Nutrition Planner
Calculate your pet's ideal daily calorie intake.
Recommended Daily Intake
This is the Resting Energy Requirement (RER) adjusted for activity.
Pro Tip
Check your pet food packaging for the "kcal/cup" or "kcal/kg" value to convert this into actual portions.
The Science of RER and DER
Calculating your pet's nutritional needs is a two-step process involving the Resting Energy Requirement (RER) and the Daily Energy Requirement (DER).
RER is the energy needed to maintain basic life functions like breathing and digestion while at rest. Our calculator uses the metabolic formula: RER = 70 × (Body Weight in kg)0.75. This is more accurate than simple linear models, as it accounts for the surface-area-to-volume ratio of different sized animals.
To find the DER, the RER is multiplied by a "lifestyle factor." For instance, a neutered adult dog typically requires 1.6 times their RER, while a highly active working dog might need 2.0 to 3.0 times that amount.
Avoid Overfeeding
Obesity is the #1 health risk for domestic pets. Even a 10% calorie surplus daily can lead to significant weight gain over a year, stressing joints and organs.
Monitor Condition
Numbers are a guide. Always monitor your pet's Body Condition Score (BCS). You should be able to feel their ribs without a thick layer of fat, and see a visible waistline from above.