The Condition Score

 

Only animals with a condition score greater than 3 should be

considered fit for human consumption.

Shape and covering determine condition scores

 

Score Number

Condition

Description

Shape of body

5

Overfat

Hips and backbone heavily covered

Bulbous

 

4

Fat

Hips and backbone cannot be felt

Tending to bulge

 

3.5

Good condition

Hips and backbone only felt with difficulty

Tube shape

 

 

3

Normal

Hips and backbone only felt with firm palm pressure

Tube shaped

 

 

2.5

Somewhat thin

Hips and backbone felt without palm pressure

Tube shaped but flat (slab) sides

 

 

2

Thin

Hips and backbone noticeable and easily felt

Ribs and spine can be felt

 

1

Emaciated

Hips and backbone visible

Bone structure apparent (ribs and backbone)

 

 

Condition 1

Condition score2

Condition score3

Condition score 4

Condition score5

1

2

3

4

5

 

Back fat meter may be more useful. 

However, note condition score and back fat correlation differs between different breeds

 

Body score calculator spreadsheet