Is Your Pet a Healthy Weight? Why Body Score Matters More Than the Number on the Scales

Fit doesn’t mean skinny. Fluffy doesn’t mean healthy.

It’s a sensitive topic, but it needs saying: most dogs and cats in the UK are overweight or obese. And the truth is, you might not even realise your pet is carrying too much weight—because we’re surrounded by chunky animals and told they’re “normal.”

But the number one issue UK vets are seeing right now? Weight-related health problems.

Let’s break it down.

🎯 What Is Body Condition Score (BCS)?

BCS is a simple visual and hands-on check used by vets to judge how much body fat your pet is carrying. It doesn’t rely on scales alone—because like people, weight alone doesn’t show if they’re actually lean or not.

Most body scoring systems use a scale of 1 to 9:

• 1–3 = underweight

• 4–5 = ideal

• 6–9 = overweight to obese

🐾 How to Check Your Dog or Cat’s Body Score

Forget the scale for a minute. Instead, go by how they look and feel.

✅ At an ideal weight:

• Ribs are easily felt but not visible

• Waist is visible from above (they should curve in behind the ribs)

• Tummy tucks up when viewed from the side

• No rolls, bulges, or thick layer over ribs

• You can feel muscle tone, not just softness

⚠️ Signs of being overweight:

• Ribs are hard to feel or totally hidden

• No waist when viewed from above

• Belly hangs down or sags

• Fat pads at the base of the tail, neck, or behind front legs

• Shortness of breath during light activity

🐱 Important Note for Cat Owners

Cats don’t get “chubby” – they get at risk. Even a small amount of extra weight on a cat puts them at high risk of diabetes, arthritis, liver disease, and urinary issues. A cat should feel sleek and muscular – not squishy.

🩺 Why It Matters — Even a Few Extra Pounds Hurt

You might think, “It’s just a bit of extra fluff.” But even a small amount of excess weight increases risk of:

• Joint strain and arthritis

• Diabetes

• Breathing issues

• Skin fold infections

• Poor energy and reduced quality of life

• Shortened lifespan

Overweight pets age faster. Their organs work harder. Their joints wear out sooner.

💡 Why We Mistake Overweight for Normal

Because overweight is now common, people see a lean dog and think it’s “too thin.” The reality? We’ve normalised unhealthy.

Your dog isn’t “skinny” because you can see a waist and feel their ribs. That’s actually what a fit, well-conditioned dog should look like.

Same goes for cats. “Chunky” isn’t cute when it comes with a high risk of diabetes.

🛠️ What You Can Do Daily

• Feed a species-appropriate diet – high meat, no fillers

• Use food puzzles, slow feeders, or scatter feeding to reduce scoffing

• Keep treats minimal — or use part of their daily food as treats

• Weigh meals — don’t guess!

• Make sure enrichment doesn’t just mean food

• Prioritise movement, play, and rest – not endless walks

• Be mindful of “extras” — gravy bones, toast crusts, cheese, etc. all count

🔍 Still Not Sure?

Ask us for help. We can assess your dog or cat’s body condition by photo or help guide you to the right food, portions, and routine.

You don’t have to starve them. You don’t need to guilt yourself. But making changes now can add years to their life and comfort to their joints.

Final Thought

A lean dog isn’t underfed. A muscular cat isn’t “too thin.” Healthy pets are the ones that feel good, move freely, and don’t carry extra weight their body has to fight against.

Let’s stop normalising overweight — and start recognising what real health looks like.

👉 Need help adjusting food, choosing low-fat raw options, or working out the right daily routine? Send us a message — we’re here to help, not judge.