Get your dog or cat's recommended daily intake of protein, fat, and carbohydrates in grams — based on veterinary nutrition guidelines for raw and home-cooked diets.
🍽️ Enter Your Pet's Details
Daily Caloric Target
🥩
Protein
grams / day
🥑
Fat
grams / day
🌾
Carbohydrates
grams / day
Macronutrient Distribution
🥩 Protein
🥑 Fat
🌾 Carbohydrates
⚠️ These are general guidelines based on NRC and AAFCO standards. Always work with a veterinary nutritionist before switching to a raw or home-cooked diet.
How These Numbers Are Calculated
Step 1 — RER: We calculate the Resting Energy Requirement using the allometric formula RER = 70 × weight(kg)⁰·⁷⁵ kcal/day.
Step 2 — Daily Energy (MER): An activity multiplier is applied: Low = ×1.2, Moderate = ×1.4, High = ×1.8. Goal adjustments: Weight Loss = ×0.8 of MER; Weight Gain = ×1.2 of MER.
Step 3 — Macros: Calories are distributed using species-appropriate ratios. Dogs: Protein 30–35%, Fat 20–25%, Carbs 40–50%. Cats (obligate carnivores): Protein 50–55%, Fat 35–40%, Carbs 5–10%. Protein: 4 kcal/g, Fat: 9 kcal/g, Carbs: 4 kcal/g.
Cats vs Dogs — Key Difference
Cats are obligate carnivores. They cannot synthesise certain amino acids (like taurine and arginine) and must obtain them from animal protein. Their carbohydrate tolerance is very low, which is why this calculator assigns cats a high protein/fat split with minimal carbs.
💬 Frequently Asked Questions
The NRC recommends a minimum of 2.62 g of crude protein per kg of body weight per day for adult dogs. Active dogs need significantly more — roughly 4–6 g/kg. This calculator derives protein from your pet's caloric needs, distributing 30–35% of daily calories to protein (4 kcal/g).
Cats have very limited ability to digest carbohydrates and no dietary requirement for them. Veterinary guidelines suggest carbs should make up less than 10% of caloric intake. This calculator sets cat carbs to 5–10% and prioritises protein and fat accordingly.
Yes. The gram targets are a solid starting point for BARF or home-cooked diets. However, raw diets can develop micronutrient gaps over time. Always consult a board-certified veterinary nutritionist to ensure complete and balanced nutrition.