Find out exactly how many calories your dog or cat needs per day — calculated using the same RER/MER formulas used by veterinary nutritionists.
Step 1 — Choose your pet
Enter your pet's current body weight.
Choose the option that best matches your pet's lifestyle.
Please select a pet type, enter a valid weight, and choose a lifestyle.
Recommended daily intake
—
kcal / day
Resting Energy Requirement (RER)70 × weight(kg)0.75—
MER multiplier—
Life stage—
⚠️ This estimate is for guidance only. Consult your vet before changing your pet's diet, especially for weight loss.
The science behind the numbers
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Resting Energy Requirement (RER) is the baseline calories needed for basic body functions at rest. Calculated as: RER = 70 × (body weight in kg)0.75
⚡
Maintenance Energy Requirement (MER) = RER × a lifestyle multiplier that accounts for activity, reproductive status, and life stage. This is the number you should actually feed.
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MER multipliers used (WSAVA guidelines):
Life Stage / Activity
Multiplier
Dog — Neutered adult
×1.6
Dog — Intact adult
×1.8
Dog — Active / working
×3.0
Dog — Puppy <4 months
×3.0
Dog — Puppy 4 mo → adult
×2.0
Dog — Weight loss
×1.0
Dog — Senior
×1.4
Cat — Neutered adult
×1.2
Cat — Intact adult
×1.4
Cat — Active / outdoor
×1.6
Cat — Kitten
×2.5
Cat — Weight loss
×0.8
Cat — Senior
×1.1
🚨 Is Your Pet Safe?
If your pet has ingested something potentially toxic, use our free Toxicity Calculator to assess the risk level instantly.