Kitten food
Kitten food rich in protein and DHA, supporting rapid growth from weaning to 12 months.
2 products
Kittens grow to around 30–40 times their birth weight in their first year. That rapid growth needs more protein, fat, calcium and phosphorus than adult food provides, so feed kitten food until 12 months of age (up to 15 months for large breeds such as the Maine Coon).
What to look for in a good kitten food
- High-quality animal protein, with protein close to 35%
- DHA (fish oil) for brain and eye development
- A balanced calcium-to-phosphorus ratio
- Small, easy-to-chew kibble for little mouths
Kittens have small stomachs, so feed little and often: four meals a day from 2–4 months, three meals from 4–6 months and two to three meals after six months. Softening dry food slightly with warm water in the first weeks and offering one wet meal a day makes weaning easier.
Keep a newly adopted kitten on the food it had at the shelter or breeder for the first week; moving home is stressful enough. Then switch gradually to your chosen food over 7–10 days. At 12 months, move to adult or sterilised cat food in the same slow way.
Common questions about Kitten food
When should a kitten start on kitten food?
Kittens start tasting solid food from about four weeks old. Start with moistened kitten food or pâté and move fully onto solids by eight weeks.
Should a neutered kitten still eat kitten food?
Yes, growth continues, so stay on kitten food but watch the portions. Some brands also offer recipes for sterilised kittens.
Can I give my kitten cow’s milk?
No. Most cats cannot digest lactose and may get diarrhoea. If needed, use a milk replacer made for kittens.