How to track your pet's weight at home
Short answer: weigh at the same time of day on the same scale, use the hold-and-subtract method for small pets, write each number down with the date in one unit (kg or lb), and look at the trend over weeks rather than any single reading.
1. Weighing at home
- Small dogs and cats: weigh yourself, then weigh yourself holding the pet, and subtract.
- Large dogs: a clinic scale or pet scale is more accurate.
- Same scale, same time of day, before meals.
2. How often
Monthly for healthy adults. Weekly for growing kittens and puppies, seniors, foster animals and pets on a diet.
3. Pick one unit
Use the unit your vet uses, kg or lb, so you can compare numbers at check-ups.
4. Watch the trend
A single reading can be off by a little. A line over several weeks shows whether weight is really going up or down.
Doing it with Pawdue
In Pawdue open the pet, add a weight in kg or lb, and the chart updates. Each entry also appears in the pet's timeline next to vaccines, meds and notes, ready to show your vet.
FAQ
How do I weigh a cat or small dog on a bathroom scale?
Weigh yourself, then weigh yourself holding the pet. The difference is the pet's weight.
How often should I weigh my pet?
Once a month for most adults. Weekly for kittens, puppies, seniors, or pets on a diet or new medication.
When should I call the vet about weight?
If your pet gains or loses weight quickly without a reason, or your vet asked you to watch it.