Factors that influence food intake:
* Breed and size: Larger dogs naturally eat more than smaller dogs. Similarly, larger breeds of cats will eat more than smaller breeds.
* Activity level: More active dogs and cats will need more calories to fuel their energy expenditure.
* Age: Puppies and kittens need more food for growth and development. Older dogs and cats tend to eat less.
* Health: Medical conditions like hyperthyroidism in cats or diabetes in dogs can affect appetite.
* Individual preferences: Some dogs and cats are simply more hungry than others.
General Trends:
* Dogs: Generally, dogs tend to eat more than cats. This is partly because many dog breeds are larger and more active than most cat breeds.
* Cats: Cats are known for being more selective eaters. While their individual needs vary, they generally consume less food than dogs.
It's best to consult your veterinarian:
The best way to determine how much food your dog or cat needs is to consult your veterinarian. They can assess your pet's individual needs based on their age, breed, activity level, and health.