Cat Obesity Identification Guide: Does Your Cat Really Need to Lose Weight?

1. What Kind of Fat Are We Talking About?

When we talk about obesity in humans, we often refer to “pear-shaped” and “apple-shaped” body types—basically, where the fat is stored.

But what about cats?

For overweight cats, fat tends to accumulate around the torso, particularly in the belly area, rather than in the limbs. This makes them “apple-shaped.”

So, when determining if your cat is overweight, the focus should be on their torso.

 

2. How to Tell If Your Cat Is Overweight?

Since a cat’s ideal weight depends on factors like breed and body length, weight alone isn’t the best way to judge whether they’re in good shape. Instead, we use the Body Condition Score (BCS) developed by the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA).

Before diving into a detailed assessment, start with these two simple questions:

1. Can you easily feel your cat’s ribs? If you have to press firmly to find them, their BCS is likely above 5.

2. Can you see a visible waistline when looking from above? If not, their BCS is probably over 5.

If your cat meets either of these criteria, it’s time for a closer look at their body shape.

 

BCS Scale: Which One Matches Your Cat?

1-2: Skin and Bones

• Seen from above, the waistline is very noticeable. The spine and hip bones stick out, creating a distinct hourglass shape.

• From the side, the body forms a steep triangle, with sharp angles at the belly

• When you run your hands along their back, the bones feel very pronounced, with almost no fat covering them.

This is uncommon in house cats but frequently seen in strays.

3-4: Slim and Slender

• The waistline is still visible, though not as dramatic. Hip bones may slightly protrude.

• From the side, the belly tucks in, but ribs are not clearly visible—only slightly noticeable when touched.

• Some fat is present on the back, but it’s minimal.

Besides stray cats, some underfed house cats might also fall into this category.

5: The Ideal Catwalk Model

• No extreme waistline, but the body maintains a balanced oval shape.

• The belly is firm, with a very slight fat layer—no hanging pouch.

• The ribs aren’t visible, but you can feel them easily with a light touch.

This is considered the perfect feline physique!

6-7: Getting a Bit Round

• From above, the body starts resembling a torpedo—wider in the middle.

• The belly has some noticeable sagging, especially when the cat moves.

• You need to press a little harder to feel the ribs.

At this stage, a diet plan should be considered.

8-9: Full-On Fluffball

• The body looks wide and round, like a furry football.

• The belly hangs low and wobbles noticeably when walking.

• The ribs and even the tailbone are hard to feel.

• Grooming becomes difficult, and fur may appear greasy or flaky.

If your cat falls in this range, it’s definitely time to take action!

 

3. Helping Your Cat Lose Weight (Without a Protest)

When it comes to feline weight loss, the real challenge is not the cat’s willpower—it’s the owner’s.

Before starting a diet plan, it’s best to visit the vet to rule out any underlying health issues. If your cat is cleared for weight loss, here’s what you need to do:

Calorie Control: The Golden Rule

The key to weight loss is managing calorie intake, and one of the best methods is Intermittent Caloric Restriction (ICR):

ICR Formula:

• Feed 75% of the cat’s maintenance calorie requirement (MER) for two weeks.

• Then, return to 100% of MER for the next two weeks.

• Repeat this cycle for six months.

For example, let’s say your cat weighs 6.5 kg (14.3 lbs), and the recommended daily food intake is 100g.

• With a steady calorie restriction diet (CCR), you could simply feed 75g per day for a similar weight loss effect.

However, the hardest part isn’t measuring food—it’s resisting those pleading eyes when your cat asks for more!

💡 Pro tip:

• No extra treats “just because it’s cold.”

• No adding an extra wet food pouch out of guilt.

• No rewarding your cat with an entire stick of treats just for brushing their teeth!

That’s how the calories sneak in!

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Exercise: More Than Just a Laser Pointer
Besides cutting calories, movement is essential.

Start small: Play with your cat 10 minutes longer per day using engaging cat toys to keep them active and entertained.

Make mealtime active: Encourage movement by placing food in different areas, like inside a cat tunnel or box, so your cat has to explore and "hunt" for their meal.

For outdoor adventures, consider using a cat stroller to take your feline friend outside safely while keeping them engaged with new sights and smells.

If you’re consistent, your cat can lose weight gradually and stay healthy—without tantrums!

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Final Thoughts

While a chubby cat may be cute, excess weight can cause serious health problems, especially for older cats or those prone to urinary issues.

So, as tempting as it is to let your feline friend enjoy the cozy season with extra snacks, keeping them at a healthy weight is the best gift you can give them.

After all, a fit cat is a happy cat! 🐾✨

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