5 Ways to Know How Much to Feed Your Pet

1. Evaluate your pet’s nutritional needs

Each pet has unique nutritional requirements based on various factors, including:

• Species — Cats are obligate carnivores who require a diet high in animal proteins and fats. Dogs are omnivores and can digest animal- and plant-based foods.
• Age — Puppies and kittens have higher metabolic rates and need more calories for growth. Their diet should be rich in protein and fat to support development. Once pets reach adulthood, their calorie needs stabilize. Adults need a balanced diet that maintains weight and health. Older pets may require fewer calories because they are less active. They may also need different nutrient levels to support joint health and kidney function.
• Size and breed — Small-breed dogs and cats have faster metabolism and often require more calories per pound of body weight than larger breeds. Large-breed dogs grow rapidly and have unique nutritional needs to support their developing joints.
• Activity level — Highly active pets and working animals (e.g., herding dogs, hunting dogs) burn more calories and their diet needs to support their energy level. Pets with low activity levels, such as indoor cats or older dogs, require fewer calories to prevent weight gain.

2. Calculate how much to feed your pet

Determine the appropriate amount of food for your pet by:

• Checking the label — Most commercial pet foods provide feeding guidelines based on weight and age. These guidelines are a good starting point, but they may need adjusting to meet your pet’s individual needs.
• Using a calorie calculator — Pet calorie calculators can provide a more personalized feeding amount. These calculators consider factors like your pet’s weight, body condition score, and spay or neuter status to tailor a recommendation.
• Asking your veterinarian — Your veterinarian can offer the most accurate advice based on your pet’s health status. They can help create a feeding plan that considers any health conditions, such as diabetes, kidney disease, or obesity, as well as how much to feed your pet.

3. Monitor your pet’s weight

Monitor your pet’s weight and overall health regularly to keep them on the right path, whether they need to lose, gain, or maintain their weight. Keep your furry friend in good health through:

• Regular weigh-ins — Weigh your pet regularly on your home scale or at your veterinarian’s office. Small fluctuations are normal, but significant changes can indicate health issues that can influence how much to feed your pet. Keep a weight journal to track trends and identify potential problems early.
• Body condition assessments — Learn to assess your pet’s body condition using a body condition score (BCS) chart. This visual tool helps you determine if your pet is underweight, ideal, or overweight. A BCS of 4 to 5 out of 9 is considered ideal for most pets. You should be able to feel your pet’s ribs without an excess fat covering, and they should have a visible waist when viewed from above.

4. Avoid common pet feeding mistakes

To keep your pet’s diet healthy and balanced, avoid the following common pitfalls:

• Overfeeding treats — Treats should make up no more than 10% of your pet’s daily caloric intake. Opt for healthy, low-calorie treats and use them sparingly. Consider kibble pieces or fresh veggies as training rewards.
• Free feeding — Leaving food out all day (i.e., free feeding) can lead to overeating and obesity, especially in bored pets. Scheduled meals control portion sizes and establish a routine.

5. Maintain a healthy feeding routine for your pet

Establishing an appropriate feeding routine is key to maintaining your pet’s health, so follow these tips:

• Measure portions — Use a measuring cup to verify that you’re giving the correct amount of food. Eyeballing portions can easily lead to overfeeding. Regularly review and adjust portion sizes based on your pet’s weight and activity level.
• Stay consistent — Stick to the same brand and type of food unless your veterinarian advises otherwise. Sudden changes can cause digestive issues and stomach upset. If a change is necessary, transition gradually by mixing the new and the old food for about a week to allow your pet’s digestive system to adjust.

Knowing how much to feed your pet is essential for their health and longevity. Consult your AAHA-accredited veterinarian for personalized nutrition advice that will help your pet thrive.