A cat’s weight is one of the most important indicators of its health and well-being. Just as it is in humans, keeping at an ideal weight can help your feline friend to stay free of a myriad of significant health issues. Whether your cat is a little kitten or an adult, keeping their weight in check is crucial to making sure they live a long, happy life. For this purpose, you need a cat weight chart.
Overweight and underweight cats are more susceptible to health problems such as diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, and liver disease. Obesity, in particular, has become an increasing problem in household cats. Worldwide, more than 50% of cats in the US are considered overweight or obese, research shows. It’s a staggering number, and it represents the kind of awareness that still needs to be raised among pet owners.
Average Weight by Cat Breed
Breed is a factor that heavily influences the right weight for cats. Long, lean limbs are a natural characteristic of some breeds, while others are more square and compact. Here, how average weight stacks up across popular kitty breeds:
| Cat Breed | Average Weight Range (lbs) |
| Maine Coon | 10 – 25 |
| Siamese | 6 – 12 |
| Persian | 7 – 12 |
| Ragdoll | 10 – 20 |
| Sphynx | 6 – 12 |
| British Shorthair | 9 – 18 |
| Bengal | 8 – 15 |
| Abyssinian | 6 – 10 |
| Scottish Fold | 6 – 13 |
| American Shorthair | 8 – 15 |
Cat Weight Chart by Age
Kitten Weight Development (0-12 Months)
Kittens develop at a breakneck pace during their 1st year and should put on weight every single week as they grow. Generally speaking, the weight of the kitten at the time of birth is about 3 – 4 ounces. They usually weigh about 2 pounds by 8 weeks. Here is a specific growth graph for kittens:
| Age (Weeks) | Average Weight (lbs) |
| 0 | 0.2 – 0.3 |
| 2 | 0.5 – 0.7 |
| 4 | 1 – 1.2 |
| 6 | 1.4 – 1.8 |
| 8 | 2 – 2.5 |
| 12 | 3 – 4 |
| 16 | 4 – 5 |
| 20 | 5 – 6 |
Adult Cat Weight Chart (1-7 Years)
And once a cat becomes an adult, assuming they’re on a steady diet and exercise routine, their weight will stabilize. The average domestic cat has a mature weight of 8 to 12 pounds. But it depends, once again, on breed, gender, and lifestyle. To monitor your cat’s health, follow the cat weight chart.
Cats that regularly play, climb, and run are more likely to maintain a healthy weight. Indoor cats, though, are liable to become couch potatoes and need controlled portions if you don’t want them to gain weight.
Follow along with this guide to determine your adult cat’s weight:
Underweight: Ribs, vertebrae, and hip bones are visible, with no fat cover.
Healthy Weight: Ribs are easily felt, with minimal fat covering skin; the waist is easily visible from above.
Obese: Ribs are difficult to feel; waist is not apparent, or is bulging; back may sag.
Regular weighing, done monthly or every other month, can help catch changes early. Seek veterinary advice if your adult cat’s weight changes by a pound in either direction in the space of a few days. Using a cat weight chart can be very effective.
Senior Cat Weight Chart (8+ Years)
With adult cats, metabolism can change with age. Some older cats become too thin because they have less muscle mass, dental issues, or an illness. When a cat becomes old, it is essential to check their weight. To keep track, you must follow the cat weight chart.
In general, senior cats should weigh approximately the same as they did at their adult weight, although their body composition may differ. As cats grow older, many lose muscle (a condition known as sarcopenia), making them seem thinner, although the weight on the scale might look fine.
How to Keep Your Senior Cat Healthy:
- Transition to senior cat food designed for older metabolisms.
- Ramp up low-impact activities, such as mild play or puzzle toys.
- Monitor their weight monthly.
Weight loss in older cats is often a significant warning sign for diseases such as hyperthyroidism, kidney disease, or cancer. So, don’t underestimate the power of small changes.
Differences in Cat Weight Between Males and Females
Standard Weight Ranges for Males
Male cats are generally bigger and heavier than females. This is particularly true for non-neutered (intact) males, who often put on greater muscle mass and broader shoulders. Here is a rough guide to what you can expect:
- Domestic Shorthair (Male): 10 to 15 lbs
- Maine Coon (16 lbs) 15 to 25 lbs
- Siamese (Male): 8 – 12 lbs
- British Shorthair (Male): 12 – 18 lbs.
