1. What is MER for Weight Loss?

The Maintenance Energy Requirement (MER) for weight loss is the estimated daily caloric intake needed to promote safe and gradual weight loss in cats. It's calculated by taking 80% of the standard MER for a cat's ideal weight.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following equation:

Where:

• \( ideal\_weight\_kg \) — The cat's target ideal weight in kilograms
• 0.75 — The exponent used for metabolic scaling
• 0.8 — The multiplier for weight loss (80% of maintenance calories)

Explanation: The equation accounts for the non-linear relationship between body weight and metabolic rate, with a reduction factor for safe weight loss.

3. Importance of Proper Caloric Intake

Details: Proper caloric restriction is crucial for safe feline weight loss. Too rapid weight loss can cause hepatic lipidosis, while insufficient restriction won't achieve weight loss goals.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the cat's ideal weight in kilograms (typically determined by your veterinarian). The value must be greater than 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How fast should cats lose weight?
A: Aim for 1-2% of body weight per week. For most cats, this means losing about 0.5-1 pound per month.

Q2: What if my cat isn't losing weight on this calorie amount?
A: Consult your veterinarian. Some cats may need further caloric restriction (down to 70% of MER) under veterinary supervision.

Q3: Should I adjust for activity level?
A: This calculation assumes average activity. Indoor-only or very sedentary cats may need slightly fewer calories, while active outdoor cats may need slightly more.

Q4: How often should I recalculate?
A: Re-evaluate every 4-6 weeks as weight changes, or if activity level significantly changes.

Q5: What about special diets?
A: Weight loss diets are formulated to provide proper nutrition at reduced calories. Always transition diets gradually over 7-10 days.