Pet Food Crude Protein Calculator (Dry Matter Basis

Dry matter basis (DMB) protein comparison removes moisture differences between wet and dry pet foods. Wet food labels show low protein % due to high water content (~75-82%), but their actual protein can be equal to or higher than dry food when compared on a dry matter basis.

To use the Pet Food Crude Protein Calculator (Dry Matter Basis), enter your Crude Protein (As-Fed Basis on Label), Moisture Content (from label), Comparison Food Crude Protein % and other values. The calculator instantly computes Food A — Dry Matter Basis Protein %, Food B — Dry Matter Basis Protein % and more. Results update in real time as you change any input — no submit button needed.

How to Use This Calculator

Enter your Crude Protein (As-Fed Basis on Label) (e.g. 25 in %), Moisture Content (from label) (e.g. 12 in %), Comparison Food Crude Protein % (e.g. 10 in %), and Comparison Food Moisture % (e.g. 75 in %). Results update instantly — no submit button needed. Use metric or imperial units as labeled. For the most accurate result, measure height and weight in the morning without shoes.

The Formula

Dry Matter Protein % = (As-Fed Protein % ÷ Dry Matter %) × 100

Dry Matter % = 100% - Moisture %

Worked Example

Dry food: 25% protein, 12% moisture vs Wet food: 10% protein, 75% moisture.

• Dry food DM protein: 25 ÷ (100-12) × 100 = 28.4%.

• Wet food DM protein: 10 ÷ (100-75) × 100 = 40.0%.

• Wet food actually has higher protein on dry matter basis!

Understanding Your Result

Current evidence-based protein recommendations: Sedentary adults: 0.8 g/kg body weight (RDA minimum). Active adults: 1.2–1.6 g/kg. Athletes or those building muscle: 1.6–2.2 g/kg. Older adults (65+): 1.2–1.6 g/kg to counter sarcopenia. The RDA (0.8 g/kg) is the minimum to prevent deficiency — not the optimal intake for body composition or longevity. Protein at each meal (25–40g) maximizes muscle protein synthesis; distribution matters as much as total daily amount.