Cat Maintenance Energy Calculator
Here's a comprehensive table summarizing the maintenance energy requirements for cats:
| Cat Type | Energy Requirement (kcal/kg BW) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Normal Weight | 100 | Approximately 55.1 kcal/kg BW (±1.2) based on meta-analysis1 |
| Heavy Weight | 130 | Higher energy requirement per kg due to metabolic differences2 |
| Neutered Adult | 1.2 × RER | RER: Resting Energy Requirement |
| Intact Adult | 1.4 × RER | Higher energy needs compared to neutered cats |
| Weight Loss | 0.8 × RER | Calculated using ideal body weight |
| Kittens (0-4 months) | 2.5 × RER | Highest energy requirement due to rapid growth |
| Kittens (4 months to 1 year) | 2 × RER | Slightly lower than younger kittens, but still high3 |
| Inactive/Obese Prone | 1 × RER | Lower energy needs to prevent weight gain3 |
Additional Information
- The Resting Energy Requirement (RER) is the base energy needed for basic bodily functions at rest3.
- For adult cats, a general rule of thumb is 20 to 33 calories per pound of body weight, depending on activity level3.
- Energy requirements can be more accurately predicted using allometric equations based on body weight:
- Light cats: 53.7 kcal/kg BW^-1.061
- Normal cats: 46.8 kcal/kg BW^-1.115
- Heavy cats: 131.8 kcal/kg BW^-0.3661
- When based on lean mass, the energy requirement can be calculated as 58.4 kcal/kg lean mass^-1.14012.
It's important to note that these values are guidelines, and individual cats may have different energy requirements based on factors such as age, activity level, health status, and environment12. Regular monitoring of body weight and condition is crucial for adjusting energy intake to maintain optimal health.