Materials and methods for regulating body weight in non-human animals

Abstract

The subject invention provides methods of inducing the loss of adipose tissue by providing a diet high in calcium. In one aspect of the invention, the calcium is provided in the form of dairy products. In yet another aspect of the invention, calcium is provided in the form of a dietary supplement, such as calcium carbonate, of vitamin supplements. Methods of suppressing [Ca 2+ ] i levels in individuals are also provided. The subject invention also provides methods of stimulating lipolysis, inhibiting lipogenesis, and increasing the expression of white adipose tissue uncoupling protein 2 (UCP2). The subject invention also provides methods of increasing the core temperature of an individual.

We claim:  
     
         1 . A method of regulating weight comprising administering dairy products in an amount sufficient to induce weight loss, prevent weight gain, and/or increase the metabolic consumption of adipose tissue in a non-human animal.  
     
     
         2 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the animal is a pet.  
     
     
         3 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the animal is a dog or cat.  
     
     
         4 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the animal is a mouse.  
     
     
         5 . The method of  claim 1  wherein the animal is a farm animal.  
     
     
         6 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the method reduces the risk of osteoarthritis, ligament injuries, perineal dermatitis, diabetes mellitus, cardiomyopathy, and/or urologic syndrome.  
     
     
         7 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the dairy products are administered in an amount sufficient to treat, reduce or attenuate obesity.  
     
     
         8 . An animal food package comprising a calcium-fortified or dairy-containing animal food and a description of the benefits of consuming calcium in regulating body weight and/or body fat.  
     
     
         9 . The food package of  claim 8 , wherein the animal food is pet food.  
     
     
         10 . The food package of  claim 8 , wherein the animal food is farm animal feed.