1. What is MER?

MER (Maintenance Energy Requirement) is the daily caloric intake needed to maintain current body weight in adult animals at rest. The Purina Institute formula is widely used in veterinary nutrition to estimate energy needs for dogs and cats.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Purina Institute MER equation:

Where:

• \( weight_{kg} \) — Body weight in kilograms
• \( factor \) — Life stage and activity adjustment factor

Explanation: The equation accounts for metabolic scaling (weight^0.75) and adjusts for different life stages and activity levels with specific multipliers.

3. Importance of MER Calculation

Details: Accurate MER estimation is crucial for maintaining optimal body condition, preventing obesity, and ensuring proper nutrition for pets at different life stages.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and select the appropriate life stage/activity factor. For accurate results, use actual body weight (not ideal weight).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Q2: What if my pet is overweight?
A: For weight loss programs, feed 80% of MER for ideal body weight, not current weight. Consult your veterinarian.

Q3: Are there breed-specific differences?
A: Some breeds may have higher or lower metabolic rates. The calculator provides estimates - individual adjustments may be needed.

Q4: How accurate is this formula?
A: It provides a good estimate for most pets, but individual variations exist. Monitor body condition and adjust as needed.

Q5: Can I use this for very small or very large dogs?
A: The formula works across sizes, but giant breeds may need slightly less and toy breeds slightly more than calculated.