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Cat BMI Calculator

Calculate your cat's body condition score based on weight and measurements

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๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ฐ All calculations are based on Danish rules, rates, and currency (DKK). This calculator is translated for convenience but applies exclusively to Denmark.

Cat BMI and Body Condition Score

Our calculator estimates your cat's Body Condition Score (BCS) on a scale from 1 to 9, based on weight and body measurements. BCS is the most widely used method for assessing a cat's body condition among veterinarians.

What is BCS?

Body Condition Score is a scale from 1-9, where 1 is severely underweight, 5 is ideal weight, and 9 is severely overweight. A BCS of 4-5 is considered optimal. The assessment considers fat cover, muscle mass and body shape. The calculator provides an estimate โ€“ a vet can make a more precise assessment through physical examination.

How to measure your cat

Chest circumference is measured with a soft tape measure around the widest part of the chest, just behind the front legs. Leg length is measured from the shoulder joint down to the paw. The cat should be standing during measurement. The measurements are used to calculate an approximate FBMI (Feline Body Mass Index).

What does the assessment mean?

Assessment 1 = underweight (BCS 1-3), assessment 2 = ideal (BCS 4-5), assessment 3 = overweight (BCS 6-7), assessment 4 = severely overweight (BCS 8-9). If your cat scores below 4 or above 5, consult your vet about a diet plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a good BCS score for a cat?

An ideal BCS score for a cat is 4-5 on a scale of 1-9. At BCS 5, you can feel the ribs with a thin fat layer, the waist is visible from above, and the abdomen is slightly tucked when viewed from the side. If your cat scores 6 or higher, it's overweight.

How does FBMI differ from BCS?

FBMI (Feline Body Mass Index) is a numerical calculation based on measurements like chest circumference and leg length, while BCS is a visual and tactile assessment on a 1-9 scale. FBMI provides an objective number, while BCS requires experience to assess correctly. Our calculator uses FBMI measurements to estimate BCS.

What should I do if my cat is overweight?

Contact your vet for an assessment and a tailored diet plan. Never drastically reduce food amounts on your own, as this can lead to fatty liver disease (hepatic lipidosis), which is life-threatening for cats. A gradual reduction of 10-15% of daily calories is typically recommended.

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