Is my pet overweight?

 

Want to know whether your pet is overweight? Here is a useful chart for you to gauge your pet's body condition based on their appearance

 

Very Thin

Body Score=1

Your pet's ribs, spine and pelvic bones are evident from a distance. Your pet has no discernable body fat and obvious loss of muscle mass.

 

Thin

Body Score=3

Your pet's ribs, spine and pelvic bones are noticable. Your pet's fat cannot be felt and has minimal loss of muscle mass.

 

Ideal

Body Score=5

Your pets ribs can be felt without an excess fat covering.  When viewed from above, the waist is behind the ribs. When viewed from the side, the abdomen is tucked up.

 

Overweight

Body Score=7

Your pet's ribs can only be felt with significant pressure due to a heavy fat cover. Heavy fat is deposited along the spine and at the base of the tail. Your pet's waist is absent and has a bulge instead of an abdominal tuck.

 

Obese

Body Score=9

Fat is deposited all around your pet's body. Heavy fats can be found at the thorax, spine, base of tail, neck, and limbs. The waist and abdominal tuck is absent and replaced with a saggy or bloated bulge.

 

 

If your pet falls under the category of body score 7-9, you should talk to your vet or pet nutrionist. They can prescribe a good fitness regime consisting of healthy diet and regular exercise. However, it is  ultimately up to YOU to exercise discipline in your pet's weight loss programme. It's never too late to try and get fit as every effort counts. Remember, a healthy pet is a happy pet that lives longer!