The rib touch test – what does it mean?
What you felt on those models reflects the Body Condition Score (BCS), the same scale your veterinarian uses.
Here’s what each feel corresponds to:
TOO THIN
Ribs very prominent
No effort needed to feel every rib. Bones are easily felt under the skin with no fat coverage. A health conversation with your Veterinary Team is recommended.
IDEAL WEIGHT
Ribs easily felt
You can feel each rib with gentle pressure, like touching the back of your hand. A thin fat layer covers them.
OVERWEIGHT
Ribs hard to feel
You have to press firmly to detect ribs. Like the model you touched – a thick fat layer is covering them. A health conversation with your Veterinary Team is recommended.
OBESE
Ribs cannot be felt
Even pressing hard, ribs are undetectable under dense fat deposits. A health conversation with your Veterinary Team is recommended.
Always discuss your pet’s body condition score and what it means with your veterinarian.
Try it with your dog now:
Place your hands on your dog’s sides behind the front legs. Press gently with your fingertips. Can you feel the ribs easily, similar to the feeling of the bones on the back of your own hand when it’s flat? That’s the goal. If you have to press down more firmly, or can’t feel them at all, it’s worth talking to your Veterinary Team today.
Questions worth asking during your veterinary visit today
Your veterinarian is your best resource.
Walking in with a few specific questions will help you get the most out of your visit.
1. Body condition score
What is my dog’s body condition score today? What’s the ideal target for their breed, age, health status, and well-being?
2. Daily calories
Is my dog’s current diet appropriate for them? How many calories does my dog need per day? How does that compare to what I’m currently feeding?
3. Other health conditions
Are there any health conditions (hypothyroidism, joint pain, etc.) that could be contributing to weight gain?
4. Exercise
What type and amount of exercise is safe and appropriate for my dog’s current weight and fitness level?
5. Food
Should I transition to a different diet or a weight-related diet? If so, which one do you recommend? How often should I bring my dog back for a check up?
6. Treats
How many treats can I give my dog per day based on their daily calories? Are the treats I’m currently feeding appropriate? Are there lower-calorie alternatives you’d suggest?
What is a Body Condition Score (BCS)?
BCS is a 9-point scale veterinarians use to assess body fat. A score of 4–5 is ideal. The two models on the display represented a score of 5 (ideal), and a score of 6–7 (overweight). It did not include a score of 8-9 (obese). Ask your Veterinary Team to show you where your dog falls on the chart during your visit.
A few articles to read now
Curious to learn more before or after your visit? These are a great place to start.
