How to Use This Feeding Calculator
Proper portion control prevents obesity and malnutrition. Our pet food portion calculator first estimates your pet's daily Maintenance Energy Requirement (MER) using weight, age, activity, and neuter status. Then, based on your specific food's calorie density (kcal/cup or kcal/g), it outputs the exact amount to feed daily. For best accuracy, use the manual MER input to copy results from our Daily Calorie Calculator (which factors in weight goals).
Always check your pet food bag for kcal/cup or kcal/g. For wet food, density is often listed per can or per gram. Adjust portions if your pet gains or loses weight unexpectedly.
Calculation Method
- RER = 70 Γ (weight kg ^ 0.75)
- Activity multipliers: Low=1.2, Moderate=1.4, High=1.6
- Neuter factor: Neutered=0.9, Intact=1.0
- Age factor: Puppy/Kitten=1.5 (growth), Adult=1.0, Senior=0.9
- MER = RER Γ activity Γ neuter Γ age (auto mode)
- Portion (grams) = MER Γ· (kcal per gram of food)
- Portion (cups) = MER Γ· (kcal per cup)
If you manually enter MER, we skip the estimation and use your value directly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Check the label's "Guaranteed Analysis" or manufacturer website. Typical dry dog/cat food ranges 300-450 kcal/cup. For wet food, use kcal/can or kcal/gram.
Yes, calculate the calorie density of your recipe (total kcal divided by total grams). Then enter kcal/gram manually.
Multiple meals reduce bloat risk, stabilize blood sugar, and improve digestion. Puppies need 3-4 meals; adults 2 meals.
Every 2-4 weeks for growing puppies/kittens, monthly for adults, or whenever weight changes by 5%.