Cat Calorie Calculator – Know how much your cat should eat
Every cat is unique. Whether your feline is a lazy napper or a midnight zoomie champion, they require different energy needs. With Catculator’s Cat Calorie Calculator, you can determine how much to feed your cat each day based on their individual profile. Take control of their nutrition – download Catculator today.
Did you know indoor cats tend to burn fewer calories than their outdoor counterparts? Or that neutered cats often have a slower metabolism? Feeding your cat without understanding their caloric needs can lead to serious issues like obesity, diabetes, joint pain, and even shorter lifespans.
By using a calculator tailored to feline nutrition, you can confidently manage your cat’s diet and avoid the common pitfalls of over- or underfeeding.
Table of Contents
How to calculate calories for your cat
- Weigh your cat accurately in kg or lbs.
- Use the formula:
Caloric Need = RER × Lifestyle Factor, where RER (Resting Energy Requirement) = 70 × (Body weight in kg)^0.75 - Multiply by an activity factor: 1.2 for neutered indoor cats, 1.4+ for active or growing cats.
- Use Catculator to handle the math for you!
Why calorie tracking matters
Calorie intake directly impacts body weight, organ health, energy levels, and longevity. Feeding “by eye” often leads to unnoticed weight gain. Tracking helps you detect weight changes early and adjust portions before health problems emerge.
Cats don’t self-regulate food well—especially with free-feeding. Structured calorie targets create accountability for their wellness.
Lifestyle and breed considerations
Some breeds like Maine Coons or Bengals have naturally higher energy levels and larger frames, while Persians or Ragdolls may require less. Age also plays a huge role: kittens and seniors have different metabolic rates.
- Kittens: Need more calories for growth
- Adults: Stable intake depending on activity
- Seniors: Lower needs but higher nutrient density
Common feeding mistakes
- Free-feeding dry food – Leads to grazing and weight gain
- Feeding based on packaging – Generic and often overestimates needs
- Treats not counted – Extra calories add up fast
- No portion control – Leads to inconsistent energy intake
Switching diets safely
Transition diets gradually over 7–10 days to avoid GI upset. Mix increasing amounts of the new food with the old. Monitor stool, appetite, and energy. Always consult a vet if your cat has health conditions or sudden weight loss/gain.
How Catculator helps
Catculator makes calorie calculation simple. Enter your cat’s weight, age, and activity level, and let the app provide daily calorie goals—whether you’re maintaining, gaining, or helping your cat shed pounds.
- Personalized calorie needs
- Goal-based planning (weight loss, maintenance, growth)
- Cat BMI & ideal weight tracker included