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Merck Manual
Veterinary Manual
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Daily Maintenance Energy Requirements for Dogs and Cats

Daily Maintenance Energy Requirements for Dogs and Cats

Animal

MERa (kcal/day)

Healthy adult dogs

Intact

1.8 × RERb

Neutered

1.6 × RER

Obese prone

1.4 × RER

Healthy puppies

<4 mo old

3 × RER

>4 mo old

2 × RER

Healthy adult cats

Intact

1.4 × RER

Neutered

1.2 × RER

Obese prone

1.0 × RER

Healthy kittens

2.5 × RERc

a MER = maintenance energy requirement

b RER = resting energy requirement

c Kittens can alternatively be fed free choice

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Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA is a global healthcare leader working to help the world be well. From developing new therapies that treat and prevent disease to helping people in need, we are committed to improving health and well-being around the world.  The Merck Veterinary Manual was first published in 1955 as a service to the community.  The legacy of this great resource continues as the Merck Veterinary Manual in the US and Canada and the MSD Manual outside of North America.

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