Waking up every day to see those fluffy “little furballs” waddling back and forth is definitely adorable. But don’t forget to keep an eye on their body shape and weight to help prevent cat obesity!
1. What is cat obesity?
A cat is considered overweight when its body weight exceeds the ideal weight by 10–20%, and obese when it exceeds 20–30%.
Example:
- An adult British Shorthair typically weighs 4–6 kg
- If the cat weighs 7 kg → overweight
- Above 8 kg → at risk of obesity
Each cat breed has a different standard weight, but the most accurate way to determine a cat’s condition is by assessing the BCS.
2. Assessing the BCS (Body Condition Score) in cats
BCS (Body Condition Score) is a system used to assess body fat based on visual observation and physical palpation. The scale most commonly used ranges from 1 to 9, where:
- BCS 1–3: Underweight
- BCS 4–5: Well-balanced, ideal
- BCS 6–9: Overweight to obese
Ideal cat (BCS 5):
- Ribs can be felt easily but are not visibly prominent
- A defined waist when viewed from above
- A tucked abdomen when viewed from the side
Obese cat (BCS 8–9):
- Ribs cannot be felt
- No visible waist
- Sagging abdomen with excess fat around the belly and hips
- Round face with noticeable neck fat
Many cat owners misjudge their cat’s weight because of thick fur. Therefore, feeling the ribs is the most accurate way to assess a cat’s body condition.
3. Signs of cat obesity
1. No visible waist when viewed from above
The waist appears almost straight or rounded instead of narrowed.
2. Sagging lower abdomen
Many people confuse a cat’s natural primordial pouch with fat, but obese cats have a much thicker and heavier fat layer.
3. Ribs cannot be felt
If you gently press along the rib cage and cannot feel the ribs, the cat is overweight or obese.
4. Rapid breathing when climbing stairs
Obese cats breathe faster and tire easily during play.
5. Low activity level – sleeping more
Carrying excess weight reduces a cat’s desire and ability to move.
If your cat shows the signs above, start a conversation with AI Doctor for personalized advice based on your cat’s age, sex, breed, and medical history.
👉 Chat with AI Doctor here: https://www.pawhub.vn/en/ai-doctor