September 17, 2025

How Much Should I Feed My Pet?🐶🐱🍽️

Feeding your dog or cat isn’t just about filling the bowl—it’s about feeding the right amount based on their age, size, activity level, and health. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, while underfeeding can cause malnutrition. So how do you know what’s “just right”?

Let’s break it down. 👇

🧮 1. Start With the Label (But Don’t Stop There!)

Most pet food bags or cans have a feeding guide. These are helpful starting points, but they’re based on averages and don’t account for your pet’s lifestyle.

Tip:
Look for a chart like this on the bag:

Example: A 20-lb dog = 1.5–2 cups per day
This assumes moderate activity—if your dog is more active or more sedentary, you’ll need to adjust.

⚖️ 2. Track Your Pet’s Weight (Don’t Guess!)

Use a pet scale at the vet or weigh yourself with and without your pet at home.
Then monitor body changes monthly.
Signs your pet is overweight:

You can’t feel their ribs easily
No visible waist when viewed from above
Trouble walking or breathing after mild exercise

Tip: Ask your vet for your pet’s ideal weight range and track progress over time.

📏 3. Use a Measuring Cup or Digital Scale

Don’t eyeball it! A “scoop” can vary from person to person.

✔️ Use:

A standard dry measuring cup
Or weigh the food in grams (especially for wet/raw diets)

Even 20 extra calories a day adds up over time—especially in small pets.

🕒 4. Feed Based on Life Stage & Lifestyle

Puppies/Kittens: Need more frequent meals with higher calories
Adults: Feed 1–2 times a day, depending on energy level
Seniors: May need fewer calories, but more joint or heart support

Also consider:

Indoor cats need fewer calories than outdoor ones
Working dogs (e.g., service or farm dogs) need more than couch potatoes

🥩 5. Adjust for Treats & Extras

Treats should make up no more than 10% of your pet’s daily calories.
Overdoing it with snacks? Cut back slightly on regular meals to compensate.

🐶🐱 6. Not All Pets Are the Same!

Two pets of the same weight might need very different portions.
Always consider:

Breed
Activity level
Spay/neuter status (fixed pets often need fewer calories)
Health conditions (e.g., thyroid, diabetes, etc.)

✅ 7. Talk to Your Vet for Personal Advice

If you're unsure or your pet is gaining/losing weight unexpectedly, check with your vet. They can create a feeding plan tailored to your pet's health, weight goals, and food type.