1. What is the MER Equation?

The Maintenance Energy Requirement (MER) equation estimates the daily caloric needs of cats based on their weight and activity level. It helps determine appropriate food portions to maintain healthy weight.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the MER equation:

Where:

• \( weight_{kg} \) — Cat's weight in kilograms
• \( activity\_factor \) — Multiplier based on activity level (1.2-2.0)

Explanation: The equation accounts for the non-linear relationship between body weight and metabolic rate in cats.

3. Importance of MER Calculation

Details: Accurate MER estimation helps prevent obesity or malnutrition in cats by providing appropriate food portions tailored to their individual needs.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Weigh your cat accurately in kilograms and select the activity level that best matches your cat's lifestyle. For weight loss, reduce calories by 10-20% of MER.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How often should I recalculate my cat's MER?
A: Recalculate whenever your cat's weight changes by more than 10% or if their activity level significantly changes.

Q2: What if my cat needs to gain or lose weight?
A: For weight loss, feed 80-90% of MER. For weight gain, feed 110-120% of MER, adjusting based on progress.

Q3: Does this work for kittens?
A: No, kittens have higher energy needs. Consult your veterinarian for growing cats.

Q4: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It provides a good estimate but individual needs may vary by ±20% based on metabolism and environment.

Q5: Should I adjust for my cat's age?
A: Senior cats (10+ years) may need 10-20% fewer calories unless they remain very active.