How to check your cat's weight at home

Monitoring your cat's weight is essential for ensuring they maintain a healthy lifestyle and to detect any potential health issues early on. Here's a detailed guide on how to check your cat's weight at home:

Weighing Your Cat

• Using a Home Scale:

  • First, weigh yourself alone and note down the weight.
  • Next, pick up your cat and step onto the scale.
  • Subtract your weight from the combined weight to get your cat's weight.
• Using a Pet or Baby Scale: These are more accurate for smaller weights and can be purchased online or at pet stores.

Body Condition Scoring (BCS)

Even without a scale, you can assess your cat's weight by checking their body condition.

• Ribs: You should be able to feel your cat's ribs with a slight fat covering, but they shouldn't be visible.
• Waist: When viewed from above, cats should have a visible waist behind their ribs.
• Belly: From the side, the belly shouldn't sag. A slight tuck is ideal.

Monitor Weight Changes

• Consistency: Weigh your cat at the same time of day, preferably before feeding.
• Frequency: For adult cats, once a month is sufficient. For kittens or cats with health issues, more frequent checks might be necessary.
• Record Keeping: Maintain a log of your cat's weight to track any changes over time.

Factors Affecting Weight

• Age: Kittens and young cats will naturally gain weight as they grow. Senior cats might lose weight due to muscle loss or health issues.
• Diet: Overfeeding, giving too many treats, or feeding low-quality food can lead to weight gain.
• Activity Level: Indoor cats or less active cats are more prone to weight gain compared to active ones.

Signs of Weight Issues

• Rapid Weight Gain: This can be a sign of overfeeding, lack of exercise, or certain medical conditions like hypothyroidism.
• Rapid Weight Loss: This can indicate various health issues, including diabetes, hyperthyroidism, dental problems, or other diseases.

Tips

• Dietary Control: Ensure you're feeding your cat the recommended amount of a balanced diet. Consult with your vet about the best food options.
• Exercise: Encourage play and activity. Toys, laser pointers, and interactive games can help.
• Treats: Limit treats and ensure they're not contributing to a significant portion of your cat's daily caloric intake.
• Consultation: If you notice sudden or significant weight changes, or if you're unsure about your cat's weight, consult with a veterinarian.

Regularly monitoring your cat's weight and body condition can help you make necessary adjustments to their diet and lifestyle, ensuring they remain healthy and active. Always combine this with regular veterinary check-ups for a comprehensive understanding of your cat's health.