Maintenance Energy Requirement (MER) accounts for the energy needed for your pet’s daily activities, including exercise, play, and even growth or lactation. MER takes your pet’s Resting Energy Requirement (RER) and adjusts it based on their activity level, lifestyle, and age.

How to Calculate MER

To calculate MER, multiply the RER by a factor based on your pet’s lifestyle. For example, for a moderately active dog, you would multiply RER by 1.5–2.0, while for a sedentary cat, it might be lower. MER is essential for understanding how much food your pet needs to maintain their current weight and health.

Why MER Matters

Understanding MER helps you feed your pet the correct amount based on their activity level and life stage. It ensures your pet gets enough calories for their day-to-day needs, without gaining excessive weight or losing muscle mass. Accurate MER calculations are crucial for managing your pet’s health, preventing obesity, and supporting an active, healthy lifestyle.

Tips for Calculating MER

• Use a dog calorie calculator or cat calorie calculator to calculate both RER and MER accurately.
• Consider adjusting MER if your pet's activity level changes (e.g., after surgery, in old age, or during pregnancy).
• Consult your vet for more tailored advice on MER based on your pet's unique lifestyle and health status.