Checking Your Cat’s Weight
Checking your cat’s weight is important as it can help you understand the health status of your pet. As a cat owner, it is your responsibility to check their weight regularly and to take action if necessary. Managing your cat’s weight can not only help prevent obesity, but also help manage their mobility and prevent joint stiffness.
Here at Petmania, you can check your cat’s weight for free by using our weighing scales that are available in all 15 locations nationwide. We’ve put together a helpful guide on how you can use the in-store weighing scales, how to weigh your cat at home, and how to help you manage your beloved four legged friend’s weight, keeping them healthy and happy!
How To Use Petmania Weighing Scales
Checking your cat’s weight in-store couldn’t be easier. Check out the steps below on how you can avail of this free service.
- Firstly, turn on the weighing scales, and wait for it to set to 0.
- Gently pop your cat on the scales, and wait for a moment until their weight shows.
- And that’s it!
What If My Pet Doesn’t Stay Still?
Make sure your cat is on a harness so if they do decide to go exploring elsewhere, they won’t stray too far! We recommend you pop yourself on the weighing scales along with your cat so you can secure them, and make note of your combined weight. Then, set the scales to zero again by pressing the ‘tare’ button and weigh yourself only. Subtract the difference between the two weights and now you have the weight of your pet. You can also do this with your cat in a carrier or crate.
Why Is Weighing My Cat Important?
Your cat’s weight can be a great indicator of their health. If you find your pet is under or overweight, it is important to take them to the local vet so they can provide any necessary steps to get them to their ideal weight. Regular visits to the vet and weight logs can help your vet determine if your kitty is gaining or losing weight, as both can pose health issues for our furry friends.
How Often Should I Weigh My Cat?
If her BCS is in the ‘ideal’ category, a weight check every 3 months is advised.
If your cat is on a diet, you should track her weight alongside her BCS at least every 4 weeks.
Kittens and cats with medical conditions causing a decrease in appetite or water consumption should be weighed much more frequently, in order to detect any major changes quickly.
Weight Tracker Service
We offer a free weight-tracking and reminder service in-store for all dogs and cats. Register with us in-store and we will store your pet’s weight and BCS on their record, helping you to track their weight at every visit. We will also send you free reminders when your cat’s next weight check is due, helping you to keep your pet on the right track.
How Can I Check My Cat’s Weight at Home?
If you would like to check your cat’s weight at home, you can follow the method mentioned above by stepping on a scale, weighing yourself, and then weighing yourself while holding a cat. Alternatively, you can simply put your cat into something to keep them still; why not try a soft shopping bag or pillowcase? Some cats become very relaxed in this swaddled state, allowing you to get an accurate measurement of their weight.
You can also measure your cat’s weight via digital luggage scales. All you need to do is put the cat in the carrier and use the digital luggage scales to measure the total weight. Then, remove the cat and weigh the carrier on its own. Subtracting the lower figure from the higher figure will give you the weight of the cat.
What is Body Condition Score?
The Body Condition Score is a ranking scale form 1-9, with 1 being dangerously thin, and 9 being dangerously obese. The ideal score for your cat is 4-5. Cats with a score of 1-2 or above 7 should attend their vet immediately, as they may be at risk of serious health complications. If your cat is registering in these brackets, please do not attempt to adjust your pet’s diet or weight without veterinary supervision.
At all times, if your cat is showing any signs of distress, or experiences sudden weight loss or gain, please consult with your veterinarian.
Vet Carol Doyle has put together a helpful guide on how to check your cat’s BCS here.
