Calculating how much to feed your pet can be complex
Feeding based on volume or estimating the amount of food is subject to error and guides provided by pet food companies on their labels are only intended as a starting point.
Since there are so many variables that affect the energy requirements, your pet should be fed to their ideal body condition score – which your vet will calculate with you based on the animal's weight – and then adjusting their food to their individual need, based on any weight they gain or lose.
NOTE: Weigh rather than guess
Manufacturers’ feeding guides and all the calculations in this fact sheet are based on the food’s weight (in grams).
NOTE: Use accurate kitchen scales
Pet owners are advised to use accurate kitchen scales to weigh the food to the exact amount recommended by the manufacturer or their vet.
NOTE: Keep treats to a minimum
Treats and snacks should not form more than 10% of the whole diet’s calorie content (meaning a 90% calorie contribution from complete pet food, and up to 10% from treats).
Understanding the calorie content in pet food and also a pet's requirements is a complex topic. But as a starting point for creating a healthy diet for your dog or cat, we've developed these handy Calorie Calculators in accordance with FEDIAF’s Guidelines (European Pet Food Industry):
We've also created a fact sheet for veterinary professionals containing more detail on the formulas for calculating energy