What are feeding recommendations based on?
While each animal is an individual, general feeding guidelines can be given based on the current weight of the animal, and how active they are, which determines how many calories are needed to meet their daily requirements. Recommendations are not given in terms of age or breed, because animals can vary significantly in their activity level at the same age or in the same breed. For example, you can have a very active 7 year old dog, who would require more calories per day than another 7 year old dog who has slowed down quite a bit. You can also see Persian cats, for example, who are very active and playful, and require more calories than other Persians, who may be couch potatoes. Feeding recommendations also take vitamin and mineral requirements into account, which is why it is important to follow feeding guidelines unless directed to do otherwise by a veterinarian. In cases where weight loss is desired, a recommendation can be given that will reduce caloric intake without compromising
