Puppy and Kitten Feeding Calculator

Look on the back of the bag for the 'Calorie Content' statement, usually expressed as kcal/cup or kcal/kg. If only kcal/kg is listed, divide by the grams per cup (typically 100-130 g/cup for dense kibble) and multiply by 1,000 to get kcal per cup. When in doubt, call the manufacturer.

Very young puppies have small stomachs that cannot hold large volumes, and their blood glucose regulation is immature, so frequent small meals prevent hypoglycemia and digestive upset. As the puppy matures, the digestive system handles larger, less frequent meals just as well.

The basic approach - RER times a growth factor - applies to both. Key difference: cats are obligate carnivores requiring higher protein and specific nutrients like taurine that are not essential for dogs. Always feed species-specific growth formulas (kitten food for kittens, puppy food for puppies). Never feed dog food to a kitten as the main diet.

You should be able to feel (but not easily see) the ribs with light pressure. The waist should tuck slightly when viewed from above. Your veterinarian can formally assess body condition score at each wellness visit and adjust feeding amounts accordingly.