A handy Rabbit Body Condition Score (BCS) chart is now available from theAssociation for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP), to help veterinarians better support health assessments for rabbits.  The BCS is assessed by feeling key areas such as the ribs, spine, hips and abdomen, while also observing the rabbit’s overall shape and fat distribution.  Due to their thick fur, palpation is especially important when evaluating a rabbit’s body condition. 

The scoring ranges on a scale from 1 to 9, with:

1 – indicating emaciation

5 – representing and ideal body condition

9 – reflecting obesity

To view the Rabbit BCS Chart and steps on how to perform a Body Condition Assessment on a rabbit, go to the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention website at  www.petobesityprevention.org

Download the Rabbit BCS chart here.