Sources & Citations
Every calculator and article on PetCalculator is built on published veterinary and nutrition science. Here are the organizations and references we draw from.
We cite the specific source at the bottom of each article, and document the exact formula and source behind each calculator on our How We Calculate Results page. This page lists the organizations we draw from most often, for reference. See our Editorial Policy for how we vet new sources, and our Review Process for how we keep content current.
World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA)
Global Nutrition Guidelines and Body Condition Score charts underlie our calorie, portion, and body-condition tools.
American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA)
Nutrition and Weight Management Guidelines and Canine/Feline Life Stage Guidelines inform our feeding-frequency and life-stage logic.
American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA)
Published dog- and cat-age charts and general pet-care guidance referenced by our age calculators and articles.
Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO)
Dog and Cat Food Nutrient Profiles set the minimum protein and fat allowances used in our macronutrient calculator.
American Kennel Club (AKC)
Breed standards and puppy growth/feeding guidance referenced in our dog breed guides and growth tools.
Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA)
Breed standards referenced in our cat breed guides.
The International Cat Association (TICA)
Breed standards referenced in our cat breed guides.
Cornell Feline Health Center
Feline life-stage, feeding, and gestation guidance referenced in our cat-focused calculators and articles.
VCA Animal Hospitals
Client-education articles on water intake, growth, and general care referenced throughout our guides.
Merck Veterinary Manual
A standard veterinary reference text used to verify gestation length, dosing concepts, and general physiology facts.
Companion Animal Parasite Council (CAPC)
Parasite-prevention guidance referenced where relevant to pet health articles.