RER
RER estimates resting energy requirements. This tool calculates it
as 70 * weightKg^0.75. It is not the default recommended
daily portion.
Pets
Pet calorie calculator
Estimate a daily calorie range for an adult dog or cat based on weight, profile and body condition.
General estimate
Estimate daily maintenance
Use weight, species and adult profile. The result is a reference for a better conversation with your veterinarian, not a fixed prescription.
Compare with current intake
If you enter only one field, the other is treated as 0. The comparison does not recommend automatic changes.
Publicidad
What RER and MER mean
The calculator uses the veterinary formula as a base and then applies general adult maintenance factors.
MER
MER adjusts RER using a factor based on species and adult profile. The main result is therefore a range, not one rigid number.
Weight, body condition and treats
Three practical details often change how the result should be interpreted.
Current or ideal weight
If a pet is not at an ideal body condition, current weight may distort the estimate. Ideal weight should be confirmed with a veterinarian.
Body condition
Underweight, ideal and overweight are not diagnoses in this calculator; they only help display cautions and avoid unsafe adjustments.
Treats and snacks
As a general guideline, treats and extras should stay near 10% or less of daily calories.
When to consult before making changes
Puppies, kittens, pregnancy, lactation, illness, therapeutic diets, working dogs and weight-loss or weight-gain goals require an individual recommendation.
Related tools
You can also use the pet age calculator to estimate a dog's or cat's equivalent age using a reference table.
View pet age calculatorFrequently asked questions
How many calories does my dog need per day?
It depends on weight, spay or neuter status, activity, body condition and health. This calculator estimates RER and MER as a starting point for adult dogs.
How many calories does my cat need per day?
An adult cat can be estimated using RER and an MER factor based on its profile. Actual intake should be adjusted by monitoring weight and body condition.
What does RER mean?
RER is the resting energy requirement. It estimates the basic calories a resting pet uses and is calculated as 70 times body weight in kilograms raised to the 0.75 power.
What does MER mean?
MER is the maintenance energy requirement. It is calculated by multiplying RER by a factor based on species and adult profile.
Why does the calculator show a range?
Veterinary guidance uses approximate factors, and each pet responds differently based on activity, metabolism, health and body condition.
Should I use my pet's current or ideal weight?
If your pet is at an ideal body condition, current weight can be a useful reference. If it is over- or underweight, confirm the ideal weight with a veterinarian.
What should I do if my pet is overweight?
Do not use this calculator as a weight-loss plan. Reducing portions without supervision can be risky; consult your veterinarian.
How many calories can come from treats or snacks?
As a general guideline, treats, snacks and extras should account for no more than about 10% of daily calories.
How do I compare the result with my pet's current intake?
Add the calories from the main food and daily treats. The calculator can compare that total with the estimated range without suggesting automatic changes.
How do I convert calories to grams or cups of food?
Check the kcal per cup, can or gram on the food label. The calculator does not convert portions because calorie density varies by product.