Cat BMI Calculator – Guide & Formulas
Calculate your cat's Body Mass Index and body condition score. Determine if your cat is underweight, ideal, overweight, or obese with our free feline health tool.
Try the free calculator
Put these formulas into practice with our instant, step-by-step Cat BMI Calculator.
Calculate your cat's Body Mass Index and body condition score. Our free feline health tool determines if your cat is underweight, ideal weight, overweight, or obese.
Key Takeaway
Use the free Cat BMI Calculator to calculate your cat's body mass index and body condition score. determine if your cat is underweight, ideal, overweight, or obese with our free feline health tool. Get instant results with step-by-step explanations.
How to Use the Cat BMI Calculator
- Enter your cat's weight in pounds or kilograms.
- Input your cat's body length from chest to tail base.
- Review your cat's BMI score and body condition classification.
- Check the ideal weight range and recommendations for your cat.
The Formula
Variable Definitions
- Weight: Your cat's current body weight in pounds or kilograms
- Body Length: Distance from the front of the chest to the base of the tail in inches
- BMI: Body Mass Index, a ratio of weight to body size used to classify weight status
- BCS: Body Condition Score, a 1—9 scale assessing fat coverage and muscle mass
Calculating BMI for a 10 lb Domestic Shorthair
Find the BMI and body condition for a 10-pound cat with a 18-inch body length.
- Step 1: Identify measurements: Weight = 10 lbs, Body Length = 18 inches.
- Step 2: Square the body length: 18² = 324.
- Step 3: Divide weight by squared length: 10 / 324 = 0.0309.
- Step 4: Multiply by 703: 0.0309 × 703 = 21.7.
- Step 5: A BMI of 21.7 for this cat suggests the cat is in the ideal weight category. Ideal BMI for cats is typically 18—24 depending on breed.
Financial Advisory Notice
This Cat BMI Calculator provides estimates based on general feline body metrics. Body Condition Score assessment should be performed by a veterinarian for accuracy. Individual cats have different ideal weights based on breed, age, and body structure. Consult your vet for personalized weight management advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a cat BMI calculator?
A cat BMI calculator estimates your cat's body mass index using a formula that factors in weight and body length to determine if your cat is underweight, ideal, overweight, or obese.
What is the feline body condition score (BCS)?
The feline body condition score is a numerical rating system (typically 1-9 or 1-5) used by veterinarians to assess whether a cat is underweight, at an ideal weight, overweight, or obese based on physical examination.
How is cat BMI different from human BMI?
Cat BMI uses a modified formula adapted for feline anatomy: weight in grams divided by the square of body length in centimeters, multiplied by 1000, whereas human BMI uses weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared.
What is the cat BMI formula?
The standard cat BMI formula is: BMI = (weight in grams) / (body length in cm)^2 A- 1000. This provides a numerical score that can be compared against established ranges.
What does a cat BMI chart show?
A cat BMI chart displays ranges of body mass index values that correspond to different weight categories including underweight, ideal weight, overweight, and obese classifications for cats.
What is considered a healthy cat weight range?
A healthy cat weight range varies by breed but generally falls between 8-10 pounds for domestic shorthairs, with most cats maintaining ideal health between 8-12 pounds depending on size and frame.
What is the cat ideal weight for my breed?
The cat ideal weight depends on breed, with Siamese cats typically 8-12 lbs, Maine Coons 10-25 lbs, Persians 7-12 lbs, and domestic shorthairs averaging 8-10 lbs.
What does it mean if my cat is obese?
A cat is considered obese when it exceeds its ideal body weight by 20% or more, which corresponds to a BCS of 8-9 on the 9-point scale or a BMI significantly above the ideal range.
What is the cat weight calculator used for?
A cat weight calculator helps pet owners and veterinarians determine whether a cat's weight is healthy by analyzing weight relative to body size, breed, and age.
What is the cat obesity calculator?
A cat obesity calculator assesses whether a cat has excess body fat by comparing its current weight against ideal weight benchmarks and body condition indicators.
What is feline obesity?
Feline obesity is a metabolic disorder where a cat carries excessive body fat, defined as weighing 20% or more above ideal body weight, affecting approximately 60% of domestic cats.
What factors affect a cat's BMI?
