top of page
Search

How Many Calories Does Your Cat Really Need?

  • Dr. Zeke Zekoff
  • Apr 3
  • 2 min read
ree

Feeding your cat the right amount of food isn’t just about reading the back of the bag—it’s about understanding their unique calorie needs. Whether your cat is playful and active or prefers long naps in sunbeams, ensuring they receive the proper number of daily calories is essential for long-term health.


The World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) has created a helpful guideline for the estimated daily calorie needs of healthy adult cats in ideal body condition. If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re overfeeding (or underfeeding) your feline friend, this guide is for you.


What Is a “Healthy Adult Cat in Ideal Body Condition”?

These recommendations apply to:

  • Adult cats (not kittens or seniors)

  • Cats at a healthy weight (not underweight or overweight)

  • Indoor or moderately active cats

If your cat is overweight or has a medical condition, these estimates will likely need to be adjusted. Your veterinarian can help customize a plan that fits your cat’s age, activity level, and overall health.


Estimated Calorie Needs by Weight

Here is a simplified look at the estimated daily calorie needs for a cat based on weight:

Weight (kg)

Weight (lbs)

Calories/day

2.0 kg

4.4 lbs

160 kcal

3.0 kg

6.6 lbs

210 kcal

4.0 kg

8.8 lbs

250 kcal

5.0 kg

11.0 lbs

290 kcal

6.0 kg

13.2 lbs

330 kcal

7.0 kg

15.4 lbs

370 kcal

This table continues for cats as small as 1 kg (100 kcal/day) and up to 7 kg (370 kcal/day). It's a great starting point for calculating how much food your cat really needs based on their size.


How to Apply This at Mealtime

Step 1: Check your cat's current weight (ask your vet if you're unsure).


Step 2: Use the WSAVA chart to estimate their daily calorie requirement.


Step 3: Look at your cat food label to find calories per cup, can, or portion.


Step 4: Divide your cat’s daily calorie target by the calorie content of the food to determine the amount to feed.

For example, if your 4 kg cat needs 250 kcal/day and your dry cat food contains 400 kcal/cup, you’d feed about ⅝ cup daily—divided into two meals, ideally.


Why This Matters

Many cat owners accidentally overfeed without realizing it—especially when using the scoops that come with food bags. Small overages add up over time, leading to weight gain and an increased risk of diabetes, arthritis, and other chronic conditions.

Conversely, feeding too little can lead to nutrient deficiencies, muscle loss, and behavioral issues due to hunger.


Final Thoughts

Every cat is different, but calorie control is one of the most powerful tools you have to support their long-term health. Use this guide as a starting point, then partner with your vet for adjustments based on your cat’s unique needs.

Feeding with intention isn’t just about weight—it’s about wellness.


Comments

bottom of page