Cat Obesity | What It Means, Why It Happens and How to Help

Is your cat looking a little rounder lately? You’re not alone. Feline obesity is becoming increasingly common, with studies showing over 40% of cats are overweight. In this guide, we’ll explain the causes, signs, risks, and how to help your cat lose weight safely — with practical tips and links to weight management foods and health support products at The Vet Shed.

What Is Cat Obesity?

Cat obesity occurs when a cat has excessive body fat that affects its health. You might have seen a cat obesity chart or the popular “chonk scale” meme online, but in clinical terms, it’s defined as a cat being more than 20% over its ideal body weight.

Cat Body Condition Score (BCS) Chart

Body Condition	Score	What You Will Notice
Underweight	1–3	• Very tucked-in waist • Visibly bony – hips, ribs, and backbone can be seen • Very little body fat
Ideal Weight	4–5	• Obvious waist from the side and above • Ribs and backbone can be felt with a light touch but not seen • No fat deposits
Overweight	6–7	• No visible waist • Ribs can only be felt with pressure • Fat pockets around neck, hips, shoulders, base of tail
Obese	8–9	• No waist, sagging belly • Ribs cannot be felt • Difficulty moving or grooming

How do I know my cat's body condition score? → Most cat owners won’t be able to assign a precise BCS number on their own. However, you can use visual signs (waist shape, belly sag, visible ribs/spine) and touch (can you feel ribs easily?) to estimate where your cat falls on the scale. Your vet can provide an accurate score during a consult.

Should I weigh my cat or just use this chart? → The BCS chart focuses more on shape and feel than weight. Two cats can weigh the same but have different BCS scores depending on muscle vs. fat. Weighing helps track changes, but BCS is a better indicator of overall body condition.

Where should I look or feel to assess my cat? → Look from above and from the side: Waist should taper (ideal) Feel ribs with a flat hand — easily felt = ideal Check for fat pads: under belly, near shoulders, hips

Is this the same for male and female cats? → Yes — the scale applies to both male and female cats, although neutered cats often gain weight more easily due to hormonal changes.

What should I do if my cat is overweight or obese? → Consult your vet for a tailored feeding and exercise plan. Consider switching to a vet-recommended weight management food like Royal Canin Satiety or Hill’s Metabolic.

Can this score change over time? → Absolutely. BCS can improve or worsen depending on your cat’s diet, activity level, and medical conditions. Aim to reassess monthly and weigh your cat regularly.

What if my cat is fluffy — how do I tell? → Long-haired or fluffy cats are harder to assess visually. Use your hands — feel around the ribs, spine, and waist. If you’re unsure, your vet can check during a routine visit.

How often should I check my cat’s BCS? → Every 4–6 weeks is ideal, especially if your cat is on a weight-loss plan.