Introduction
When a beloved cat or dog starts to lose weight, shows reduced appetite, or is recuperating from illness, ensuring they get enough nutrition becomes a critical task. Regular food might not be enough - or appealing - in such situations. This is precisely where Under the Weather Ready Cal comes in: a high calorie pet supplement gel crafted to support weight gain, boost energy, and deliver vital nutrients in a compact and easy-to-administer form.
Key Features
Ready Cal is specially formulated by veterinarians to address the nutritional needs of pets that are not eating well due to stress, medical procedures, illness, or aging. It provides a concentrated source of calories in a gel format that can be fed directly or mixed into food. The dial-a-dose tube ensures you can give the right amount based on your pet’s weight.
Each serving is fortified with 10 vitamins and 7 minerals, giving your pet more than just calories - it’s a balanced nutrient supplement that helps support recovery, immune function, and overall wellness. Moreover, the gel contains essential fatty acids (omega-3 and omega-6) to promote healthy skin, heart, and joint health.
Its natural fish and malt flavor is highly palatable, making it easier to administer to finicky eaters. Because the formula is energy-dense, very little volume is needed to boost calorie intake, which is especially helpful for small or weak animals.
The ingredient profile includes malt syrup, soybean oil, corn syrup, cane molasses, and salmon oil as the calorie-dense base, along with vitamins like A, B-complex (thiamine, riboflavin, B6, B12), niacin, and minerals such as iron and manganese. These ingredients combine to deliver both quick energy and long-term nutritional support.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|
| High calorie density - gives energy in small servings | Not a full “meal replacement”; designed as a supplement |
| Comprehensive nutrition - 10 vitamins and 7 minerals | Syrupy gel may be messy if overused |
| Essential fatty acids for skin and heart health | High sugar content (syrups) - may not be ideal for all pets long-term |
| Palatable flavor (fish + malt) encourages acceptance | Requires precise dosing; risk of overfeeding if misjudged |
| Dial-a-dose tube for easy, accurate administration | Needs refrigeration after opening (depending on manufacturer instructions) |
Comparison Table
Here’s how Under the Weather Ready Cal stacks up against some other high-calorie pet supplements:
| Product | Form | Key Nutrients | Best For |
|---|
| Under the Weather Ready Cal | Gel | Vitamins, Minerals, Omega-3/6 | Pets recovering, underweight, low appetite |
| Tomlyn Nutri-Cal | Gel | Vitamins, Minerals, Omega-3/6/9 | Small pets, picky eaters needing rich calories |
| Hi-Cal Liquid | Liquid | Calories, minimal nutrients | Very high calorie needs or tube feeding |
How to Use / Dosage
To introduce Ready Cal, start by placing a small amount on your pet’s nose or tongue - this helps them get accustomed to the flavor. After they seem comfortable, you can follow the manufacturer’s dosing guidelines: generally 5 cc (1 teaspoon) per 10 pounds of body weight per day under normal conditions, or 10 cc (2 teaspoons) if the pet is eating very little.
Because it is a supplement, not a complete food, you should use it alongside a regular diet, not as a long-term sole food source, unless advised by a veterinarian.
Store the tube in a cool, dry place, and be careful to seal it properly. Follow any storage guidance on the package.
When to Use Ready Cal
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Illness or surgery recovery: When pets may not feel like eating their normal food.
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Older pets: As metabolism slows or appetite drops.
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Stress or anxiety: During times of stress when eating habits change.
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Weight maintenance: For pets prone to weight loss or needing extra calories.
Safety and Precautions
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Since it’s calorie‑dense, use the correct dose to avoid overfeeding.
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Use only as a supplement, not a replacement for a balanced diet.
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If your pet has medical conditions (e.g., diabetes), consult your vet before use.
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Introduce gradually to monitor tolerance.
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Make sure to keep the tube sealed properly and store as recommended.
FAQ
Q1: Is Ready Cal safe for both cats and dogs?
A1: Yes - Under the Weather produces versions of Ready Cal for both cats and dogs with similar nutritional profiles.
Q2: What makes Ready Cal different from regular pet food?
A2: It’s not a full pet food - instead, it’s a high calorie pet supplement that adds additional energy, vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids to your pet’s diet without requiring large volumes of food.
Q3: How long until I see results (weight gain or better appetite)?
A3: Many pet owners report improved appetite or more energy within a few days to a week, but consistent use (as per dosing instructions) is key for better results.
Q4: How do I give it if my pet is very picky?
A4: You can place the gel directly in the pet’s mouth or mix it into their wet food. The natural fish + malt flavor helps its acceptance.
Q5: Are there any artificial flavors or dyes?
A5: According to the manufacturer, Ready Cal is made without artificial flavors or dyes.
Q6: Can I use it long term?
A6: It is primarily designed for supplemental or intermittent use. Long-term use should be discussed with a veterinarian, especially if used as a large portion of daily calories.
Q7: What are the active ingredients?
A7: Key ingredients include malt syrup, soybean oil, corn syrup, cane molasses, salmon oil, plus a broad vitamin-mineral blend (vitamins A, B-complex, D, E; minerals like iron, manganese) and essential fatty acids.
Conclusion & Recommendation
If your cat or dog is struggling to eat, losing weight, or recovering from illness, Under the Weather Ready Cal is a highly recommended high calorie pet supplement. Its nutritionally rich formula - packed with 10 vitamins, 7 minerals, and essential omega fatty acids - supports recovery, boosts energy, and helps maintain or build healthy weight. The palatable fish and malt flavor makes it easier for even picky eaters to accept, and the dial-a-dose tube ensures accurate, stress-free feeding.
Overall, Ready Cal is an excellent choice for pet parents and veterinarians seeking a convenient, effective, and gentle way to support a pet’s nutritional needs during challenging times.
