Cat condition score chart
The descriptions and images on this page are indicative only. You should consult your vet on the health of your cat.
Emaciated
An emaciated cat's condition is:
- individual ribs, spine and pelvis prominent and evident from a distance
- lack of muscle mass
- little or no body fat
- rump hollow
- waist prominent when viewed from above
- neck thin
- no flank fold (under belly)
- abdomen very tucked up.
Vet advice must be sought.
Thin
A thin cat's condition is:
- ribs, spine and pelvis bones visible and easily felt
- little body fat
- neck thin
- no flank fold (under belly)
- abdomen tucked up
- obvious waist when viewed from above.
Increase feeding and worm cat if not wormed recently (ensure all-wormer used — some products do not cover all worms).
Seek vet advice if cat remains underweight or unsure of feeding or worming regime.
Ideal condition cat
An ideal cat's condition is:
- ribs and spine can be felt
- last few ribs may be visible
- flank fold (under belly) may be visible from side
- cat should have a waist when viewed from top
- good muscle mass.
Overweight cat
A overweight cat's condition is:
- ribs and spine not visible but can be felt
- little or no waist when viewed from above, rounded appearance
- flank fold (under belly) clearly visible and will wobble when cat moves, belly and chest rounded
- large ventral fat pad covering hind legs.
Reduce feed intake or provide lower calorie food.
Consider options to increase exercise level of cat.
Obese cat
A obese cat's condition is:
- ribs and spine not visible and difficult to feel
- tail has obvious fat deposit
- no waist and back broadened when viewed from above
- flank fold (under belly) hangs down and will sway when cat moves, belly and chest very rounded.
Seek vet advice on diet and exercise regime.
Page last updated: 20 Feb 2024