1. What is RER?

RER (Resting Energy Requirement) is the amount of calories required by an animal at rest in a thermoneutral environment. It represents the energy needed for basic physiological functions like breathing, circulation, and cell production.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the RER formula:

Where:

• \( BW \) — Body Weight in kilograms
• \( 70 \) — Constant coefficient
• \( 0.75 \) — Exponential factor

Explanation: The formula calculates the resting energy requirements based on metabolic body size, which is more accurate than simple linear calculations.

3. Importance of RER Calculation

Details: Accurate RER estimation is crucial for determining appropriate nutritional requirements for pets, preventing both underfeeding and overfeeding, and supporting optimal health.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the animal's body weight in kilograms. The value must be valid (weight > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What animals is this formula suitable for?
A: This formula is primarily used for dogs and cats. Different species may require different coefficients.

Q2: How does RER differ from MER?
A: MER (Maintenance Energy Requirement) includes activity level and is typically 1.2-1.8 times RER depending on the animal's lifestyle.

Q3: When should I use this calculation?
A: Use RER as a baseline for determining calorie needs for healthy adult pets at maintenance, or as a starting point for calculating needs in sick or recovering animals.

Q4: Are there limitations to this formula?
A: The formula may need adjustment for very young, very old, pregnant, or lactating animals, and those with specific health conditions.

Q5: How often should I recalculate RER?
A: Recalculate whenever the animal's weight changes significantly (more than 10% of body weight).