CatsLib

Cat Food Protein Calculator (Dry Matter Basis)

Convert “as-fed” protein to dry matter protein % (DMB) using protein% and moisture%. This makes wet vs dry food comparisons fair.

Easy wet vs dry comparison Mobile-first Simple formula

Quick answer

Why dry matter matters

Wet food contains a lot of water, so its “as-fed” protein % looks lower. Dry matter basis removes water from the math so you can compare foods fairly.

DMB protein % answers: “How much protein is in the food after water is removed?”
Current estimate
As-fed protein
0%
Moisture
0%
Protein (dry matter basis)
0%

Inputs

From the Guaranteed Analysis label.

Wet foods are often ~75–82%. Dry foods ~8–12%.

Quick tip
If your label doesn’t list moisture, you can use a typical estimate: 10% for dry kibble or 78% for canned wet food. (Then refine later using the actual moisture if available.)

What this tells you (and what it doesn’t)

Dry matter protein % helps you compare foods fairly, but it doesn’t tell the whole story. Ingredient quality, amino acid profile, calories, and your cat’s health needs still matter. Use this calculator as a comparison tool — not as veterinary advice.

How this calculator works (formulas)

Food labels show protein on an as-fed basis (including water). To compare foods with different moisture levels, we convert to dry matter basis (DMB).

Step 1: Dry matter %

Dry matter % = 100 − moisture%

Step 2: Protein on a dry matter basis

Protein (DMB %) = (as-fed protein% ÷ dry matter%) × 100

Example: Protein 10%, Moisture 78% → Dry matter 22% → DMB protein = (10 ÷ 22) × 100 ≈ 45.45%

FAQ

Why does wet food look “lower” in protein?

Because wet food contains much more water. The label protein% includes that water weight. Dry matter basis removes water so you can compare fairly.

What if my label doesn’t list moisture?

You can use a typical estimate (for example, ~10% for kibble and ~78% for canned wet food), then update later if you find the actual moisture value from the manufacturer.

Is higher DMB protein always better?

Not always. Protein quality, calories, fat/carb balance, and your cat’s health needs matter. Use DMB as one comparison metric, and consult a vet for medical diets.

Sources & notes

This tool uses standard dry matter conversion math based on label percentages. It is for comparison and budgeting of nutrients, not veterinary advice.

  • Guaranteed Analysis label (protein% and moisture%)
  • Dry matter conversion: nutrient ÷ (100 − moisture) × 100