Reviewed by Dr Katie DavisonBVMS MRCVS - RCVS Recognised Advanced Veterinarian
Carrying extra weight is one of the most common - and most fixable - health problems we see in pets. It creeps up so gradually that it's genuinely hard to notice on your own pet, and a lot of owners are surprised when we mention it.
It matters more than looks: excess weight takes years off a pet's life and makes conditions like arthritis and diabetes far more likely. The good news is it's very treatable, and small changes make a big difference.
How to tell at home
You don't need scales to do a quick body check. On an ideal-weight pet you should be able to:
- Feel their ribs easily through a thin layer of fat, without pressing hard
- See a 'waist' tuck in behind the ribs when you look from above
- See the belly tuck up (rather than hang down) from the side
- If ribs are hard to find and there's no waist, they're likely carrying extra weight
Why it's worth acting on
Extra weight isn't just cosmetic. It's strongly linked to arthritis (more load on sore joints), diabetes - especially in cats - heart and breathing strain, and a shorter life overall. Lean pets consistently live longer, more comfortable lives.
The flip side is encouraging: losing even a modest amount of weight can visibly improve a pet's mobility, energy and mood, and reduce the medication some conditions need.
How we help - safely
Crash diets are risky, particularly for cats, so weight loss needs to be gradual and monitored. Our vet nurses run weight-management clinics that take the guesswork out of it: a target weight, the right amount of the right food (measured, not guessed), practical tips on treats and exercise, and regular weigh-ins to keep things on track. It's a supportive, judgement-free process - and seeing the numbers move is genuinely motivating.
Getting started
If you're not sure whether your pet is a healthy weight, just ask - a quick body-condition check is part of every visit, or book a nurse weight consult on 07 870 2696. It's one of the highest-value things you can do for your pet's long-term health.