Pets, Digital & Site Tool

Pet Calorie Calculator

Estimate daily calories for dogs and cats from weight, life stage, activity level and meals per day using RER and MER formulas.

Dog and cat calorie estimator

% of daily calories

Nutrition plan

Daily energy
Main food calories
Treat calories
Per meal
Servings per day
Servings per meal
RER
MER multiplier
Weekly calories

How the estimate works

RER = 70 × (Body weight kg)0.75
MER = RER × MER multiplier

RER estimates energy for essential body functions at rest. MER multiplies RER by a life-stage and activity factor.

Feeding and monitoring tips

1Use the calorie value for one serving from the label. A serving can be a cup, can, pouch, scoop or stated gram amount.
2Keep treats and extras within the selected allowance. AAHA commonly recommends no more than 10% of total daily calories for treats.
3Weigh or measure portions consistently and review body weight and body condition every 2–4 weeks.
4Calculated needs are starting estimates. Breed, health, environment, pregnancy, medication and individual metabolism can change requirements.
Calculated needs are starting estimates. Breed, health, environment, pregnancy, medication and individual metabolism can change requirements.

Pet Calorie Calculator FAQ

How many calories does my dog need?

Start with RER from body weight, then multiply by a dog activity or life-stage factor. The calculator does this estimate automatically.

How many calories does my cat need?

Cats usually use lower adult multipliers than dogs. The calculator adjusts common multipliers by pet type.

What is RER?

RER is resting energy requirement, estimated as 70 times body weight in kilograms raised to the 0.75 power.

Can this help with weight loss?

It can estimate a starting point, but weight-loss plans should be supervised by a veterinarian.

Food calories per serving

Use the calorie value for one serving from the label. A serving can be a cup, can, pouch, scoop or stated gram amount.