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Use the same exponential RER formula as dogs for cats over 2 kg.
RER (kcal/day) = 70 × (Weight kg)^0.75Neutered indoor adult: 1.2× RER. Intact outdoor active cat: 1.4×. Weight loss: 0.8× RER (never below 80% RER without vet supervision). Kitten: 2.5×.
DER = RER × Feline factorTarget 1–2% body weight loss per week. Reduce from maintenance DER by 20–30% for gradual loss. Recalculate every 2–4 weeks as weight changes.
Weight-loss calories = RER × 0.8 to 1.0Updated: July 2026
RER ≈ 218 kcal; DER at 1.2 = ~262 kcal/day. At 400 kcal/cup dry food, feed about 2/3 cup daily in measured meals, not free-fed.
RER ≈ 248 kcal; weight-loss target at 0.8× = ~198 kcal/day. Expect 60–120 g loss per week. Weigh weekly and adjust.
RER ≈ 145 kcal; DER at 1.4 = ~203 kcal/day. Outdoor cats with hunting access may eat less commercial food — adjust for prey calories consumed.
Cats have lower maintenance factors than dogs — neutered indoor cats at 1.2× RER vs dogs at 1.6×. Using dog factors overfeeds cats by 25–30%.
Never feed below 80% RER without veterinary monitoring. Rapid calorie restriction triggers hepatic lipidosis. Gradual 20% reduction from maintenance is safer.
Cats have distinct metabolic needs compared to dogs, and indoor cats burn fewer calories than outdoor hunters. Obesity affects over 50% of pet cats. This calculator estimates daily calorie requirements from body weight, life stage, and activity level for maintenance or weight management.