Welcoming a new kitten into your home is an exciting time filled with cuddles, playful antics, and a lot of learning. Among the crucial things to consider is how and what to feed your new furry friend. Proper kitten nutrition not only ensures their growth and energy but also establishes the foundations for a healthy life.
This guide is here to walk you through everything you need to know about feeding your kitten, from food types to schedules and transitioning foods.
Contents:
- Kitten nutrition basics
- Wet vs. dry food
- How often should you feed your kitten?
- How to change food safely
- Hydration tips
- Common feeding mistakes to avoid
Understanding Kitten Nutrition Basics
Kittens grow rapidly during their first year, and have a higher requirement for energy and certain nutrients compared to adult cats. Their diet should be specifically designed to support this growth, providing the right balance of protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals. Opt for kitten-specific food rather than food intended for adult cats, as it contains the higher calorie content and essential nutrients kittens need.
ADVANCE™ Kitten Growth dry food provides all they need with a great tasting formula. If you have more than one cat, and they’re at different life stages, consider ADVANCE™ Multicat All Ages dry food as this can be fed to kitten, adult and senior cats alike.
Key nutrients to look out for:
- Protein: Primary for muscle development.
- Fats: Vital for energy and healthy skin and coat.
- Calcium & Phosphorus: Crucial for strong bones and teeth.
- Taurine: A must-have amino acid for heart health and vision.
When choosing kitten food, check labels for high-quality ingredients and look for flavours they’ll enjoy. Some sustainable pet food brands now also focus on responsibly sourced ingredients, which benefits not just your kitten but the environment too.
Wet Food vs. Dry Food
Both wet and dry food options have their merits, and many pet parents find that a combination of the two works best. Here’s a breakdown:
Wet Food
High in moisture, wet food helps kittens stay hydrated, which can be beneficial for their urinary tract health. It also tends to be highly palatable, which can be helpful if your kitten is a picky eater. However, it has a shorter shelf life once opened.
Dry Food
Offers convenience as, stored properly, it has a longer shelf life. It’s useful for dental health as the crunch can help reduce plaque. However, it is low in moisture, so ensure your kitten has constant access to fresh water.
Which is better?
The choice ultimately comes down to what fits your kitten’s needs and your lifestyle. Consult with your vet or animal nutritionist if you’re unsure which option to prioritise.
Establishing a Feeding Schedule
Kittens thrive on routine, and having a feeding schedule not only ensures they get the nutrition they need but also creates a sense of security. Here’s a suggested breakdown:
- 0-4 Months: Kittens under 4 months typically need 4-5 small meals a day due to their tiny stomachs. Spread these out evenly, ensuring your kitten eats every 3-4 hours.
- 4-6 Months: At this stage, you can reduce meals to 3 per day but still maintain portion control to suit their high energy needs.
- 6-12 Months: Transition to 2 larger meals per day as they approach adulthood.
Many cats prefer to feed little and often by revisiting their food bowl frequently. This is normal behaviour for a cat, but be sure to still measure out the quantity to avoid overfeeding. While these guidelines are a good starting point, always monitor your kitten’s weight and energy levels. Overfeeding can lead to obesity, while underfeeding may affect healthy development.
Transitioning Foods Safely
At some point, you may need to transition your kitten to a new food—whether it’s as they mature into adult cats or due to dietary needs. Sudden changes, however, can cause stomach upsets. Here’s how to do it gradually:
- Days 1-2: Mix 75% of the current food with 25% of the new food.
- Days 3-4: Adjust to a 50/50 mix.
- Days 5-6: Serve 25% old food and 75% new food.
- Day 7 onwards: Fully transition to the new food.
This slow introduction allows your kitten’s digestive system to adjust and can prevent diarrhoea or vomiting. Always stay observant during the process and reach out to a vet if any issues arise.
Hydration is Key
Kittens require adequate water intake to support their overall health. While wet food contributes to hydration, ensure your kitten has a constant supply of clean, fresh water. Use broad, shallow bowls, as cats generally dislike narrow containers that can brush against their whiskers. For some kittens, a water fountain can also encourage drinking due to their love of running water.
Common Feeding Mistakes to Avoid
Feeding mistakes can inadvertently lead to health issues. Avoid the following pitfalls:
- Feeding Only Leftovers: Human food often lacks the proper nutrients and might even be harmful to cats. For instance, onions, garlic, and chocolate are toxic.
- Skipping Meals: Irregular feeding can lead to lethargy and medical complications like hypoglycaemia, especially in young kittens.
- Overfeeding Treats: Treats should make up no more than 10% of their daily calorie intake, as excess can lead to obesity and unbalance the diet.
Be mindful of portion sizes provided on the food packaging but also work with your veterinarian to cater to your kitten’s specific needs.
Building a Community of Responsible Pet Parents
Feeding your kitten does more than provide sustenance; it creates moments of bonding and trust. At the same time, being intentional about your choices as a pet parent showcases your commitment to their well-being. By prioritising sustainable, high-quality options, you also contribute to a healthier planet for future generations of fur-babies (and their humans).
If you’re excited to learn more about what’s best for your kitten, join online forums or local groups created for pet lovers. Sharing experiences and advice with other like-minded parents can help you refine your approach and exchange tips you might never have considered.
Feeding your kitten is a joyful yet responsible task. By focusing on high-quality kitten nutrition, creating a consistent feeding schedule, and transitioning foods gradually where necessary, you’re on the right path to raising a healthy and happy cat.
Your kitten depends on you to make the best choices for their well-being. If in doubt, don’t hesitate to reach out to a veterinarian or pet nutritionist. After all, no two kittens are alike, and tailoring their nutrition will help them grow into their unique personalities.
Start giving your kitten the best start to life today—and enjoy every adorable meow, purr, and playful tail wave along the way!