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.