Abstract: The present invention comprises a method of improving bone health and muscle health in a companion animal comprising administering a composition comprising a fatty acid component to the companion animal wherein the fatty acid component comprises a ratio of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) to eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) from about 3:1 to about 25:1. The present invention additionally comprises a composition comprising a fatty acid component comprising docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) wherein the ratio of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) to eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) is from about 3:1 to about 25:1.

Abstract: Presently described are compositions and methods which utilize stearidonic acid (SDA). In one embodiment, the disclosure is directed to pet food compositions comprising SDA. In optional embodiments, the compositions are nutritionally balanced compositions, or supplements. In yet another embodiment, the disclosure is directed to methods selected from promoting bone or joint health, promoting chondrocyte functioning, maintaining tissue concentration of omega-3 fatty acids, promoting tissue concentration of omega-3 fatty acids, and combinations thereof, including the like, in a pet, comprising administration of a composition comprising SDA to the pet. In optional embodiments, the pet is a puppy, kitten, large breed dog, or geriatric animal.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are a variety of embodiments of compositions and methods which are each adapted for use by a companion animal. In one embodiment, an edible composition comprising an amount of a soluble mineral component is disclosed, wherein the soluble mineral component comprises one or more minerals selected from the group consisting of zinc, manganese, tin, copper, and mixtures thereof, wherein the amount is an effective amount for use as an oral medicament. In further embodiments, a phosphate component is included. The edible compositions are advantageously companion animal foods or supplements. Further disclosed are methods selected from treating oral cavity tartar, oral cavity plaque, periodontal disease, gingivitis, breath odor and combinations thereof comprising orally administering a described composition to a companion animal.

Abstract: A pet food composition is provided for large breed puppies which contains from about 0.75% to 0.95% by weight calcium and from about 0.62% to 0.72% by weight phosphorous. The composition further includes a source of protein, a source of fiber, and a source of fat. The pet food composition is fed to large breed puppies to provide optimum skeletal growth and reduce the incidence of skeletal abnormalities.

Abstract: An artificially produced feline milk substitute composition is provided. The composition comprises casein, whey, and as expressed on a dry matter basis, from about 30 to about 50 percent protein, from about 25 to about 50 percent fat, and from about 10 to about 25 percent lactose. The casein and whey in the composition have a ratio of about 1:1.