The best way to determine if your pet is overweight is to visit your veterinarian. Your vet can make the best decision on your pet’s weight and how to manage it. Here’s how to get a general idea about your pet’s weight.

If your pet is at his ideal weight, you should be able to feel his ribs easily without pressing, but you should not be able to see his ribs through his coat. If you can see your pet’s ribs through his coat, he is underweight. If you cannot feel his ribs with your fingers, your pet is overweight.

When you look at your pet from above, he should have a nice waist, right in front of his hips, in the shape of an hourglass. If your pet is too thin, you will be able to see his bones. When your pet has no waist, or if his sides are wider than his hips or ribs, your pet is overweight.

Next, check the base of your pet’s tail. There should be a small amount of fat, but should feel smooth. If you can feel the bones, your pet is too thin, if you can’t feel any bones, your pet is very overweight.

Your pet’s ideal weight will vary depending on its breed and size. If you are concerned about your pet’s weight, please contact your veterinarian.