12 kg neutered dog
Input Normal activity, maintain weight, 10% treats, food with 350 kcal per 100 g.
Result RER 451 kcal → 722 kcal per day, including 72 kcal of treats and 650 kcal of food (186 g).
Pet Calorie Calculator
Everyday LifeFind a dog or cat’s daily calorie target and convert it into grams of food, with a treats allowance.
Your inputs
Result
Daily calories
—
kcal
- Resting energy (RER) — kcal
- Treats allowance — kcal
- Food calories — kcal
- Food per day — g
- Weight in kg — kg
- Weight in lb — lb
Change any input and the result updates instantly.
Formula and rules
- RER = 70 × body weight in kg^0.75
- Neuter factor: dog 1.6 if neutered, 1.8 if intact; cat 1.2 if neutered, 1.4 if intact
- Activity factor: low 0.8, normal 1.0, active 1.2, high 1.4
- Goal factor: lose 0.8, maintain 1.0, gain 1.15
- Daily calories = RER × neuter factor × activity factor × goal factor
- Food grams = (daily calories − treats) ÷ (kcal per 100 g ÷ 100)
- 1 kg = 2.20462 lb
Worked examples
4.5 kg neutered cat on a diet
Input Low activity, lose weight, 10% treats, food with 380 kcal per 100 g.
Result RER 216 kcal → 166 kcal per day, including 17 kcal of treats and 149 kcal of food (39 g).
FAQ
Why does the calculator ask whether my pet is neutered?
Neutered animals have a lower resting metabolism, roughly 10–20% lower energy needs. Using the intact factor for a neutered pet tends to overfeed and leads to gradual weight gain.
Should I weigh food or use a measuring cup?
Weighing is far more accurate. Kibble density varies between brands and even between bags, so the same cup can hold 15–20% more or less food than the label assumes.
Is this calculator safe for puppies, kittens or pregnant pets?
No. Growth, pregnancy and lactation have much higher energy demands and different formulas. Use this tool for healthy adult pets only and ask a vet for anything else.
Disclaimer: This result is for general guidance only and does not replace veterinary or medical advice. Consult a professional if your pet is ill, pregnant or on a special diet.