- Ragdoll (Male): 15 – 20 lbs
Of course, those are just average ranges. It’s perfectly normal for some cats to be a little above or below that number. The real issue is: What kind of body have you got? A 16-pound male Maine Coon may be lean and fit, whereas a 12-pound Domestic Shorthair could be overweight if it is sedentary and overfed.
Standard Weight Ranges for Females
Female cats are generally smaller and lighter than males, but this is not a rigid rule. As with males, weight will range depending on breed and individual build. Here are a few examples:
Physical Characteristics of the Domestic Shorthair Female: 8 – 12 lbs
Female Maine Coon: 10 – 18 lbs
Siamese (Female): 6 – 10 lbs
British Shorthair (females): 9 to 15 lbs
Ragdoll (Female): 10 – 15 lbs
Because women are, for the most part, more minor, small but noticeable increases in weight can slip through the cracks. Two pounds might not sound like a lot of weight, but if a cat should weigh 9 pounds, that’s more than 20% of her body weight, which is significant.
Body Condition Score (BCS) System
What Is BCS and How to Use It
When evaluating your cat’s health, the number on the scale doesn’t tell the whole picture. It is where the Body Condition Score (BCS) comes in. This system assesses a cat’s body fat and muscle mass on a numerical scale, typically from 1 to 9 or 1 to 5. For simplification’s sake, we’ll stick to the 1–9 scale here.
Here’s a breakdown to measure the weight without using the cat weight chart.
| Score | Condition | Description |
| 1 | Emaciated | Ribs, spine, and bones are visible. No fat. Muscle loss. |
| 2 | Very Thin | Ribs and bones are easily visible. Minimal fat. |
| 3 | Thin | Ribs are visible with little fat. |
| 4-5 | Ideal | Ribs can be felt, and a slight waist is visible. Good muscle tone. |
| 6 | Slightly Overweight | Ribs not easily felt, waist barely visible. |
| 7 | Overweight | Ribs are difficult to feel, with a rounded belly and no waist. |
| 8 | Obese | Large fat deposits over the body, sagging belly, no waist. |
| 9 | Severely Obese | Distended abdomen, extreme fat deposits. |
Interpreting BCS Scores
Knowing your cat’s BCS enables you to take action before a small problem becomes a big issue. If you are not using a cat weight chart, this BCS score is beneficial. Here’s how to respond, according to the score:
1–3 (Underweight): Consult a vet. Your cat may have an underlying issue, such as parasites or hyperthyroidism, or may simply require more calories.
4–5 (Excellent): You are a highly effective teacher in virtually every respect. Conduct a monthly weight check and continue the activity.
6–7 (Overweight): Modify portion and try to play with the animal more. Change to diet food if necessary.
8–9 (Obese): These cats require a vet-managed weight loss program. Being overweight makes your cat more susceptible to diabetes, joint pain, and a shorter life.
Conclusion – How to Use the Cat Weight Chart
Maintaining your cat’s healthy body weight is crucial. Whether you’re adopting a new kitten, supporting an adult cat, or caring for a senior cat, knowing your cat’s ideal weight range is crucial. (Use a breed-specific cat weight chart, measure body condition regularly, and monitor lifestyle factors like diet and exercise.
FAQs about Cat Weight Chart
How frequently should I weigh my cat using the cat weight chart?
You should weigh your cat a minimum of once a month. If your cat is on a weight-reduction or weight-gain plan, weekly weigh-ins can be a more helpful tool for monitoring progress.
What is best to feed cats for the best weight control: dry or wet?
Wet food tends to be better for weight control. It is lower in calorie density, higher in moisture (making it filling), and can prevent overeating.
Can indoor cats be healthy and non-overweight without any outside time?
Yes! The indoor cat can achieve a healthy weight through a balanced diet and physical activity such as playing indoors. Toys, climbing trees, and feeding interactive activities can keep them occupied.
Is there a way to weigh my cat without using a cat weight chart?
Adopt the BCS method. Your cat may be overweight if you can’t easily feel the ribs, observe the waist, or see an abdominal tuck, or if the belly sags.
Do spayed or neutered cats gain more weight?
Yes, spaying or neutering can slow a pet’s metabolism and increase its appetite. However, with controlled portions and regular exercise, you can easily regulate your pet’s weight.
