How to Know if my Pet is Overweight

Luna, once an agile tabby who chased shadows, now spent her days sprawled by the AC, barely moving. Zara, the parent of Luna, thought the cat was just “well-fed.” But during a vet visit, the scale said otherwise — Luna was 30% over her ideal weight. Like many owners, Zara hadn’t noticed the subtle changes: fewer zoomies, more panting, extra belly fat. The truth is, most pet parents miss the early signs of weight gain. And by the time they realize it, health problems may already be in motion.

Recognizing Subtle Signs of an Overweight Pet

The most common mistake pet owners make is assuming roundness equals cuteness. In reality, an overweight pet may show small but serious signs: reduced mobility, reluctance to exercise, difficulty grooming, visible panting during mild activity, and even behavioral changes. A body condition score (BCS) —a vet-approved 9-point scale— can help you assess fat coverage on ribs, waist visibility, and abdominal tuck. For instance, on the BCS scale, a score of 5 is ideal, 6-7 is overweight, and 8-9 is obese. 

You don’t need a vet visit to check ribs. If you can’t feel them without pressing, your pet is likely overweight. Also, check for a sagging belly or fat pads around the tail base and shoulders.

Health Risks of Pet Obesity

Obesity in pets isn’t just a cosmetic issue — it’s a serious medical problem. It doesn’t just slow your pet down — it shortens their life.

Overweight pets are more likely to develop arthritis, heart disease, insulin resistance, diabetes, and even certain cancers. In cats, obesity is the #1 risk factor for hepatic lipidosis, a life-threatening liver condition. Small animals like rabbits and guinea pigs suffer from pododermatitis (sore hocks) and struggle with grooming when overweight.

Causes of Pet Obesity That Often Go Unnoticed

Portion control is often ignored, especially in multi-pet households. Feeding “by eye” leads to consistent overfeeding. Table scraps and calorie-dense treats add hidden fat — just 30 grams of cheese can equal over 100 calories for a 10-kg dog. Lack of exercise, neutering without dietary adjustments, and age-related slowing also contribute to weight gain.

Many small pets — like hamsters or budgies — suffer from the same problem in cages with limited stimulation or overfilled food bowls. Monitoring calorie intake, using food puzzles, and scheduled playtime can reverse this trend.

When to See a Vet and What to Expect

If your pet shows any signs of weight gain, book a vet visit before it escalates. Vets will assess body condition score, muscle mass, and may conduct lab tests to rule out thyroid or metabolic disorders.

Many practices now offer pet weight loss clinics, which include custom diet plans, regular weigh-ins, and fitness sessions. Royal Canin and Hill’s offer veterinary prescription diets designed to reduce weight without sacrificing nutrition.

The key isn’t to cut food dramatically but to adjust caloric density and add physical activity tailored to your pet’s breed and age.

Let’s Wrap it Up!

No pet becomes overweight overnight, and neither does weight loss happen instantly. But spotting obesity in pets early can add years to their life.

If you’re still asking how to know if my pet is overweight, start with a hands-on check, adjust the feeding plan, and consult a vet. Data shows that proactive care can turn things around fast. Your pet won’t say it out loud — but their joints, heart, and energy levels will thank you.