How to Feed Kittens: Tips for Healthy Growth and Nutrition
While the spring season ushers in a wave of warm weather and blooming buds, it also sees an influx of something a bit fluffier — kittens! From the months of April to October, shelters often experience an overflow due to the surge in feline births. Whether you choose to foster, adopt or help a stray kitten, it’s important to be aware of their dietary needs at such a critical stage in their development. If you’re new to kitten care, don’t worry! Here’s everything you need to know to nourish these little ones from bottle to bowl.
Understanding Kitten Nutritional Needs
Kittens grow fast, and they need the proper nutrients and diet in order to do so. Their bodies need the right fuel: high protein and fat content with essential vitamins and minerals. Unlike adult cats, kittens require more frequent feedings and calorie-dense meals to support their rapid growth and development. Feeding the wrong diet — or not enough — can lead to serious health issues, so it’s important to follow age-appropriate guidelines. Dr. Elsey’s cleanprotein is an excellent food choice for all life stages — it’s higher in protein than other growth or kitten formula diets on the market. It matches the same protein level found in a cat’s natural prey, allowing you to feed your kitten the same diet you provide your other cats regardless of age.
Feeding by Age: From Kitten to Young Cat
8-12 weeks
- Kittens should now be eating solid wet food or kitten kibble (you can soften kibble with warm water).
- Feed 3–4 meals per day.
3-6 months
- Increase portion sizes to match their growing bodies.
- Stick to 3 meals per day,and keep food measured.
- Monitor weight to prevent under or over-feeding.
Healthy Feeding Tips
Aside from what to feed and how much of it to feed, there’s a few other factors to making sure your kitten is getting everything they need. Keep fresh water readily available to them, and make sure you stick to a routine when feeding. Try to feed your kitten at the same times and in the same location so they don’t get confused or stressed. To be extra careful, keep the same consistency for their litter box to keep stress low — we recommend Dr. Elsey’s Kitten Attract to draw your new cat to the box while keeping it in the same spot. Keep an eye on their weight and energy levels while they grow — if you notice vomiting, diarrhea or excess exhaustion, consult your veterinarian.
Common Feeding Mistakes
We’re here to call out the biggest myth when it comes to feeding kittens, and even fully-grown cats — milk. Any milk aside from their mother’s milk can heavily upset your kitten’s stomach. Stick to feeding your kittens the normal, recommended cat food made for them after they’ve weaned off of their mother. If you need to make a change to their food, do it gradually and over the span of a few weeks. Follow the guidelines as closely as you can for proper portions to avoid over-feeding or under-feeding.
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