Compare a dog and cat estimate
Switch species, keep the same food-label calories, and see how body size and metabolic factors change the daily target.
Feeding & Nutrition
Dog & Cat Food Calculator
Estimate daily calories and convert them into cups from your food label.
How this works
From resting energy to daily cups
We compute RER = 70 × weight(kg)^0.75, then apply a life-stage and activity factor from AAHA and Pet Nutrition Alliance guidance. Divide by your food's kcal per cup to get daily portions. Adjust over 2–4 weeks while watching body condition.
Use cases
When to use the shared calculator
Use this page when you want one workflow that can handle either species, or when you need to compare a dog and cat estimate without switching tools. The shared page is also the best fit if you are helping a mixed-pet household and want the same inputs, scan flow, and meal split controls in one place.
Pick the fastest entry point
If you only feed one species most of the time, the dog-only and cat-only pages open with species-specific defaults and support notes.
Use it as a starting point
Re-check any estimate against body condition, stool quality, appetite, and the calorie density printed on the exact food you are feeding.
Label photos
How the calorie label scan works
The scan tool looks for the Calorie Content or Feeding Information block on the bag or can. It reads kcal per cup first; if the label only shows kcal per kilogram, we estimate an equivalent cup value so you can keep moving. Double-check the result if the photo is blurry, reflective, or cropped too tight.
Best photo setup
Fill the frame with the calorie table, keep the print flat, and avoid shadows from your phone.
What this page does not do
It does not diagnose disease, choose a prescription diet, or replace a veterinarian's feeding plan.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
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Is this calculator accurate for my pet?
It's a starting point built on the AAHA and Pet Nutrition Alliance resting energy formula. Adjust over 2-4 weeks while watching body condition.
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Where do I find kcal per cup on the label?
On the back of the food bag in the Calorie Content section. You can also tap the scan button to auto-fill from a photo.
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Why does it show cups and not grams by default?
Most U.S. pet food labels state kcal per cup. If your label lists kcal per kilogram, we can convert to grams once you enter that value.
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Should I feed the same amount year-round?
No. Weight, activity, life stage, and even weather shift daily needs. Re-run the calculator when any of those change.
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Does this work for puppies and kittens?
Yes. Use the Gain goal for growing pets, then switch to Maintain as growth plateaus. See the puppy vs adult guide for timing.
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