Pet Calorie Calculator – Dog & Cat Daily Calorie Needs Calculator
Use our free pet calorie calculator to determine your dog or cat's daily calorie needs. Our dog calorie calculator and cat calorie calculator provide detailed breakdowns by activity level, life stage, and health conditions, with personalized recommendations for maintenance, weight loss, or weight gain.
How Pet Calorie Calculator Works
Our pet calorie calculator uses standard veterinary formulas to determine your pet's daily calorie needs. RER (Resting Energy Requirement) is calculated using the formula: 70 × (weight in kg)^0.75. This base metabolic rate is then multiplied by activity factors to calculate DER (Daily Energy Requirement), which accounts for your pet's activity level, life stage, and health conditions.
Understanding RER and DER
RER represents the calories needed at rest for basic bodily functions. DER accounts for activity level: sedentary pets need 1.2-1.4× RER, moderately active pets need 1.6× RER, and highly active pets need 2.0× RER or more. Puppies and kittens need 2.5-3.0× RER for growth, while senior pets may need 1.0-1.2× RER.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories does my pet need per day?
Daily calorie needs depend on your pet's weight, age, activity level, and health status. The calculator uses RER (Resting Energy Requirement) and DER (Daily Energy Requirement) formulas. RER is the base metabolic rate, while DER accounts for activity level and life stage. Puppies and kittens need more calories for growth, while senior pets may need fewer calories.
What is RER and DER?
RER (Resting Energy Requirement) is the number of calories your pet needs at rest to maintain basic bodily functions. DER (Daily Energy Requirement) is the total calories needed per day, accounting for activity level, life stage, and health conditions. DER is calculated by multiplying RER by an activity factor.
How do I help my pet lose weight?
For weight loss, reduce daily calories by 20-30% from maintenance needs and increase exercise. Aim for gradual weight loss of 1-2% body weight per week. Always consult with your veterinarian before starting a weight loss program, as rapid weight loss can be dangerous. Monitor your pet's progress and adjust as needed.
Related Tools & Resources
Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates based on standard formulas (RER and DER calculations). Individual pets may have different calorie needs based on metabolism, health conditions, and other factors. Always consult with your veterinarian for personalized calorie recommendations, especially for pets with health conditions, weight management needs, or special dietary requirements. Calorie needs should be adjusted based on your pet's body condition and weight changes.