A cat's BMI is influenced by breed, age, sex, body frame size, muscle mass, and overall health condition, making breed-specific assessments more accurate than universal standards.
What is the difference between overweight and obese cats?
An overweight cat is 10-20% above ideal weight, while an obese cat exceeds ideal weight by more than 20%, with obesity carrying significantly higher health risks.
What does a low cat BMI indicate?
A low cat BMI suggests the cat may be underweight, which could indicate malnutrition, parasites, illness, dental problems, or insufficient caloric intake requiring veterinary attention.
What is the role of body fat percentage in cat BMI?
Body fat percentage directly influences cat BMI, with ideal cats typically having 15-25% body fat, overweight cats 25-35%, and obese cats exceeding 35% body fat.
How do I calculate my cat's BMI?
Weigh your cat in grams, measure the body length from the base of the skull to the base of the tail in centimeters, then use the formula: BMI = weight(g) / length(cm)^2 A- 1000.
How do I measure my cat's body length for BMI?
Place your cat on a flat surface, measure from the base of the skull (where the skull meets the neck) to the base of the tail (where the tail meets the spine) using a flexible measuring tape.
How do I use the cat BMI calculator online?
Enter your cat's weight in pounds or kilograms, input the body length in inches or centimeters, select the breed if available, and the calculator will generate the BMI score and weight category.
How do I assess my cat's body condition score at home?
Run your hands along your cat's sides�?"you should feel ribs without excess fat covering, see a visible waist when viewed from above, and observe a tucked abdomen from the side.
How often should I weigh my cat?
Weigh your cat monthly for adults, weekly for kittens, and more frequently for seniors or cats with health conditions to track weight trends and catch changes early.
How do I weigh an uncooperative cat at home?
Weigh yourself holding the cat, then weigh yourself alone, subtract the difference to get the cat's weight, or use a baby scale for smaller cats.
How do I interpret my cat's BMI results?
Compare the calculated BMI against breed-specific ranges�?"generally, a BMI of 1.6-2.5 is underweight, 2.5-3.5 is ideal, 3.5-4.5 is overweight, and above 4.5 is obese.
How do I use a cat weight chart?
Find your cat's breed and age on the chart, locate the ideal weight range, and compare your cat's current weight to determine if they are underweight, ideal, overweight, or obese.
How do I measure my cat's weight accurately?
Use a digital pet scale or baby scale, ensure the cat is dry and not wearing a collar, weigh at the same time of day consistently, and take multiple readings for accuracy.
How do I track my cat's weight over time?
Record weights in a spreadsheet or pet health app, noting date, weight, and any diet or health changes, to identify trends that may require veterinary intervention.
How do I calculate BMI for a kitten?
Kitten BMI calculations use the same formula but should be compared against age-appropriate weight milestones rather than adult breed standards, as kittens grow rapidly.
How do I calculate BMI for a large breed cat?
For large breeds like Maine Coons, use breed-specific BMI charts since their naturally larger frame and muscle mass require adjusted ideal weight ranges compared to domestic shorthairs.
How do I convert my cat's weight to grams for the BMI formula?
Multiply your cat's weight in pounds by 453.59 to convert to grams, or multiply kilograms by 1000. For example, a 10 lb cat weighs approximately 4536 grams.
How do I measure body length accurately for BMI?
Ensure the cat is standing or lying in a natural position, use a soft measuring tape, and measure the shortest distance between the skull base and tail base, avoiding curves.
How do I use the cat BMI calculator to set weight loss goals?
Enter your cat's current weight to get the BMI, determine the target BMI for ideal weight, then work with your veterinarian to create a safe weight loss plan targeting 1-2% body weight loss per week.
Why is cat BMI important for health?
Cat BMI helps identify weight-related health issues early, allowing timely intervention before conditions like diabetes, arthritis, or heart disease develop from obesity or become critical from being underweight.
Why is feline obesity a concern?
Feline obesity affects approximately 60% of domestic cats and significantly increases the risk of diabetes, arthritis, urinary tract disease, hepatic lipidosis, and reduced lifespan by 2-5 years.
Why should I monitor my cat's weight regularly?
Regular weight monitoring helps detect sudden changes that may indicate illness, parasites, dental problems, or metabolic disorders, enabling early veterinary treatment.
Why does breed matter in cat BMI calculations?
