How this calculator works
Baseline water depends on body weight and includes dietary moisture. Food water is estimated using water density of about 1 kg per litre. A food rich in moisture can reduce drinking without reducing total water intake. Activity is shown as context; the calculator does not invent exercise multipliers or account for illness, dehydration, lactation or hot weather.
Formula
Total mL/day = body weight in kg × selected mL/kg/day. Food water mL ≈ food grams × moisture fraction. Baseline remainder = max(0, total water - food water).
Worked example
At 10 kg and 60 mL/kg/day, baseline total water is 600 mL. Eating 500 g of food at 80% moisture contributes about 400 mL, leaving a baseline difference of 200 mL. Continue to offer water freely.
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Frequently asked questions
Should I restrict drinking to this number?
No. It is a rough planning estimate, never a cap on access to water.
Why is the drinking estimate lower with wet food?
Wet food supplies water. Total intake includes both food moisture and water drunk separately.
Can I use this to treat dehydration?
No. Dehydration or illness requires a veterinary assessment and an individual fluid plan.