Resources
Pet Care Questions Clear, Practical Answers
Find concise answers about PawSprouts tools, private tracker data, routine pet care, and when a veterinarian should take over.
Calculators & Tools
How accurate are the food calculators?
Our calculators use the Resting Energy Requirement (RER) formula, the same formula veterinary nutritionists use as a starting point. Results are estimates, not prescriptions. Always check your food's caloric-density label and consult your veterinarian for precise recommendations.
What is the Body Condition Score (BCS)?
BCS is a 1–9 scale veterinarians use to assess whether a pet is underweight, at an ideal weight, or overweight. It considers touch and visual appearance, not scale weight alone. A score of 4–5 out of 9 is generally considered ideal for most dogs and cats.
Is my tracker data stored anywhere?
Tracker data is stored locally in your browser. PawSprouts does not send it to a server. This keeps the data private to your device, but clearing browser data may also remove your records.
Can I use these tools for exotic pets?
No. PawSprouts tools are designed for dogs and cats. The formulas are not validated for rabbits, birds, reptiles, or other exotic animals, so an exotic-animal veterinarian is the right source for those pets.
Pet Health
When should I take my pet to the vet?
Puppies and kittens typically need several visits during their first year for examinations and vaccines. Healthy adult pets generally need an annual wellness exam, while senior pets may benefit from check-ups every six months. Contact a veterinarian promptly for sudden or concerning symptoms.
How do I know if my dog is overweight?
Use Body Condition Score as a starting point. At an ideal condition, a dog's ribs should be easy to feel without being prominent, and the waist should be visible from above. A veterinarian can confirm the score and recommend a safe plan.
What vaccinations does my pet need?
Core dog vaccines commonly include rabies and DHPP or DA2PP. Core cat vaccines commonly include rabies and FVRCP. Exact schedules and non-core vaccines vary by age, health, location, and lifestyle, so confirm the plan with your veterinarian.
PawSprouts Platform
Is PawSprouts free?
Yes. PawSprouts calculators, trackers, and pet-care guides are currently free to use.
Do I need to create an account?
No account is required. Tools work in your browser, and tracker data is saved locally on your device.
Does PawSprouts replace veterinary advice?
No. PawSprouts provides educational estimates and organizational tools. It cannot diagnose, treat, or replace a veterinarian who has examined your pet.