How Much Should You Feed Your Dog or Cat? A Guide by Size & Age
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How Much Should You Feed Your Dog or Cat? A Guide by Size & Age
One of the most common questions pet owners ask is: "Am I feeding my pet the right amount?" It is a critical question — overfeeding is one of the leading causes of pet obesity, while underfeeding can lead to nutritional deficiencies and stunted growth.
The honest answer is that there is no universal portion size. The right amount depends on your pet's age, size, activity level, and the specific food you are using. Here is a practical guide to help you get it right.
Step 1: Always Start With the Food Label
Every complete commercial pet food includes a feeding guide on the packaging. These guidelines are calculated based on the food's caloric density and are your best starting point. They are usually presented as a daily amount based on your pet's body weight.
Important: The amount shown is the total daily portion — divide it across the number of meals you feed per day, rather than giving it at each meal.
Feeding Dogs: By Size and Life Stage
Dogs vary enormously in size, from 1 kg Chihuahuas to 60 kg Mastiffs, so portion sizes vary just as dramatically. Use your dog's ideal body weight (not their current weight if they are overweight) as your guide.
Puppies (up to 12 months, or 24 months for large breeds)
- Puppies need 2–3x more calories per kg of body weight than adult dogs to support rapid growth
- Feed puppy-specific food formulated for their breed size
- Feed 3–4 times per day up to 12 weeks, then reduce to 2–3 times per day from 3–6 months
- From 6 months onward, twice daily feeding is sufficient for most breeds
Adult Dogs (1–7 years)
- Small breeds (under 10 kg): Approximately 40–60 kcal per kg of body weight per day
- Medium breeds (10–25 kg): Approximately 30–40 kcal per kg of body weight per day
- Large breeds (25–45 kg): Approximately 20–30 kcal per kg of body weight per day
- Giant breeds (45 kg+): Approximately 15–25 kcal per kg of body weight per day
- Feed twice daily as a standard routine
Senior Dogs (7+ years, or 5+ for large breeds)
- Senior dogs are generally less active and need 20–30% fewer calories than adults
- Switch to a senior formula with lower fat, added joint support (glucosamine), and easily digestible proteins
- Monitor weight closely — both obesity and unintended weight loss are common in older dogs
Feeding Cats: By Size and Life Stage
Cats are obligate carnivores with very different nutritional needs from dogs. Unlike dogs, cats do not regulate food intake as naturally — making portion control especially important.
Kittens (up to 12 months)
- Kittens need 2–3x the calories of adult cats relative to body weight
- Feed kitten-specific food high in protein and fat
- Offer 3–4 small meals per day until 6 months, then transition to twice daily
Adult Cats (1–7 years)
- An average 4 kg adult cat requires approximately 200–250 kcal per day
- This is roughly 60–70 g of dry food or one 400 g can of wet food per day (always check the specific brand's label)
- Feed twice daily; avoid free-feeding dry food, which often leads to overeating
Senior Cats (7+ years)
- Many senior cats actually need more protein, not less, as they lose muscle mass with age
- Cats over 12 years old may need additional calories if they struggle to maintain weight
- Look for senior formulas with high-quality protein and added omega-3s for joint and coat health
Key Factors That Affect How Much to Feed
- Activity level — An active outdoor dog needs significantly more than a sedentary indoor dog of the same weight
- Neutered/spayed status — Neutered pets have lower energy needs; reduce portions by approximately 10–20% after the procedure
- Health conditions — Kidney disease, diabetes, and thyroid issues all affect nutritional requirements; always follow your vet's advice
- Treats and toppers — These count toward daily calories! Treats should make up no more than 10% of daily caloric intake
How to Tell If You Are Feeding the Right Amount
Use the Body Condition Score (BCS) as your ongoing check:
- You should be able to feel your pet's ribs easily without pressing hard, but not see them prominently
- There should be a visible waist when viewed from above
- The belly should tuck upward when viewed from the side
Weigh your pet monthly and adjust portions accordingly. Small, consistent adjustments (10% at a time) are far more effective than dramatic changes.
When to Ask for Help
If your pet is gaining or losing weight despite following the feeding guide, it is worth consulting your vet. Underlying health issues, metabolic differences, or the need to switch food types may be at play.
At Sauroq PetStore Kenya, our team can help you choose the right food and portion size for your companion's specific needs. Explore our range online or reach out on WhatsApp at +254715 120 807 for personalised guidance!
Sources: WSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines; Waltham Pocket Book of Essential Nutrition for Cats and Dogs (Royal Canin); VCA Animal Hospitals — Feeding Your Adult Dog and Cat.