Abstract: A pet food is provided, comprising an edible, formulated, protein-rich body having a seared appearance, a moisture content of 20% to 60% by weight and a structure providing firmness of texture, such as to be resilient under initial pressure of biting by a pet animal and highly palatable. Protein content is preferably at least 20% by weight. The seared appearance is produced by exposure to a source of dry heat, such as in roasting, grilling, frying and baking and enhances palatability. Palatability may be enhanced further by reducing the pH of the food body, for example by applying an acid coating and allowing the acid to react with sugars in the body in a thermal browning reaction.

Abstract: A pet food is provided, comprising a sorbent food body and a fluid carrier comprising a functional ingredient absorbed into the body. The body preferably is realtively moist, having a moisture content for example of from 35% to 60% by weight and firm structure that is resilient under initial biting by a pet animal. Protein content is preferably at least 20% by weight. The sorptivity of the body is increased by depleting the body of a first liquid, for example by causing drying by exposure to a source of dry heat, such as in roasting, grilling, frying and baking. Methods of manufacture are disclosed including providing a sorptive food body, causing the body to take up a carrier fluid containing a functional ingredient and packing the body in suitable packaging. The invention further provides delivery means for delivering a functional ingredient to a pet animal, the delivery means comprising a sorbent food body with the functional ingredient absorbed therein.