Title: Determine the body condition of an animal.
Course: Veterinary Science I (18105-I) > Section: Understanding Animal Nutrition

Determination should include using a body condition score (BCS) chart, where appropriate, to evaluate body fat through

- visual assessment from the top and side
- palpation of waist, ribs and abdominal tuck and dorsal spinous processes at tail base
- signs of malnutrition, including muscle condition scoring (MCS) when applicable.

Teacher Resources:

- Body Condition Score, Global Nutrition Committee, The World Small Animal Veterinary Association
- Body Condition Scoring System, AAHA

Process/Skill Questions:

- How can obesity be dangerous to an animal?
- How can an animal owner prevent obesity in a pet?
- Why should pets not be fed table scraps?
- What criteria are used in body condition scoring?
- What two charts are available for body condition scoring, and why is it important to note which chart was used when assigning a score?