🐱 Cat Calorie Calculator
Built specifically for cats — not adapted from dog formulas. Uses the feline RER method with life stage and body condition adjustments. Get your cat's daily calorie target and cup estimate in 30 seconds.
🐱 Cat Calorie Calculator
Feline-specific RER formula with life stage and body condition adjustments.
Not a substitute for veterinary advice. These results are estimates based on established formulas. Individual dogs may have different needs due to health conditions, medications, or breed-specific factors. Always discuss nutrition changes with your veterinarian.
💡 How to Use Your Results
Use your cat's current body weight in pounds. Weigh by holding your cat on a bathroom scale and subtracting your own weight.
Kitten, intact adult, neutered adult, or senior (11+ years). Neutered cats need significantly fewer calories than intact cats.
Lean, ideal, overweight, or obese. This adjusts the target calories up or down. If unsure, ask your vet to assess your cat's BCS at the next visit.
Divide daily calories by the kcal/cup on your specific food bag. Always transition to new portions gradually over 7–10 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories does a cat need per day?
An average 10lb neutered adult cat needs roughly 200–280 kcal/day. An intact cat needs more (around 300–350 kcal/day). Kittens need proportionally more. The RER formula (70 × weight_kg^0.75) gives the most accurate baseline, which our calculator uses.
Should I feed my cat wet or dry food?
Veterinary nutritionists generally recommend incorporating wet food because cats are naturally low drinkers — wet food supports hydration and urinary tract health. A combination of wet food (main meals) and dry food (measured) is practical for most owners. Avoid free-feeding dry kibble, as it's the leading cause of feline obesity.
Why do neutered cats need fewer calories?
Neutering reduces metabolic rate by approximately 20–30% due to hormonal changes and often decreased activity. This is why neutered cats gain weight easily on the same portions that maintained their weight before the procedure. Many cats need their food reduced by 20% post-neutering.
How many times a day should I feed my cat?
Adult cats do best on 2 measured meals per day. Free feeding (leaving food out all day) is associated with overeating and obesity in indoor cats. Kittens under 6 months need 3 meals per day. Puzzle feeders and slow-feeding bowls can help active cats eat more slowly.
Is my cat overweight?
Check your cat's body condition score (BCS): you should be able to feel but not see your cat's ribs with light pressure. Looking from above, your cat should have a visible waist. Looking from the side, there should be a slight upward tuck at the abdomen. If you can't feel ribs without pressing, or there's no waist visible — your cat is likely overweight. Consult your vet.
Can I use a dog calorie calculator for my cat?
No — cats have significantly different nutritional needs than dogs. Cats are obligate carnivores and need more protein and specific nutrients (taurine, arachidonic acid) that dogs can synthesise. The life-stage multipliers and adjustment factors are also different. Always use a cat-specific calculator.
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