09/12/2025
Is your pet obese?
*Pets with obesity are at increased risk for developing serious weight-related disorders such as diabetes, arthritis, high blood pressure, kidney disease, cancer, and more.
*Please use the tools below to check your pet’s Body Condition Score. If it leans on the overweight side, reach out to get a proper weight loss treatment plan with your vet!
1. Feel your pet’s body. You should easily feel and count your pet’s ribs when you gently run your fingers along their side. A healthy-weight pet will have a thin layer of fat over the ribs and spine that you can feel but not see. If you feel a thick layer of fat, your pet may be overweight.
2. Look at your pet from above. Stand over your pet and observe its body. Your pet should have a visible waist behind the ribs that tapers slightly towards the hips with a slight indentation near the midsection. If your pet does not have a visible waist or has a bulging waist, it may be overweight.
3. Look at your pet from the side. Stand next to your pet and examine its profile as it stands naturally. You should see a slight tuck or upward slope in the tummy area. If the abdomen hangs low and appears bulging or sagging, it could indicate the presence of abdominal fat, which is the most dangerous and biologically active form of fat.
4. Check your pet’s weight. Regularly weigh your pet and track its weight over time. This practice can help you and your veterinary team monitor your pet’s weight and determine if any adjustments are needed in their lifestyle, diet, or exercise routine.
