All about Kittens. Series 3: Feeding a Kitten

🐾 What to Feed, When, and Why

As we discussed in our previous post about preparing your home for your kitten, another important aspect is feeding your kitten the right way is one of the most important steps in raising a healthy, happy cat. From choosing between wet and dry food to knowing what nutrients they need, here’s everything you need to know about feeding your new feline friend.

🥣 Types of Kitten Food

1. Dry Food (Kibble)

• Convenient and long-lasting

• Helps with dental health

• Lower moisture content (may require extra water intake)

• Choose a kitten-specific formula for proper growth

2. Wet Food (Canned)

• High in moisture—great for hydration

• Softer texture, easier to eat

• More palatable, especially for picky eaters

• Can spoil if left out too long

3. Homemade or Raw Diets

• Customizable with the right balance

• Higher risk of nutritional gaps and contamination

• Only recommended with veterinary guidance

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💧 Wet vs. Dry Food: Which Is Better?

Many vets recommend feeding a mix of both. Here's why:

Benefit	Wet Food	Dry Food
Moisture	✅ High	❌ Low
Convenience	❌ Requires refrigeration	✅ Easy to store & serve
Dental Health	❌ Less effective	✅ Helps reduce tartar
Taste	✅ Very palatable	❌ Sometimes less appealing
Cost	❌ More expensive	✅ Budget-friendly

👉 Best Option: A combination of both for hydration, dental care, and variety.

🧬 What Makes a Good Kitten Diet?

Look for food labeled "Complete & Balanced" and formulated for kittens. Here’s what their diet should include:

• High-quality protein – builds muscle and supports energy

• Healthy fats – brain development and a shiny coat

• Calcium & phosphorus – strong bones and teeth

• DHA (Omega-3) – brain and vision development

• Taurine – essential for heart and eye health

✅ Pro Tip: Always check for AAFCO approval on the packaging.

🕒 Feeding Schedule by Age

Age Range	Meals Per Day
6–12 weeks	4 meals
3–6 months	3 meals
6–12 months	2–3 meals

💧 Always provide fresh, clean water—especially if feeding mostly dry food.

✅ Quick Tips for Feeding Kittens

• Use shallow dishes for easy access

• Keep feeding times consistent

• Transition to new foods gradually to avoid upset stomachs

• Store wet food in the fridge after opening

• Avoid feeding cow’s milk—it can cause digestive issues

  
  

❤️ Final Thoughts

A nutritious, well-balanced diet helps your kitten grow into a healthy, energetic adult cat. By choosing the right food, maintaining a feeding schedule, and focusing on quality, you’re giving your little one the best start in life.

Need help picking the perfect food? 🐱 Chat with us or check out our shop for our recommended brands!