Free tool

Pet Feeding Guide

How much to feed your dog or cat, how often, and what to watch for — based on AAFCO nutritional standards and veterinary feeding guidelines.

The most common feeding mistakes

Overfeeding by eyeballing. Most owners pour kibble by feel, not weight. Studies show owners consistently overpour by 20–50%, which is the primary driver of pet obesity.

Not adjusting for treats. Treats should be no more than 10% of daily calories. If your pet gets treats, subtract that from their meal portion.

Ignoring the bag's calorie density. Different kibbles have wildly different calorie densities. This guide gives a general estimate — check your specific food's kcal/100g and adjust.

Feeding once a day. Most vets recommend 2 meals for adults, 3 for puppies and kittens, to maintain stable blood sugar and reduce bloat risk in large breeds.

Browse dog nutrition articles →