CalcCrafted

Cat Calorie Calculator

Estimate daily calories for a healthy adult cat from weight and adult status.

Calculate RER and an estimated maintenance calorie starting point for a healthy adult cat.

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Explanation

RER describes estimated resting demand, while MER applies an adult-status factor for an initial daily energy estimate. Individual cats may need meaningfully more or less than the calculation.

Formula and methodology

Weight is converted to kilograms and RER = 70 × weight in kg^0.75. The MER factors are 1.2 for a neutered adult, 1.4 for an intact adult, and 1.0 for an obesity-prone adult.

Worked example

A healthy 4.5 kg neutered cat has an RER of about 216 kcal/day. Applying 1.2 gives an estimated 260 kcal/day maintenance starting point.

Assumptions and limitations

This is for healthy adult cats and does not provide therapeutic weight-loss advice. Pregnancy, nursing, illness, unusual appetite, unexplained weight change, therapeutic diets, and significant body-condition concerns require individualized veterinary assessment.## Methodology references

These references inform the methodology. The explanation here is original and does not replace professional guidance.

Frequently asked questions

Does neutering change the factor?

The selected methodology uses a lower adult factor for neutered cats than intact cats.

Can this set a therapeutic diet?

No. Therapeutic diets and weight-loss plans require veterinary direction.

How should I use the estimate?

Compare it with complete-food guidance and monitor weight and body condition with your veterinarian.

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