1. What is the Purina Cat Food Calculator?

The Purina Cat Food Calculator helps determine the appropriate daily amount of cat food to feed based on your cat's energy requirements and the calorie content of the specific Purina food product.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following equation:

Where:

• MER — Maintenance Energy Requirement (kcal/day)
• Food kcal per unit — Calorie content per cup or can of food (kcal)

Explanation: The calculation divides your cat's daily energy needs by the energy provided by each unit of food to determine how much to feed each day.

3. Importance of Proper Cat Feeding

Details: Proper feeding amounts are crucial for maintaining your cat's ideal weight and overall health. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, while underfeeding can cause malnutrition.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips:

• Determine your cat's MER (consult your veterinarian if unsure)
• Check the kcal per unit information on your Purina food packaging
• Enter both values to calculate the daily feeding amount
• Divide the total by the number of meals per day for portion sizes

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How do I determine my cat's MER?
A: MER depends on weight, age, activity level, and neuter status. Your veterinarian can help calculate this, or use standard formulas like RER × activity factor.

Q2: Where do I find the kcal per unit information?
A: This is typically listed on the food packaging under "Guaranteed Analysis" or "Calorie Content." You can also check Purina's website or contact their customer service.

Q3: Should I adjust the amount based on my cat's body condition?
A: Yes, this calculation provides a starting point. Monitor your cat's weight and adjust amounts as needed, consulting your vet for guidance.

Q4: How often should I recalculate the feeding amount?
A: Recalculate whenever your cat's weight changes significantly, when switching foods, or if your cat's activity level changes substantially.

Q5: Does this work for all Purina formulas?
A: Yes, as long as you have the correct kcal per unit information for the specific product you're feeding.