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How do I calculate my cat's ideal daily calories for weight loss?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Male | 4 years and 5 months old | 21 lbs

I'm a but confused how to calculate my cats ideal calorie intake per day to get him to loose a few pounds . I would like to get him to 19 or 20 pounds and he is now about 22.5 pounds. I used formula 30 (target weight in kg) + 70, but I see there are other formulas? He is 4 years 5 months old and neutered. He eats hills science perfect weight dry food and he likes fancy feast 3 Oz can food. He is inside 60% of time and outside in and out during day light rest of time. Thank you

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Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

Published on August 19th, 2019

You're right, there are lots of ways of doing it. I like using the website below, but really you start by decreasing what Snoops is currently eating by 20% for 1 month and re-evaluate his progress. In general, cats will find more satiety eating wet food over dry food, and it is also lower in carbohydrates and higher in protein. I have had success using the "fancy feast" diet, which is one small can twice a day (making sure to choose the ones that sound like normal cat food, not spinach and cream or eggs and bacon!). If you don't see progress after 1 month, then discuss using a prescription weight loss diet with your vet. https://petnutritionalliance.org/cat.php

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