference would tend toward a colourless water-based beverage. Thus, the lower concentration may also be preferred from a marketing standpoint.

[0098] Table 5. Batch 3: Lipid-based attractant #2103.

Attractant 2103 2.4 ml 0.6 ml/l

Aloe 0.8 g 0.2 g/l

Papain 1.2 g 0.3 g/l

K Sorbate 1.0 g 0.25 g/l

[0099] Batch 2 and 3 were compared for preference with cats and dogs. The testing showed that cats drank both enthusiastically, perhaps with a slight preference for attractant #2102. Attractant #2102 is an aqueous-based attractant while #2103 is a lipid-based attractant. It is possible that there may a textural preference, even at relatively low use levels.

[00100] Table 6. Batch 4: No Attractant.

Aloe 0.8 g 0.2g/l

Papain 1.2 g 0.3 g/l

K. Sorbate 1.O g 0.25 g/l

[00101] Attractant preference testing on fortified beverage product versus water. Used as a control to indicate the important role of the attractants and verify the base palatability of the ingredients without attractant when compared directly with water. Animals prefer the composition containing the attractant.

[00102] The following compositions compare formulations with various amounts of the primary ingredients from Batches 1 to 4. Additional ingredients were also tested. High and low levels of various additives were compared for manufacturing tolerances.

Lo = Initial levels used in Batches 2 to 4.

Hi = Initial levels x 10.

Single Ingredient variances in base formula.

Additional ingredients added and varied to base formula.

Used Batches 2-4 as Lo levels for primary ingredients.

[00103] Table 7. Batch 5: Hi/Lo Series - Aloe HI

Attractant 2102 1. 2 ml 0.6 ml/l per ¹/₂ batch

Attractant 2103 1. 2 ml 0.6 ml/l per ¹/₂ batch

Aloe 8. O g 2.0 g/l HI

Papain 1. 2 g 0.3 g/l

K. Sorbate 1. O g 0.25 g/l

[00104] Table 8. Batch 6: Hi/Lo Series - Papain HI

Attractant 2102 1.2 ml 0.6 ml/l per /2 batch

Attractant 2103 1.2 ml 0.6 ml/l per Vz batch

Aloe 0.8 g 0.2 g/l

Papain 12.O g 3.0 g/l HI

K Sorbate 1.0 g 0.25 g/l

[00105] Table 9. Batch 7: Hi/Lo Series - Bromelain LO

Attractant 2102 1. 2 ml 0.6 ml/l per Vz batch

Attractant 2103 1. 2 ml 0.6 ml/l per Yz batch

Aloe 0 ■8 g 0.2 g/l

Papain 1. 2 g 0.3 g/l

K Sorbate 1. O g 0.25 g/l

Bromelain 2. O g 0.5 g/l LO

[00106] Bromelain is added as an effective protein breaker. Looking to identify improved protein uptake in gut as well as reduced residual protein after digestion in urine and stool. Combined with Aloe, produces positive outcomes for stool consistency and odour as well as less fermentation in the gut.

[00107] Table 10. Batch 8: Hi/Lo Series - Bromelain HI

Aloe 0.8 g 0.2 g/l

Papain 1.2 g 0.3 g/l

K Sorbate 1.0 g 0.25 g/l

Bromelain 20.0 g 5.0 g/l

[00108] This mixture produced excessive stiff foam. Manufacturing difficulties may define this as an upper limit use level for bromelain. Attractant could not be added. This batch thus would likely be rejected due to ingredient taste. [00109] Table 11. Batch 9: Hi/Lo Series - β-Carotene LO

Attractant 2102 1.2 ml 0.6 ml/l per VT. batch

Attractant 2103 1.2 ml 0.6 ml/I per ¹/₂ batch

Aloe 0.8 9 0.2 g/l

Papain 1.2 g 0.3 g/l

K Sorbate 1.0 g 0.25 g/l

B Carotene 1.6 g 0.4 g/l Lo Additional Ir

[00110] Used to identify anti-oxidant effects in standard testing at LO use levels. This formulation produced insolubles which quickly settled.