Different breeds have vastly different ideal weights�?"Maine Coons can be 25 lbs while Siamese may be 8 lbs�?"so breed-specific standards prevent misclassification of healthy cats as overweight or underweight.
Why is the body condition score more useful than weight alone?
Body condition score accounts for body frame, muscle mass, and fat distribution, making it a more accurate health indicator than weight alone, which can vary significantly between breeds and individuals.
Why do cats become obese?
Cats become obese due to overfeeding, lack of exercise, free-feeding dry food, neutering-related metabolic changes, genetics, and owner misinterpretation of normal cat body condition.
Why is early detection of weight problems important?
Early detection of weight problems allows for gradual dietary adjustments and lifestyle changes, which are more effective and safer than attempting to reverse advanced obesity or address severe malnutrition.
Why do veterinary professionals use BMI for cats?
Veterinary professionals use BMI as one component of a comprehensive health assessment because it provides an objective, measurable metric alongside BCS and clinical examination findings.
Why should senior cats be monitored differently?
Senior cats often experience muscle loss and weight changes due to aging, thyroid conditions, or kidney disease, requiring more frequent monitoring and breed-adjusted expectations for ideal weight.
Why is the cat BMI formula multiplied by 1000?
The multiplication by 1000 scales the result to a more usable number range, making it easier to categorize cats into standard weight classifications and compare against established benchmarks.
Can I calculate my cat's BMI at home?
Yes, you can calculate your cat's BMI at home using a scale and measuring tape, though veterinary assessment provides the most accurate evaluation including muscle condition and fat distribution.
Can I use a cat BMI calculator for kittens?
Yes, but kitten BMI should be interpreted differently since kittens are still growing�?"compare results against age-appropriate weight milestones rather than adult breed standards.
Can I determine my cat's ideal weight using BMI?
Yes, by calculating your cat's BMI and comparing it against breed-specific charts, you can estimate the ideal weight range, though a veterinarian can confirm with a physical examination.
Can I use the same BMI formula for all cat breeds?
The same formula works for all breeds, but the interpretation of results varies significantly�?"what's healthy for a Maine Coon may be obese for a Siamese, so breed-specific ranges are essential.
Can cat BMI predict health problems?
Cat BMI can indicate increased risk for obesity-related conditions like diabetes and arthritis, but it is not a diagnostic tool�?"veterinary examination and blood work are needed for definitive health assessments.
Can I use a regular scale for cat BMI?
Yes, a regular digital scale can work for weighing cats, but pet-specific scales or baby scales provide better accuracy and convenience for weighing uncooperative felines.
Can I use cat BMI to track weight loss progress?
Yes, tracking BMI over time helps monitor weight loss progress and ensures your cat is losing weight safely at the recommended rate of 1-2% of body weight per week.
Can I calculate cat BMI without measuring body length?
Some simplified calculators estimate BMI using only weight and breed, but the most accurate formula requires body length measurement to account for individual body frame differences.
Can indoor cats have different BMI ranges than outdoor cats?
Indoor cats may have different body composition due to lower activity levels, but the BMI ranges remain the same�?"the difference lies in activity and caloric needs rather than the formula itself.
Can cat BMI help me choose the right food portion?
Yes, knowing your cat's BMI helps determine appropriate caloric intake, with overweight cats needing reduced portions and underweight cats requiring increased calories to reach ideal weight.
Can I use a cat BMI calculator on my smartphone?
Yes, many veterinary websites and pet health apps offer mobile-friendly BMI calculators that allow you to input measurements and receive instant results.
Can cat BMI vary throughout the day?
Cat BMI can fluctuate slightly based on hydration, recent meals, and activity level, so weighing at the same time each day provides the most consistent and comparable results.
Can I assess cat BMI for a rescue or shelter cat?
Yes, BMI and BCS are valuable tools for rescue organizations to assess new arrivals, create appropriate feeding plans, and monitor progress toward healthy weight before adoption.
Can I compare my cat's BMI to other cats online?
You can compare against breed-specific charts and averages, but individual variation means your cat's BMI should be evaluated in context of their overall health and veterinary assessment.
Can a cat with a normal BMI still be unhealthy?
Yes, a cat can have a normal BMI while suffering from dental disease, parasites, kidney disease, or other conditions�?"BMI is just one health indicator among many that should be monitored.
