Palatability of sunflower oil-based vs aqueous verum formulations of molidustat in healthy cats.

ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to compare the palatability of sunflower oil-based and aqueous verum formulations of molidustat in healthy cats in a one-bowl study with two groups in a parallel design.MethodsA total of 16 adult cats (six males and 10 females) were divided into two groups of eight animals. Healthy cats trained on voluntary intake of a water/milk mixture offered in a bowl at daily volumes of 0.5 ml/animal over 4 study days (days -4 to -1) were included in the study. Daily general health observations were performed throughout the study. After the training, each cat was offered daily 0.2 ml/kg body weight of the same test formulation in a bowl for 7 consecutive days (days 0-6). The palatability of formulations was assessed individually by means of a visual analogue scale based on voluntary intake. The study ended on study day 7 for both groups.ResultsVoluntary intake scores were higher in cats in group 1 offered the sunflower oil-based suspension of molidustat. In contrast, almost no voluntary intake, even when cats were encouraged, was observed for the aqueous suspension of molidustat (group 2).Conclusions and relevanceThis study demonstrated that molidustat in a sunflower oil-based suspension was palatable to healthy cats. In contrast, the aqueous formulation was unpalatable.