Use our free Feeding Portion Calculator to estimate a daily food amount for dogs and cats. Enter your pet’s weight, select species and life stage, then provide your food’s energy density (kcal per 100 g). The calculator estimates MER (kcal/day) and converts it to grams/day and per meal.
Daily Food Amount (kcal/day → grams/day)
Type to calculate – results update instantly. Check your food label for kcal per 100 g.
- RER = 70 × (kg0.75), MER = RER × life-stage factor.
- Food amount (grams/day) = MER ÷ (kcal per gram). If your label shows kcal/100 g, we convert automatically.
- These are estimates. Health, body condition, environment, and activity can shift true needs.
Veterinary guidance:
AAHA Nutrition Guidelines ·
Practical tips: PetMD
More tools: Pet Calorie ·
Dog Age ·
Cat Age ·
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Understanding the Pet Calorie Calculator
The Pet Calorie Calculator is designed to help pet owners estimate the daily energy needs of their dogs and cats. Just like humans, pets require a balanced intake of calories to maintain an ideal body condition. Feeding too little can lead to nutrient deficiencies, while feeding too much increases the risk of obesity, joint issues, and diabetes. This calculator gives you a science-based estimate that you can combine with professional advice from your veterinarian.
How Pet Calorie Needs Are Calculated
Veterinary nutritionists use two key concepts: Resting Energy Requirement (RER) and Maintenance Energy Requirement (MER).
- RER = 70 × (body weight in kg ^ 0.75). This represents the calories your pet needs at complete rest.
- MER = RER × activity factor. The factor changes depending on life stage, neuter status, and activity level. For example, an active working dog may require 2× RER, while a neutered house cat may need only 1.2× RER.
For detailed veterinary reference, see the AAHA Nutrition Guidelines and the WSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines.
Why Calorie Control Matters
Over 50% of dogs and cats in the United States are classified as overweight or obese ( Association for Pet Obesity Prevention). Excess weight shortens lifespan and increases the risk of arthritis, heart disease, and metabolic disorders. Using a calorie calculator helps pet owners make informed decisions and measure food more accurately.
How to Use This Calculator Effectively
- Enter your pet’s weight (kg or lb).
- Select species (dog or cat) and life stage (puppy, kitten, adult, senior).
- Adjust for activity level. A very active pet will require more calories than a sedentary indoor pet.
- Review the estimated daily energy requirement (kcal/day) and compare with the calorie content listed on your pet food label (kcal per cup or per 100 g).
- Adjust portions gradually and monitor your pet’s body condition score (BCS).
Learn more about BCS from Tufts Veterinary Nutrition.
Limitations and Veterinary Advice
The calculator provides an estimate, not a prescription. Individual calorie needs can vary due to breed, metabolism, environment, and health conditions. Always monitor your pet’s weight and body shape over time, and consult with your veterinarian before making significant dietary changes. If your pet has medical conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, or pancreatitis, a customized diet plan is essential.
Related Tools
Explore more free calculators: Feeding Portion Calculator, Dog Age Calculator, Cat Age Calculator, or browse our WVPet Shop for personalized pet products.