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How to Manage Your Pet's Weight

General information on managing your pet's weight -- not a substitute for veterinary advice.

  1. Check body shape using Body Condition Score (BCS)

    Gently press along the ribs: if you can faintly feel the ribs, your pet is likely at a healthy weight; if you can barely feel them, they may be overweight; and if the ribs are prominent, they may be underweight. Whether there's a visible waist narrowing when viewed from above is another useful way to judge body condition.

  2. The basics of calculating proper feeding amounts

    The feeding amount printed on a food package is just a general guideline based on weight, so actual calorie needs can vary based on your pet's activity level, age, and whether they're spayed or neutered. After setting a feeding amount, it's important to regularly check weight and body condition and adjust as needed.

  3. Managing treats as a share of daily calories

    It's generally recommended to keep treats to under 10% of total daily calorie intake, reducing the main meal accordingly to balance overall calories. Frequently offering human food as treats is one of the more common causes of pet obesity.

  4. How obesity affects health

    Obesity is known to increase strain on the joints and raise the risk of arthritis, place added stress on the heart and respiratory system, and raise the risk of metabolic conditions like diabetes. Weight management is a key factor that directly affects lifespan and quality of life.

  5. Regular weighing and record-keeping

    Weighing your pet about once a month, using a home scale or at the vet, and keeping a record makes it easier to catch gradual weight changes early.

  6. A note of caution

    This is general care guidance and not a substitute for a veterinary diagnosis. If you notice sudden weight changes or unusual appetite, it's best to consult a veterinarian to rule out an underlying condition before starting a diet plan.

Managing Weight Is Managing Lifespan

Maintaining a healthy weight affects joints, heart, and metabolic health overall, so it's worth building a habit of checking body condition by feel rather than relying on appearance alone.

General information, not veterinary advice

This page offers general, practical guidance on weight management and is not a substitute for a professional veterinary evaluation. Before starting any diet plan, it's best to consult a veterinarian, especially if your pet has an existing health condition or shows sudden weight or appetite changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does spaying or neutering make pets more likely to gain weight?

Metabolism tends to slow down somewhat after spaying or neutering, so pets can gain weight more easily even on the same amount of food. It's a good idea to slightly reduce portions or switch to a lower-calorie food afterward.

Will switching to a diet food produce results right away?

Weight loss is safest when it happens gradually -- a rapid diet can actually be harmful to health. It's best to set a target weight and timeline together with a veterinarian.