🌾 Dry Matter Calculator
Remove moisture from the equation to compare nutrient profiles across wet, dry, and raw foods.
How to Use This Calculator
Read the label
Gather moisture percentage and the nutrient you want to compare (protein, fat, fiber, etc.).
Enter as-fed values
Input the data from the guaranteed analysis on the pet food label.
Compare foods
Use dry-matter percentages to make apples-to-apples comparisons between wet and dry diets.
Formula
Dry Matter (%) = 100 − Moisture (%)
Nutrient (DM%) = [Nutrient (as-fed) ÷ Dry Matter] × 100
Moisture dilutes nutrient concentrations. Converting to dry matter reveals the true nutrient density of the food.
Full Description
Dry-matter comparisons are essential when selecting pet foods, especially for pets with kidney disease, weight concerns, or specific macro requirements. Use dry matter to evaluate protein, fat, fiber, and carbohydrate levels accurately.
Remember that guaranteed analysis values can vary ±1–2%. Consider laboratory testing or consult a veterinary nutritionist for precise feeding plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why compare on a dry-matter basis?
Water content varies widely. Dry matter normalizes values so you can compare nutrient density fairly.
Which nutrients should I convert?
Protein, fat, fiber, ash, and carbohydrates are commonly compared using dry matter.
Do raw diets require conversion?
Yes—raw foods are high in moisture. Converting shows actual nutrient concentration.
Can moisture exceed 80%?
Yes. Canned foods often contain 75–82% moisture. Verify values on the label.