Daily calories for cats by weight
| Cat weight | Indoor neutered (×1.2) | Weight loss (×0.8) | Kitten (×2.5) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 lb | 131 kcal | 88 kcal | 274 kcal |
| 6 lb | 178 kcal | 119 kcal | 371 kcal |
| 8 lb | 221 kcal | 147 kcal | 460 kcal |
| 10 lb | 261 kcal | 174 kcal | 544 kcal |
| 12 lb | 299 kcal | 200 kcal | 624 kcal |
| 14 lb | 336 kcal | 224 kcal | 700 kcal |
| 16 lb | 371 kcal | 248 kcal | 774 kcal |
Tips that actually help
- Weigh dry food in grams if you can. A cup of kibble can vary by 20% depending on how you scoop.
- Feed several small meals. Cats are natural grazers. Puzzle feeders slow down fast eaters and give indoor cats something to do.
- Add wet food. It's lower in calories per bite and adds water, which helps urinary and kidney health.
Frequently asked questions
How many calories does a cat need per day?
A typical 10 lb neutered indoor cat needs about 260 kcal per day (an RER of about 218 kcal × 1.2). Many sedentary indoor cats need even less, so watch the scale. Active or intact cats need more. Cats that need to lose weight need less, and should diet under vet supervision.
How much dry food should I feed my cat?
Most dry cat foods have 350 to 500 kcal per cup, so a 10 lb indoor cat needs roughly ½ to ¾ cup a day. Use a measuring cup or kitchen scale. A "scoop" can be twice that.
Is it dangerous for cats to lose weight fast?
Yes. Overweight cats that suddenly stop eating or lose weight too quickly can develop hepatic lipidosis (fatty liver), which is life-threatening. Aim for about 1% of body weight lost per week.