Pet Food Portion Calculator
Why Portion Control Matters
Overfeeding leads to obesity, joint stress, and metabolic disease, while underfeeding can cause nutrient deficiencies and lethargy. Using energy-based formulas brings consistency to mealtimes and helps you adjust portions as your pet ages, exercises more, or switches foods.
From Energy Needs to Cups
Veterinarians estimate a resting energy requirement (RER) using , where is weight in kilograms. Multiply RER by an activity factor to obtain maintenance energy requirement (MER): . Dividing MER by the calorie density of your food yields the cups per day displayed by the calculator.
Sample Daily Portions
| Pet | Weight (kg) | Activity | Cups per day |
|---|---|---|---|
| Indoor cat | 4.5 | Low | 0.6 |
| Adult dog | 18 | Normal | 2.1 |
| Active dog | 27 | High | 3.6 |
Use these figures as a starting point, then monitor body condition. Adjust portions by 5–10% at a time until ribs feel lightly covered and a waistline is visible from above.
Practical Feeding Tips
Measure meals with a dedicated scoop, split servings into two or more feedings, and account for treats in the total calorie budget. During weight loss plans, your veterinarian may advise feeding at the target weight's MER instead of the current weight. For pets with medical conditions, always follow professional guidance over general rules.