This article was approved by Lemonade’s favorite vet, Dr. Stephanie Liff.
Bringing home a new kitten is an exciting adventure filled with tiny paws, endless curiosity, and lots of cuddles. One of the most important decisions you’ll make as a pet parent is making sure your furry friend receives the right nutrition to support their growth and development.
Knowing how much to feed a young kitten can be tricky since their nutritional needs change as they grow. Let’s take a closer look at how to keep your kitten healthy and happy, starting with their diet.
What does a normal feeding schedule for kittens look like?
Much like human babies, feeding kittens requires attention to specific dietary needs that change as they grow. Understanding these needs will help you determine the right amount of food. Generally, kittens require more calories than adult cats to fuel their rapid growth and boundless energy.
Note: This chart provides general guidelines, but always consult your vet to ensure your kitten’s unique nutritional needs are met.
| Age | Feeding frequency | Portion size per meal | Type of food | Additional information |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 – 4 weeks of age | Every 2 – 4 hours | Follow bottle guidelines | Kitten formula (bottle-fed) | Kittens rely on their mother’s milk or a kitten milk replacer for essential nutrients. Avoid cow’s milk as it can cause digestive issues. |
| 4 – 8 weeks of age | Every 4 – 6 hours | Small amounts (around 1 tsp) | Transition food (formula + wet/moistened dry food) | Kittens start weaning and can be introduced to soft or moistened kitten food. This is a good time to let them explore new textures and flavors. |
| 8 – 16 weeks of age | 3 times daily | 2 – 4 tablespoons per meal | Wet and/ or dry kitten food | At this age, kittens should be fully transitioned to solid food. A mix of wet and dry food provides essential nutrients like proteins and fatty acids. |
| 4 months old and up | 2 – 3 times daily | ¼ to ⅓ cup per meal | Wet and/ or dry kitten food | Feeding three small meals daily supports kittens’ high energy levels and developmental needs. Gradually adjust portions based on growth and activity levels. |
Always ensure that fresh water is accessible to your kitten throughout the day to keep them hydrated. As they grow, regularly monitor their body weight and activity level to confirm they’re developing at a healthy rate. Adjust their food portions if needed, increasing or decreasing based on their energy needs and growth to help them thrive.
What should I do if my kitten isn’t eating enough?
It’s important to pay attention to your kitten’s eating habits to ensure they’re getting the proper nutrition. If your kitten is struggling to eat, try these tips:
- Monitor health and behavior: If your kitten is lethargic or showing signs of illness, consult a veterinarian immediately to rule out any health issues.
- Experiment with food types: Some kittens prefer wet food due to its aroma and texture, while others might enjoy dry kibble. Mixing both can make meals more appealing.
- Warm up the food: Slightly warming wet food can enhance its smell, making it more enticing for your kitten.
- Use flavor enhancers: Add a bit of tuna juice or low-sodium chicken broth to their food to increase its appeal. Be cautious with quantities to avoid upsetting their stomach.
- Create a calm environment: Ensure your kitten’s eating area is quiet and free from stressors or distractions.
- Check food freshness: Kittens might refuse stale or expired food. Always store food properly and check expiration dates.
- Consult your vet: Regular visits to the vet can help track your kitten’s growth and offer tailored feeding advice.
Always consult your vet before making any changes to your kitten’s diet to ensure their nutritional needs are being met safely.
What are the best types of cat food for kittens?
Choosing the right type of food is essential for meeting your kitten’s nutritional needs. A balanced diet should include high-quality kitten food rich in protein and essential nutrients like taurine and calcium. You should aim for 50% protein, 30% fat, and 10% carbohydrates in your kitten’s diet.
Here’s a breakdown of some of the different types of kitten food:
| Type of food | Benefits | Other considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Wet canned food | High in moisture, great for hydration, often more palatable for picky eaters | Can be more expensive compared to dry food, and it spoils quickly if left out, so any leftovers need to be stored properly |
| Dry food (kibble) | Convenient and easy to store, dry food is often more budget-friendly. It can also help promote dental health by reducing tartar buildup due to its crunchiness | Low in moisture, which can lead to dehydration if your kitten doesn’t drink enough water. Prolonged dehydration may also lead to urinary tract issues. |
| Frozen raw food | Closely mimics a kitten’s natural diet, offering high protein and nutrients that support growth and development. Raw food also often has fewer preservatives. | Requires careful storage in a freezer to prevent contamination and spoilage. Handling raw food requires extra hygiene practices to ensure safety. |
| Homemade/fresh food | Gives you complete control over the ingredients, allowing you to provide a diet that’s free from preservatives and tailored to your kitten’s specific needs. | Homemade food must be carefully planned to ensure it’s nutritionally balanced, so it’s important to consult with a veterinarian for guidance. |
| Prescription diets | Specially formulated to address specific health issues, such as digestive problems or food sensitivities, based on your kitten’s medical needs. | Requires a veterinarian’s prescription and can be more expensive than regular commercial kitten food, with limited availability. |
When should I transition my kitten to adult cat food?
Around 12 months of age, most kittens are ready to transition to adult cat food. This process should be gradual over seven to 10 days to avoid digestive issues.
Here are some general tips on how to help your kitty transition to adult cat food:
- Start by mixing before transitioning fully to adult cat food. Mix small amounts of adult food with their kitten food.
- Increase the ratio of adult food gradually while decreasing the kitten food.
- Monitor their body condition and adjust portions accordingly.
Like with any changes to your cat’s diet, make sure to consult your vet to ensure a smooth transition.
Before we go…
Feeding your kitten the right amount of food is crucial for their growth and development. A balanced diet, combined with regular vet check-ups, ensures your feline friend grows into a healthy adult cat. With pet insurance, you can feel confident knowing you’re prepared for unexpected health issues that may arise along the way.
Did you know you can cover your cat with Lemonade pet insurance from the time they’re two months old? Consider getting a quote today to protect your beloved kitten’s future, and your wallet.
A few quick words, because we <3 our lawyers: This post is general in nature, and any statement in it doesn’t alter the terms, conditions, exclusions, or limitations of policies issued by Lemonade, which differ according to your state of residence. You’re encouraged to discuss your specific circumstances with your own professional advisors. The purpose of this post is merely to provide you with info and insights you can use to make such discussions more productive! Naturally, all comments by, or references to, third parties represent their own views, and Lemonade assumes no responsibility for them. Coverage and discounts may not be available in all states.
