Feeding your kitten: what to eat, how much, and when to switch to adult food

A kitten's nutritional needs are very different from those of an adult cat: more protein, more fat, more calcium and phosphorus (in the correct proportions), and more energy per kilogram of body weight. A kitten fed adult cat food can develop deficiencies that affect its growth and bone health.

Feeding stages in the first year

0-4 weeks: breast milk or formula

Mother's milk is irreplaceable. If the kitten is orphaned, use a specific milk substitute for cats (NEVER cow's milk: kittens are lactose intolerant and it can cause severe diarrhea and dehydration).

4-8 weeks: start of weaning

At 4 weeks, begin offering wet or dry kitten food soaked in warm water. Complete weaning occurs around 6-8 weeks. The mother should remain available for as long as the kitten needs.

8 weeks – 12 months: puppy food

Use food specifically formulated for growing cats (labeled "kitten" or "puppy") or "for all life stages" with adequate levels of protein (minimum 30% dry matter) and taurine. Cats are obligate carnivores that cannot synthesize taurine; a deficiency causes blindness and cardiomyopathy.

Dry, humid, or mixed?

• Damp: Higher water content (70-80%), excellent for hydration and kidney function. Cats naturally drink little water (they are descendants of desert animals), and wet food compensates for this. Many feline nutritionists prefer it.
• Dry: More practical, more economical, and possibly with some mechanical effect on tartar buildup. But it does require the cat to drink extra water.
• Mixed: The most common option: combines the benefits of both.

Discover our selection of specific food for kittens and wet food for kittens.

How many times a day?

• Puppies have small stomachs and a fast metabolism: 3-4 feedings a day until 6 months.
• From 6 to 12 months: 2-3 feedings.
• Adult cats tend to self-regulate their intake well: many owners opt for free access to dry food.

When should I switch to adult food?

Standard breeds typically reach 90% of their adult size by 12 months of age. Larger breeds like Maine Coons are best avoided until 18-24 months. The transition should be gradual (10-14 days).

Conclusion

The first year is the most critical for feline nutrition. A high-quality, kitten-specific diet with the correct ratio of animal protein and adequate moisture lays the foundation for a healthy adult cat. Don't skimp on quality during this stage.