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Scales can’t tell you whether a pet is fat or just big-boned — body condition can. Choose the description that best matches your dog or cat, and we’ll estimate their ideal weight and a safe rate of loss if needed.
How to check body condition
- Ribs: run your hands along the chest. You should feel ribs easily under a thin layer of fat, like the back of your hand.
- Waist: look down from above. There should be a visible waist behind the ribs.
- Tummy tuck: from the side, the belly should rise up toward the back legs.
The 9-point scale is used by veterinarians worldwide and is part of the WSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines. Each point above 5 is roughly 10% extra weight.
FAQ
How fast should a pet lose weight?
About 1–2% of body weight a week for dogs and no more than about 1% a week for cats. Faster loss in cats risks a serious liver condition (hepatic lipidosis).
What helps a pet lose weight?
Measuring every meal, cutting treats, slow feeders or lick mats to stretch mealtimes, and more activity. Start from the ideal weight in our calorie calculator.
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