Given the love you have for your feline friend, you're likely to spot any problems early on — but here are a few body conditioning pointers to keep in mind.
If your cat has short hair, you'll be able to see its ribs, and when you look from above, you'll notice a distinct hollow at the waist. If your cat has a fluffy coat, you won't be able to spot these changes so easily, so give it a cuddle and feel if its ribs, backbone and hip bones are too prominent.
Until your cat gains weight, make sure food is always available. If your cat is really thin, there may be an underlying medical condition, so we recommend a vet check up.
You'll see the ribs and they'll be easy to feel under a small covering of fat. The waist will also be obvious when looking from above.
Feed your cat a little more at each meal so it can gain enough weight to improve its condition.
Your cat will have a thin layer of fat covering its ribs. You'll be able to feel them, but they won't be prominent. Its waist will be well defined from above.
Well done. Your cat is in great condition, so keep feeding just the way you are.
You won't be able to see your cat's ribs, but you may still be able to feel them. And your cat's waist won't be visible from above.
To be healthy, your cat needs to lose some weight. Reduce food, but do it gradually. You'll find more information about how to develop a healthy weight loss plan in our 'Healthy weight management' section.
Your cat is likely to be obese if it's rounded from above and the ribs and backbone can no longer easily be felt.
A weight loss plan is strongly recommended and a trip to the vet is a good idea too. Since your cat is carrying extra weight, it may have underlying health issues that a vet can help you with.