https://www.chewy.com/education/cat/food-and-nutrition/what-to-feed-kittens
*Cats are OBLIGATE Carnivores.
Providing proper nutrition for kittens is essential as they grow from tiny newborns into healthy adult cats.
During their first few weeks, kittens rely entirely on their mother’s milk, which offers vital nutrients and antibodies to protect them from illness.
If necessary, specially formulated kitten milk replacers can supplement their diet.
As they reach about 3 - 4 weeks old, kittens begin the weaning process by gradually transitioning to high quality canned kitten food mixed with water, eventually moving to solid foods by 8 - 10 weeks.
Throughout this period, kittens need a diet rich in protein, essential vitamins, and minerals to support their rapid growth and development.
Wet foods are generally recommended because they provide extra hydration, but if dry food is introduced, plenty of fresh water should always be available.
As kittens grow, their nutritional needs continue to be unique, requiring foods formulated specifically for their developmental stage, ideally meeting or exceeding AAFCO standards.
It is important to feed them multiple small meals daily and monitor their body condition to avoid overfeeding, which can lead to obesity.
Most kittens should switch to adult cat food around 10 months of age or once they reach full adult size.
Though raising a healthy kitten takes effort and attention, providing balanced nutrition lays the foundation for a lifetime of well being.
Always consult your veterinarian if you have any concerns about your kitten’s diet or growth to ensure they thrive every step of the way.
Chewy editorial team understands how deeply you care about giving your kitten the best possible start in life, and we are here to support you every step of the way.
With the right nutrition and a lot of love, your kitten will grow into a happy, healthy cat who fills your home with joy for years to come.
