Technical issues exist with current approved approaches to calculating pet food caloric content. The Modified Atwater equation produces discrepancies when compared to the actual calorie content of pet foods as determined through feeding studies. These discrepancies are not consistent for all pet foods, and accuracy varies depending on the type and quality. For highly digestible pet foods, it may underestimate the Metabolizable Energy (ME).
Underestimating caloric content of pet foods isn’t just a numbers game, but can have effects on pet health and wellness. Adequate calorie intake is necessary for the maintenance of adult pets' bodily functions and for supporting the proper growth and development of young dogs and cats. Pet foods, as the sole nutrition source, have feeding recommendations designed to ensure adequate calorie intake.
