A pet's weight alone does not tell the whole story. Body-condition scoring looks at fat cover and body shape. On many healthy dogs and cats, you should be able to feel the ribs beneath a light covering of fat without pressing hard. From above, a waist should be visible behind the ribs, and from the side there is usually an abdominal tuck. Breed, coat, age and muscle condition can change what you see, so compare carefully and ask a veterinary professional to demonstrate the check.
Sudden weight gain or loss deserves attention. Avoid crash diets, skipping meals or copying another pet's feeding quantity; calorie needs differ with size, health, activity and reproductive status. Measure meals rather than pouring by eye, count treats as part of the daily food, and monitor the body shape monthly. A slow, supervised plan is safer than trying to change weight quickly.
JOIN THE DISCUSSION Try the check today: A) ribs easy to feel, B) ribs difficult to feel, or C) ribs very prominent. What surprised you? Learn practical feeding and pet-care guidance with M-Health. Dial *20790*1*1#.