Is cat BMI accurate for determining health?
Cat BMI is reasonably accurate as a screening tool when combined with body condition scoring, but it should be part of a comprehensive health assessment rather than a standalone diagnostic measure.
Is the cat BMI formula the same as human BMI?
No, the cat BMI formula is modified for feline anatomy�?"weight in grams divided by body length squared times 1000�?"while human BMI uses weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared.
Is cat BMI reliable for mixed breed cats?
Cat BMI is less precise for mixed breeds without established standards, but using domestic shorthair ranges and BCS assessment provides a reasonable approximation of healthy weight.
Is a cat BMI calculator better than just weighing my cat?
A BMI calculator provides more meaningful information than weight alone by accounting for body size, but body condition scoring by a veterinarian remains the gold standard for weight assessment.
Is body condition score more accurate than BMI?
Body condition score is generally considered more accurate because it evaluates fat distribution and muscle condition through physical examination, while BMI is a calculated estimate based on measurements.
Is cat BMI affected by fur length?
Fur length does not directly affect the BMI formula since it uses weight and body measurements, but long-haired cats may appear larger visually, making visual BCS assessment more challenging.
Is cat BMI useful for senior cats?
Cat BMI is useful for senior cats but should be interpreted cautiously, as aging cats may lose muscle mass while gaining fat, requiring veterinary assessment alongside BMI calculations.
Is the cat BMI calculator accurate for large breeds?
The calculator formula is accurate for large breeds, but the ideal weight ranges must be breed-specific�?"a Maine Coon at 20 lbs may be ideal while a Siamese at 20 lbs would be obese.
Is it normal for cat BMI to fluctuate?
Minor BMI fluctuations are normal due to hydration, meal timing, and activity, but consistent upward or downward trends over weeks indicate changes requiring attention.
Is cat BMI sufficient for diagnosing obesity?
Cat BMI indicates potential obesity, but definitive diagnosis requires veterinary assessment including body condition scoring, body fat percentage measurement, and evaluation of health risks.
What is the difference between cat BMI and body condition score?
Cat BMI is a calculated numerical value based on measurements, while body condition score is a hands-on physical assessment by a veterinarian or trained evaluator using standardized criteria.
What is the difference between overweight and obese cats?
Overweight cats are 10-20% above ideal weight with a BCS of 6-7, while obese cats exceed ideal weight by more than 20% with a BCS of 8-9 and face significantly higher health risks.
What is the difference between cat BMI and human BMI formulas?
Cat BMI uses weight in grams divided by body length squared times 1000, while human BMI uses weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared�?"the cat formula accounts for feline body proportions.
What is the difference between indoor and outdoor cat weight ranges?
The ideal weight ranges are the same for indoor and outdoor cats, but outdoor cats typically maintain weight better due to higher activity levels, while indoor cats may need calorie-controlled diets.
What is the difference between BCS 1-9 and BCS 1-5 systems?
The BCS 1-9 system provides more granular assessment with half-point increments, while the BCS 1-5 system is simpler but less precise�?"both are validated tools used in veterinary practice.
What is the difference between male and female cat ideal weights?
Male cats are typically 1-3 pounds heavier than females of the same breed due to larger frame size and muscle mass, so sex-specific ranges should be used when available.
What is the difference between kitten and adult cat BMI interpretation?
Kitten BMI must be interpreted against age-specific growth charts since kittens gain weight rapidly, while adult cat BMI is compared against established breed and sex-specific ideal ranges.
What is the difference between spayed and neutered cat weight needs?
Spayed and neutered cats have reduced metabolic rates and may need 20-30% fewer calories to maintain ideal weight, increasing their risk of obesity if diets are not adjusted accordingly.
What is the difference between cat BMI and body fat percentage?
Cat BMI estimates weight status using external measurements, while body fat percentage directly measures adipose tissue�?"body fat percentage is more precise but requires specialized equipment to measure.
What is the difference between gradual and sudden weight changes?
Gradual weight changes over months are often lifestyle-related and addressable through diet and exercise, while sudden weight changes over days or weeks may indicate illness requiring urgent veterinary care.
When should I first calculate my cat's BMI?
You should calculate your cat's BMI when you first adopt them, after any significant weight change, and then regularly as part of routine health monitoring.
When should I be concerned about my cat's BMI?
