1. What is the Raw Fed and Nerdy Formula?

The Raw Fed and Nerdy formula calculates daily calorie requirements based on weight and an activity/energy factor. It's commonly used for determining appropriate food portions for raw-fed pets.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the simple formula:

Where:

• \( Weight \) — Body weight in kilograms
• \( Factor \) — Calories per kilogram based on activity level and life stage

Explanation: The formula multiplies the animal's weight by a factor that accounts for their energy needs, which varies by species, age, and activity level.

3. Importance of Calorie Calculation

Details: Accurate calorie calculation is crucial for maintaining optimal weight and health in raw-fed animals, preventing both obesity and malnutrition.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter weight in kilograms and select an appropriate factor based on your animal's needs. Typical factors range from 20-40 cal/kg for dogs and 30-50 cal/kg for cats, but consult a nutritionist for specific recommendations.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How do I determine the right factor?
A: Factors vary by species, age, activity level, and health status. Puppies/kittens, active adults, and pregnant/nursing animals need higher factors.

Q2: What if my animal is overweight or underweight?
A: Adjust the factor accordingly - use lower factors for weight loss and higher factors for weight gain, under veterinary guidance.

Q3: Should I use actual weight or ideal weight?
A: For overweight animals, some nutritionists recommend using ideal weight with a reduced factor, while others use actual weight with a much reduced factor.

Q4: How often should I recalculate?
A: Recalculate whenever the animal's weight changes significantly (more than 10%) or their activity level changes substantially.

Q5: Is this formula suitable for all animals?
A: While commonly used for dogs and cats, other species may require different calculations. Always consult a species-specific nutritionist.