[00111] Table 12. Batch 10: Hi/Lo Series - β-Carotene HI

Attractant 2102 1.2 ml 0.6 ml/I per /2 batch

Attractant 2103 1.2 ml 0.6 ml/l per ¹/₂ batch

Aloe 0.8 g 0.2 g/l

Papain 1.2 g 0.3 g/l

K Sorbate 1.0 g 0.25 g/l β Carotene 16.O g 4.0 g/l Hi Additional In

[00112] Used to identify anti-oxidant effects in standard testing at Hi use levels. This batch produced high insolubles. Also produced a 2 inch foam head on mixing. Head bubbles rapidly reacted to a clear top fluid.

[00113] Example 3

Testing of Exemplary Beverage Composition

[00114] Test cats of different body weights and ages were offered regular water for one week followed by a beverage composition of the present invention for one week. The beverage composition used was a proprietary composition to Aquience Inc. of Charlottetown, PE, Canada marketed under the tradename PetQuench™. The PetQuench™ beverage contains reverse osmosis water, proprietary attractant, aloe extract, papain and potassium sorbate. Average daily fluid consumption (corrected for evaporation), average daily urination frequency (number of times per day), and urine specific gravity, were measured. The results are exemplified in Figures 1 to 3. Average daily bowel movements (number per day) were also monitored.

[00115] The results for fluid intake for three individual cats are shown in Figure 1 , along with the Polydipsia threshold for each cat based on weight. In each case, water consumption was increased in cats offered PetQuench™ compared to cats offered regular water. The average daily consumption of water for the three cats shown in Figure 1 was 84.25 mis per day. The average intake for the same cats offered PetQuench™ was 146.6 mis per day, for an average increase of 74%. This is a significant increase over regular water. The amount of fluid consumed was well below polydipsia threshold in all cases.

[00116] As shown in Figure 2, urination frequency was increased in all cats drinking

PetQuench™ for one week compared to regular water. This is a result of increased consumption. The average daily urination frequency in cats drinking regular water was 1.42, while the average daily urination frequency in cats drinking PetQuench™ was 3.13, for an average increase of 120%. Increases in water intake and urination frequency result in less concentrated urine which promotes a healthy urinary system.

[00117] As shown in Figure 3, urine specific gravity was reduced in the cats drinking

PetQuench™ for one week. The cats had an average urine specific gravity of 1.044 when drinking regular water, which was reduced to 1.031 following one week of PetQuench™. This is an average decrease of 30%, which is significant. There are different types of renal diseases. Higher than normal urinary specific gravity is found in other urinary tract diseases, in particular, lower urinary tract diseases, and in those cases, encouraging drinking helps to decrease urine concentration. Lower urinary tract diseases like FLUTD or idiopathic cystitis cause high urine specific gravity. In patients with urinary tract disease, it is important to produce a mid-range urine specific gravity by maintaining proper hydration. PetQuench™, and other embodiments of the present invention, provides clinicians and owners with a safe and consistent means to address the need to increase fluid intake. If kidney function is altered, as is the case in renal failure, the specific gravity is already low and patients are prone to development of urinary tract infections. However, because renal failure results in a constant state of clinical or sub-clinical dehydration, promoting or encouraging drinking is still a very important adjunct to therapy, and PetQuench™ would be a useful adjunct for such patients.

[00118] The average number of bowel movements per day in the cats drinking regular water was 1.16 and the average number was 1.39 for cats drinking PetQuench™ for one week. No diarrhea was noted.

[00119] A complete blood panel was run on each cat prior to the test phase and after one week of drinking the Pet Quench™ beverage composition. All results were normal.

