Cat Calorie Calculator
Calculate daily calorie requirements for your cat based on weight, age, and condition
Calculate Cat Calorie Requirements
Enter your cat's current body weight
Select your cat's current life stage or condition
Calorie Requirements Results
Enter cat weight to calculate calorie requirements
📐 Calculation Formulas
Step 1 - Resting Energy Requirement (RER):
RER = 70 × (weight in kg)^0.75
Step 2 - Maintenance Energy Requirement (MER):
MER = RER × Maintenance Coefficient
RER represents energy needed for basic bodily functions. MER includes energy for daily activities based on life stage and condition.
Maintenance Coefficients Reference
| Cat Condition/Life Stage | Coefficient |
|---|---|
| Neutered adult cat | 1.6 |
| Non-neutered adult cat | 1.8 |
| Weight loss program | 1 |
| Weight gain needed | 1.7 |
| 0-4 months old kitten | 3 |
| 4 months to adult kitten | 2 |
| Senior cat (7+ years) | 1.4 |
| Pregnant cat | 2 |
| Lactating cat | 2.5 |
Example Calculation
4.5 kg Neutered Adult Cat
Cat Weight: 4.5 kg (9.9 lbs)
Condition: Neutered adult cat
Maintenance Coefficient: 1.6
RER: 70 × (4.5)^0.75 = 70 × 3.36 = 235 kcal/day
Final Calculation
MER = RER × Maintenance Coefficient
MER = 235 × 1.6
MER = 376 kcal/day
Calories per pound: 376 ÷ 9.9 = 38 kcal/lb
Cat Life Stages & Nutrition
Kittens
High energy needs for growth
300-500 kcal/day typical
Adult Cats
Maintenance energy levels
20 kcal/lb average
Senior Cats
Reduced energy needs
Less active metabolism
Feeding Guidelines
Divide daily calories into 2-3 meals
Monitor body condition regularly
Adjust portions based on activity level
Fresh water should always be available
Consult vet for significant diet changes
Understanding Cat Calorie Requirements
Why Calorie Calculation Matters
Proper nutrition is essential for your cat's health and longevity. Unlike the simple "20 calories per pound" rule, scientific calculation considers your cat's metabolic weight, life stage, and specific needs to provide more accurate feeding guidelines.
Factors Affecting Calorie Needs
- •Age: Kittens need more calories for growth
- •Spay/Neuter Status: Affects metabolic rate
- •Activity Level: Indoor vs outdoor cats
- •Body Condition: Weight management needs
RER vs MER Explained
Resting Energy Requirement (RER):
Energy needed for basic bodily functions like breathing, circulation, and cellular maintenance.
Maintenance Energy Requirement (MER):
Total daily energy including RER plus energy for activity, digestion, and thermoregulation.
Important: These calculations provide a starting point. Monitor your cat's body condition and adjust portions as needed. Consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding recommendations.