Be concerned when BMI indicates overweight or obese categories, when there's rapid weight gain or loss, or when your cat's appearance changes noticeably without dietary changes.
When should I take my cat to the vet for weight issues?
Take your cat to the vet if BMI indicates obesity, if weight changes suddenly, if your cat refuses food for more than 24 hours, or if you notice difficulty breathing or mobility issues.
When is the best time to weigh my cat?
Weigh your cat in the morning before feeding for the most consistent results, or at the same time each day to account for daily fluctuations from meals and hydration.
When should I start monitoring kitten weight?
Begin monitoring kitten weight at 8 weeks old when they transition to solid food, weighing weekly to ensure steady growth and identify any developmental concerns early.
When do cats typically reach their ideal adult weight?
Most cats reach their ideal adult weight between 12-18 months, though large breeds like Maine Coons may not fully mature until 3-5 years old and continue gaining weight.
When should senior cat BMI monitoring increase?
Increase BMI monitoring for senior cats over 10 years old to monthly or bi-monthly weigh-ins, as they are more prone to weight changes from thyroid disease, kidney problems, or muscle wasting.
When does feline obesity typically develop?
Feline obesity most commonly develops between ages 3-7 years, coinciding with reduced activity, neutering, and established feeding routines that may lead to overconsumption.
When should I recalculate my cat's BMI after diet changes?
Recalculate your cat's BMI every 2-4 weeks during active weight management to track progress, and monthly for maintenance monitoring to catch any trends early.
When is cat BMI most relevant for breed-specific assessment?
Cat BMI is most relevant when comparing against breed-specific standards at annual wellness visits, when introducing a new cat to your home, or when breed-related weight issues are suspected.
Does the cat BMI calculator account for breed?
Most comprehensive cat BMI calculators include breed-specific ideal weight ranges, but basic calculators may only provide general ranges that should be adjusted for your cat's breed.
Does cat BMI account for muscle mass?
Cat BMI does not directly account for muscle mass, which is why body condition scoring is complementary�?"a muscular cat may have a higher BMI but still be at ideal weight.
Does the cat BMI calculator work for senior cats?
Yes, the calculator works for senior cats, but results should be interpreted alongside veterinary assessment since aging cats may have different body composition than younger adults.
Does BMI indicate if my cat is at risk for diabetes?
A BMI in the overweight or obese range indicates increased diabetes risk, as approximately 60% of obese cats develop insulin resistance, but blood glucose testing is needed for diagnosis.
Does cat BMI change after spaying or neutering?
The BMI formula doesn't change, but spayed and neutered cats' ideal weight may shift slightly lower due to metabolic changes, making post-alteration monitoring important.
Does the calculator provide weight loss recommendations?
Some calculators provide general caloric guidelines, but personalized weight loss plans should be developed with your veterinarian based on your cat's health, age, and specific needs.
Does BMI work for hairless cat breeds?
Yes, BMI works for hairless breeds like Sphynx cats, and they may actually benefit from accurate measurement since their body condition is more visually apparent without fur.
Does the cat BMI calculator account for age?
The formula itself doesn't account for age, but interpretation of results should consider age�?"kittens and seniors have different ideal ranges than healthy adult cats.
Does BMI help detect weight gain before it's visible?
Yes, regular BMI monitoring can detect small weight increases before they become visually apparent, allowing earlier intervention when weight loss is easier and more effective.
Does the calculator show my cat's ideal target weight?
Many calculators display both current BMI and ideal weight range, helping you set specific weight goals for your cat's health improvement plan.
Which cat breeds are most prone to obesity?
Domestic shorthairs, mixed breeds, British Shorthairs, Ragdolls, and Persian cats are most prone to obesity, though any breed can become overweight with overfeeding and insufficient exercise.
Which BMI range indicates a healthy cat?
A healthy cat BMI typically falls between 2.5 and 3.5, though breed-specific adjustments are necessary�?"what's healthy for a Maine Coon may indicate overweight for a Siamese.
Which formula should I use for cat BMI calculation?
Use the standard formula: BMI = weight(g) / length(cm)^2 A- 1000, which is widely accepted in veterinary medicine, though some practitioners use alternative scoring methods.
Which is better for home assessment�?"BMI or BCS?
