Feline BSA Formula:
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Definition: This calculator estimates a cat's body surface area (BSA) based on its weight using a species-specific formula.
Purpose: It helps veterinarians determine accurate medication dosages and assess nutritional requirements for feline patients.
The calculator uses the feline-specific formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula accounts for the non-linear relationship between weight and surface area in cats.
Details: Accurate BSA estimation is crucial for proper dosing of chemotherapy drugs, anesthetics, and other medications that are dosed by surface area.
Tips: Enter the cat's weight in kilograms. The weight must be > 0. For best accuracy, weigh the cat immediately before calculation.
Q1: Why use BSA instead of weight for dosing?
A: Many drugs' effects correlate better with metabolic rate, which relates more closely to surface area than weight.
Q2: How do I convert pounds to kilograms?
A: Divide pounds by 2.205 (1 kg = 2.205 lbs). Our calculator requires weight in kg.
Q3: Is this formula specific to cats?
A: Yes, this is the feline-specific formula. Dogs and humans have different BSA formulas.
Q4: What's the typical BSA range for cats?
A: Most domestic cats have BSA between 0.1-0.3 m², but this varies with size and breed.
Q5: When would a vet use this calculation?
A: Primarily for chemotherapy, some anesthetics, and nutritional support calculations.