Body condition assessment system
This calculation tool is for use by a veterinarian.

It is intended to assist the veterinarian in assessing the body condition of his dog or cat patient by assigning them a number ranging from 1 to 9. In this system the number 1 means animal in extreme caquexia condition and number 9, extreme obesity.

The weight of the animal alone is not enough to tell of its body condition. In addition to the fact that weight varies with body height and constitution, it may also be increased or decreased in the patient as a result of varying amounts of fat, muscle, or body fluid accumulated to a greater or lesser extent.

The veterinarian should carefully choose a description that best fits the patient. Error in filling will cause error in the final result. For this reason, we recommend that the veterinarian thoroughly assess the final result presented by the system and redo the steps if appropriate.

Finally, we remind you that the final result presented is an estimate that can present considerable variation between individuals. Only the veterinarian is responsible for the final categorization. We recommend reading the terms of use of the site you agree to when browsing the site. .

Animals with Body Condition Scores other than 4 or 5 for dogs or different from 5 for cats deserve clinical evaluation from the veterinarian. We point out that obesity in dogs and cats causes various health problems and that extensive scientific work, already published, related obesity to their shorter life expectancy.

This tool is based primarily on the following scientific publications and the experience of Prof. Dr. Aulus Carciofi: Laflamme DP, Hume E, Harrison J. Evaluation of zoometric measures as an assessment of body composition of dogs and cats. Compendium on Continuing Education for the Veterinary Practice 2001; 23 (Suppl. 9A): 88. Laflamme DP. Development and Validation of a Body Condition Score System for Cats: A Clinical Tool. Feline Practice 1997; 25: 13-17 .