1

Emaciated
Ribs, spinal vertebrae, pelvic bones and all bony structures evident from a distance. Ribs especially obvious on short haired cats. No discernible body fat. Accentuated, severe hourglass shape to waist. Obvious loss of muscle mass.

2

Underweight
Ribs easily felt with little fat cover and may be visible. Tops of spinal vertebrae visible. Pelvic bones becoming prominent. Obvious waist and abdominal tuck. Minimal abdominal fat. Marked hourglass shape to waist.
 

3

Ideal
Ribs, spinal vertebrae, pelvic bones and other bony structures easily felt, with minimal fat covering. Waist easily noted, viewed from above. Abdomen tucked up when viewed from the side. Smooth hourglass shape to waist. Abdominal fat pad minimal.

4

Overweight
Ribs are difficult to feel. Noticeable fat deposits over spinal area and base of tail. Waist is discernible, viewed from above but is not prominent, may be barely visible or absent. Abdominal tuck may be absent. Loss of hourglass shape to waist with back slightly broadened. Moderate abdominal fat pad.

5

Obese
Ribs are difficult to impossible to feel under very heavy fat cover, or felt only with significant pressure. Heavy fat deposits over spinal area, base of tail, chest, face and limbs. Waist absent. No abdominal tuck. Abdomen is distended with extensive fat deposits. Back is markedly broadened.

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