![]() The trouble is, some manufacturers calculate their figures differently and in some instances they may even intentionally provide lower figures than they should in order to make their cost per day more appealing. Of course, every pet food comes with their own feeding recommendations and in most cases they are perfectly valid. Wondering how much food you should feed your dog or cat Use our basic calorie calculator to help your pets maintain a healthy weight for their life stage. What about the manufacturer's own feeding guidelines? The figures provided here are based on studies carried out by the Hummel & Trueman Hospital for Companion Animals in the US. ![]() Take a look at our guide to fine tuning your dog's feeding amounts here and if you are ever in any doubt, be sure to consult your vet. Dogs' nutritional needs also change over time so be sure to recheck how your dog is doing regularly. We recommend a structured daily exercise and nutritional program for both you and your pet.As mentioned above, these figures are only intended to provide a starting point and since every dog is different, finding the correct amount of food for yours will likely require at least a little trial and error. Note that most indoor cats receive very little sustained activity and many dogs do not receive adequate daily physical activity. Rather than simply altering portion sizes, tailored weight loss diets for dogs will contain targeted nutrients, such as fiber, protein and omega-3 fatty acids to help support their body. Typical MER factors: Weight loss1. You can then factor in a metabolic energy requirement (MER) depending on things like health, whether they’re spayed or neutered, etc. Your pet will likely be fed fewer calories if you are attempting to reduce weight and improve fitness. When it comes to achieving and maintaining an ideal dog weight, making sure they receive the correct nutritional balance is essential. Take your dog’s weight in kilograms, multiply by 30, and add 70 (or, take their weight in pounds, divide by 2.2, multiply this figure by 30 and add 70). The caloric needs of a particular pet may differ depending on such factors as lifestyle, genetics, activity level and medical conditions. *Please note that the calorie counts provided are guidelines for average lightly active adult spayed or neutered dogs or cats (1 to 7 years old receiving less than 30 minutes aerobic activity per day). General guidelines for safe weight loss in dogs are 3 to 5% body weight loss per month and about 0.5 pounds (0.25 kg) per month in cats (1 to 3% body weight).Īpproximate Daily Caloric Needs for Average Indoor Pets Cats Your veterinarian or veterinary healthcare team can easily help you calculate your pet's Resting Energy Requirements (RER) (the amount of energy your pet needs to maintain basic bodily functions) and their Daily Energy Requirements (DER). ![]() ![]() To calculate this, you need to consider your pet's activity level, age, and overall health. This is the amount of energy your pet needs to maintain its ideal weight. This number will depend on whether your pet is at an ideal weight or needs to lose or gain weight.ĭetermine your pet's daily energy requirements. Have your veterinary healthcare team calculate the number of calories your pet needs per day. ![]() Ĭheck the label of your pet's food to find out the calorie content per serving. While every dog is different and finding the right feeding amount for your dog is likely to need at least a little fine. Studies have shown that keeping dogs at their ideal weight can dramatically improve their wellbeing and add years to their life. Medical conditions such as thyroid disease and Cushing’s disease can contribute to weight gain or make it difficult to lose weight.ĭetermine the calorie content of your pet's food and treats. Feeding the right amount is just as important as feeding the right food. ![]()
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