What Should I Feed My Kitten?
Feeding your kitten the right food is crucial for their growth, health, and development, but many new kitten owners aren’t sure what to feed a kitten, how much to feed a kitten, or whether kittens need special food. Choosing the best kitten food, understanding if kittens can eat adult cat food, and knowing when to switch to adult food are key to raising a healthy, happy cat. If you’re wondering what to feed your kitten, how often to feed them, and whether wet or dry food is better for kittens, this guide has everything you need to know.
🐾 Problem: Kittens grow rapidly and have different nutritional needs to adult cats
Your kitten is growing quickly, building strong bones, muscles, and organs. Feeding adult cat food or generic food without the right nutrients can lead to stunted growth or health issues.
✅ Solution:
Feed a food specifically formulated for kittens with:
✔️ High-quality animal protein for growth and muscle development
✔️ Healthy fats for energy
✔️ Essential vitamins and minerals like calcium and phosphorus for strong bones and teeth
🐾 Problem: Kittens have tiny mouths and developing teeth
Large kibble or hard food can be difficult and uncomfortable for kittens to chew.
✅ Solution:
Choose small kibble dry food or soft mousse-style wet food formulated for kittens, making mealtimes easy and enjoyable.
✔️ Try: Catit Recipes Kitten Dry Food and Catit Cuisine Kitten Chicken Mousse – both formulated to support healthy development from weaning to 12 months.
🐾 Problem: Kittens need more frequent feeding
Because of their small stomachs and high energy needs, feeding kittens the same way as adult cats can leave them hungry and undernourished.
✅ Solution:
Feed your kitten 3-4 small meals a day under 6 months, reducing to 2-3 meals daily as they grow older, ensuring they get steady energy and nutrients throughout the day.
🐾 Problem: New kitten owners worry about treats
Giving kittens inappropriate treats or too many can lead to tummy upsets or imbalanced diets.
✅ Solution:
Use treats sparingly (no more than 10% of their daily calories) and choose those formulated for kittens, like Catit Creamy lickable treats, as a delicious reward for bonding or training.
Give your kitten the healthiest start in life
Feeding your kitten the right food ensures they grow strong, healthy, and happy. Explore our kitten food and essentials range to find everything you need to give your kitten the best start.
📝 FAQ
What is the best food for kittens?
The best kitten food is one specially formulated with high-quality animal proteins, healthy fats, and essential nutrients to support growth, like Catit Recipes Kitten Dry Food or Catit Cuisine Kitten Mousse.
Can kittens eat adult cat food?
No, adult cat food doesn’t have the calories, protein, or nutrients kittens need for healthy development.
When should I switch my kitten to adult food?
Most kittens can transition to adult cat food at 12 months old, when their growth has slowed.
Should I feed my kitten wet or dry food?
Both have benefits. Wet food supports hydration and is easy to eat, while dry food helps develop chewing strength. Many owners feed a combination for balanced benefits.