Scientific Pet Calorie Math (WSAVA / NRC)
Veterinary nutrition starts with Resting Energy Requirement (RER): RER = 70 × (Body Weight in kg)0.75. This is the energy needed at complete rest.
Maintenance Energy Requirement (MER)
RER is multiplied by a life-stage activity factor (typically 1.2–1.6× for neutered/intact pets, up to 3.0× for growing puppies/kittens) to obtain MER (daily total calories).
Safe 7-Day Food Transition Plan
When switching food brands, transition gradually over 7 days to avoid gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, diarrhea):
- Days 1–2: 75% Old Food + 25% New Food
- Days 3–4: 50% Old Food + 50% New Food
- Days 5–6: 25% Old Food + 75% New Food
- Day 7+: 100% New Food