Body condition score is better for home assessment because it requires no calculations and relies on touch and visual observation, while BMI provides more objective numerical tracking.
Which health risks are associated with high cat BMI?
High cat BMI increases risk of diabetes, arthritis, urinary tract disease, hepatic lipidosis, respiratory problems, skin conditions, and reduced lifespan by 2-5 years.
What if my cat's BMI is too low?
A low BMI indicates underweight status�?"consult your veterinarian to rule out parasites, dental disease, illness, or nutritional deficiency, then follow a supervised weight gain plan.
What if my cat's BMI is too high?
A high BMI indicates overweight or obesity�?"implement calorie-controlled portions, increase playtime for exercise, and schedule a veterinary visit to create a safe weight loss plan.
What if my cat loses weight rapidly?
Rapid weight loss in cats can indicate serious illness including kidney disease, diabetes, hyperthyroidism, or cancer�?"seek immediate veterinary evaluation for proper diagnosis.
What if my cat's BMI differs from breed standards?
If your cat's BMI significantly differs from breed standards, consult your veterinarian to determine if this reflects true weight concerns or normal individual variation for your specific cat.
What if my cat refuses to be weighed?
Use the carrier method�?"weigh the carrier, then weigh the cat in the carrier, subtracting to find the cat's weight, or ask your veterinarian to handle weighing during visits.
What if my indoor cat is gaining weight steadily?
Indoor cats often gain weight due to limited activity�?"measure portions precisely, provide interactive toys, create vertical spaces for climbing, and consult your vet about diet changes.
What if my cat is at ideal weight but looks thin?
Some cats naturally appear thin while being at ideal BMI�?"verify with a veterinarian who can assess body condition score and rule out underlying health conditions causing muscle wasting.
What if my kitten's BMI is lower than expected?
Kittens have variable growth rates�?"compare against kitten-specific growth charts rather than adult ranges, ensure adequate nutrition, and consult your vet if growth seems stalled.
What if my senior cat is losing weight gradually?
Gradual weight loss in seniors may indicate hyperthyroidism, kidney disease, dental problems, or reduced appetite�?"veterinary evaluation is important to identify and treat underlying causes.
What if I can't afford to take my cat to the vet for weight assessment?
While BMI provides a useful home assessment, affordable options include low-cost veterinary clinics, pet store wellness events, and online veterinary consultations for guidance on weight management.
What is the exact cat BMI formula?
The exact formula is: BMI = (weight in grams) / (body length in cm)^2 A- 1000, where body length is measured from the base of the skull to the base of the tail.
How do I convert pounds to grams for the formula?
Multiply the weight in pounds by 453.592 to get grams�?"for example, 10 pounds equals approximately 4536 grams, which you then use in the BMI formula.
What body measurements are needed for cat BMI?
You need two measurements: body weight in grams and body length in centimeters, measured from the skull base to the tail base along the spine using a flexible measuring tape.
How do I calculate the squared body length value?
Multiply the body length in centimeters by itself�?"for example, if your cat's body length is 40 cm, square it by calculating 40 A- 40 = 1600, then use this in the BMI formula.
What BMI ranges correspond to each weight category?
Generally: underweight is below 2.5, ideal is 2.5-3.5, overweight is 3.5-4.5, and obese is above 4.5, though breed-specific adjustments may shift these ranges.
Why does my cat's BMI seem inaccurate?
Inaccuracies may result from incorrect body length measurement, weighing at inconsistent times, not accounting for breed differences, or individual variation in muscle mass and body composition.
Why do different calculators give different BMI results?
Different calculators may use varying formulas, ideal weight databases, or breed standards�?"stick with one consistent calculator and methodology for tracking over time.
Why is my cat's BMI stable but appearance changing?
BMI may not capture changes in muscle mass or fat distribution�?"a cat could maintain weight while losing muscle and gaining fat, making BCS assessment important alongside BMI tracking.
Why can't I get an accurate weight measurement?
Common issues include an uncooperative cat, an uncalibrated scale, weighing after meals, or using a scale on an uneven surface�?"try the carrier method or visit your vet for accurate measurement.
Why does my vet say my cat is overweight when BMI seems normal?
Veterinarians assess overall body condition including fat pads, muscle tone, and rib coverage�?"BMI alone may miss distribution patterns that a physical examination reveals, so trust your vet's assessment.