Cat body condition score check
Is my cat overweight? Vets use a body condition score from 1 to 9 instead of the scale alone. Answer three quick questions with your hands on your cat to get their score and an ideal cat weight estimate.
Free health check · Based on vet sources
Cat weight chart by body condition score
| Score | What it means | What you’ll notice |
|---|---|---|
| 1–3 | Underweight | Ribs, spine and hip bones easy to see; no fat |
| 4–5 | Ideal | Ribs easy to feel under a thin fat layer; clear waist |
| 6–7 | Overweight | Ribs hard to feel; little waist; rounded belly |
| 8–9 | Obese | Can’t feel ribs; no waist; large hanging belly |
Based on the WSAVA 9-point body condition scale. Every point above 5 is roughly 10% over ideal weight.
What to do next
If your cat scores 6 or higher, ask your vet for a weight-loss plan, then use the cat calorie calculator with the ideal weight. Cats must lose weight slowly: crash diets can cause serious liver disease. Sudden weight loss without dieting is a reason to see a vet, and a score of 3 or lower needs a checkup too.
Is my cat overweight?
If you can’t easily feel your cat’s ribs, can’t see a waist from above, and there’s a rounded or swaying belly, your cat is probably overweight. A body condition score of 6 or more out of 9 means overweight.
What is an ideal cat weight?
There isn’t one number, because frame size varies by cat. Most domestic cats are ideal around 8 to 11 lb (3.6 to 5 kg), but the body condition score is a better guide than the scale.
More free tools
Quality of life scale
A gentle, structured way to think about an ill or elderly cat’s wellbeing.
Vet cost estimator
Estimate a cat vet bill for visits, tests, dental work and surgery.
Cost of owning a cat
Budget the first year and every year after: food, litter, vet care and more.