Breed Guide
British Shorthair: Pet-to-Human Weight Comparison
This is a visualization tool. Human comparisons use the standard adult healthy BMI range (18.5–24.9) based on the height you enter. Estimated Body Condition Score (BCS) is based on percent above or below the breed’s typical range.
Pet-to-Human Weight Calculator
Tip: British Shorthairs are naturally stocky. Feel ribs and look for a waist to avoid mistaking fat for frame.
Please select sex and enter a valid cat weight and height.
Estimated range based on common breed references:
Cat status:
Estimated Body Condition Score (BCS):
Human healthy weight range at (BMI 18.5–24.9):
Estimated BCS uses whole numbers only and should always be confirmed with hands-on assessment and APOP body condition charts.
Typical Breed Ranges (Starting Point Only)
Female British Shorthair
Typical weight: 7–11 lb (3.2–5.0 kg)
Dense bone, compact frame.
Male British Shorthair
Typical weight: 11–16 lb (5.0–7.3 kg)
Broad chest, heavy musculature.
These ranges reflect typical healthy adults at or near BCS 5 and are not maximum size targets.
How to Check Body Condition at Home (Cats)
The number on the scale doesn’t tell the whole story. This quick check helps you spot changes early and decide when to loop in your veterinary team. (Works for domestic short-, medium-, and long-hair cats.)
60-second home check
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Ribs: You can feel ribs easily with light pressure, but they aren’t visibly sticking out.
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Waist: From above, there’s a gentle “in” behind the ribs (not a straight tube).
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Belly line: From the side, the abdomen is mostly level or gently tucked.
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Primordial pouch: A small, soft flap of skin on the lower belly can be normal, even in lean cats. The key is that the whole abdomen shouldn’t look round or swing heavily.
If ribs are hard to feel, the waist disappears from above, or the midsection looks rounded, your cat may be carrying extra body fat.
Feeding habits that make the biggest difference
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Measure portions. Use a kitchen scale when possible. “Eyeballing” is the #1 way calories creep up.
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Prioritize protein. For many cats, higher-protein, controlled-calorie diets support lean mass during weight management.
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Cut calories without cutting meals. Split into 2–4 smaller meals or use puzzle feeders to slow eating and reduce begging.
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Limit treats and “extras.” Keep treats under ~10% of daily calories. Count toppers, lickable treats, and table bites too.
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Recheck regularly. Track weight and body condition every 2–4 weeks and adjust with your veterinary team.
Not sure? Your veterinary team can confirm BCS (including what’s normal vs. not for the primordial pouch)
and help set safe, realistic goals for your cat.
This page is for education only and is not medical advice. Always consult your veterinary team for a personalized plan.