Dry kitten food

In their first year kittens need almost twice the energy per kilo of body weight that an adult cat does. Kitten dry foods are therefore higher in protein (usually 34% or more) and fat, and are formulated with DHA for brain and eye development and a balanced calcium-to-phosphorus ratio for bones. Small, easy-to-crunch kibble suits milk teeth.

During weaning (around weeks 4–8) you can start by softening the kibble with warm water. Kittens have small stomachs, so split the daily amount into 3–4 meals; after six months you can move to 2–3. Fresh water should always be available.

Kitten food is normally fed until about 12 months; slow-maturing breeds such as the Maine Coon may stay on it until 15–18 months. If your kitten was neutered early, keep an eye on weight and ask your vet about a sterilised kitten formula.