How Much Food Should You Give Your Cat?
Proper nutrition is the cornerstone of cat health. This calculator estimates the ideal daily portion based on weight, reproductive status, and food type, following FEDIAF and WSAVA guidelines.
How the Calculation Works
The formula is simple and validated by the veterinary community: Intact cat: about 40 kcal per kg of body weight per day; Neutered cat: about 30 kcal per kg per day (25% reduced requirement).
To convert calories to grams, the caloric density of the food is used: kibble contains about 3,600 kcal/kg, wet food about 900 kcal/kg. This is why the wet food portion in grams is about 4 times that of dry food.
The Feline Obesity Epidemic
According to recent veterinary studies, 40-50% of domestic cats in Western countries are overweight or obese. Obesity in cats causes diabetes, joint problems, urinary diseases, and reduces life expectancy by 2-3 years.
Practical Feeding Tips
Always weigh the food with a kitchen scale. Keep fresh water always available (cats prefer running water from a fountain). Place food and water bowls in separate locations. Use puzzle feeders to stimulate your cat mentally.
The Cat: An Obligate Carnivore
Unlike dogs, cats are obligate carnivores: they need animal proteins (particularly taurine and arginine) that they cannot synthesize. A vegan or vegetarian diet is dangerous for cat health. Always choose cat-specific foods and consult your vet for a tailored feeding plan.