[00120] Example 4

[00121] Case Report of Use of PetQuench™ to Hydrate Sick Dogs

[00122] An owner of several show dogs reported using PetQuench™ after the dogs became ill from infection with a virus they had contracted at a dog show. The dogs had made multiple visits to the veterinarian and were in various stages of dehydration. They were receiving oral medications as well as injections to combat nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. The dogs would not drink or eat. The owner began providing PetQuench™ to the animals in small frequent quantities and the animals drank the beverage. In combination with the antinausea medication, the owner was able to hydrate the sick animals and avoid hospitalization and i.v. fluid therapy for most of the dogs.

[00123] The above-described embodiments of the invention are intended to be examples only. Alterations, modifications and variations can be effected to the particular embodiments by those of skill in the art without departing from the scope of the invention, which is defined solely by the claims appended hereto.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A beverage composition for promoting hydration of a non-human animal, comprising: purified water as a base fluid; and an attractant having at least a flavour and an odour; wherein the beverage composition has a mimetic property.

2. The beverage composition of claim 1 , further comprising one or more bioactive ingredients for promoting renal or gastrointestinal (Gl) health.

3. The beverage composition of claim 1 or 2, wherein the one or more bioactive ingredients for promoting renal or Gl health is an enzyme, a plant extract or a combination thereof.

4. The beverage composition of claim 3, wherein the enzyme is a proteolytic enzyme selected from papain, bromelain, and combinations thereof.

5. The beverage composition of claim 3, wherein the plant extract is aloe extract, papaya extract, or a combination thereof.

6. The beverage composition of any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the mimetic property is provided by the attractant, or by the one or more bioactive ingredients for promoting renal or gastrointestinal (Gl) health, or a combination thereof.

7. The beverage composition of any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the attractant is a natural attractant having a flavor and odor reminiscent of a meat.

8. The beverage composition of any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the attractant is a liquid comprising reacted amino acids and sugars.

9. The beverage composition of any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the attractant is present in a concentration of about 0.01% to about 1.0% of the composition.

10. The beverage composition of any one claims 1 to 9, wherein the purified water is reverse osmosis water.

11. The beverage composition of any one of claims 1 to 10, further comprising one or more additional biologically active ingredients for promoting the health of the animal.

12. The beverage composition of any one of claims 1 to 11 , which has a total dissolved solids concentration of about 200 ppm or less.

13. The beverage composition of claim 12, which has a total dissolved solids concentration of about 100 ppm or less.

14. The beverage composition of any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the pH of the composition is between about 6.2 and 6.8.

15. The beverage composition of any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the composition is substantially free of added vitamins, antioxidants, refined sugars or caffeine.

16. A beverage composition for increasing fluid intake in a non-human animal comprising:

(a) reverse osmosis water as a base fluid;

(b) a natural attractant having a flavour and an odour reminiscent of meat; and

(c) one or more biologically active ingredients selected from enzymes and plant extracts for promoting renal or gastrointestinal health; the beverage composition having a pH between about 6.2 and 6.8, a total dissolved solids content of less than 200 ppm, and having a mimetic property provided by (b) or (c) or a combination thereof.

17. The beverage composition of claim 16, wherein the attractant in an organic attractant comprising reacted amino acids and sugars and is present in the composition in a concentration of about 0.01 % to 1.0%.

18. The beverage composition of claim 16 or 17, wherein (c) comprises aloe extract, papaya extract, or a combination thereof.

19. The beverage composition of any of claims 1 to 18 for use in promoting hydration or renal health or gastrointestinal health of a non-human animal.

20. A method of promoting hydration or renal health or gastrointestinal health in a non- human animal, comprising: providing a beverage composition of any one of claims 1 to 18; and providing the beverage composition to the non-human animal for consumption.

21. The method of claim 20, wherein the non-human animal is a dog or a cat.

22. A commercial package comprising a beverage composition of any one of claims 1 to 18 together with a label indicating that the beverage composition is for consumption by a non-human animal.