• Mother's milk (ideal and preferred)
• Kitten milk replacer (KMR) (essential for orphaned kittens)
• Avoid cow's milk (can cause severe digestive upset and diarrhea)

Feeding Schedule:

• Feed every 2-3 hours, including overnight.
• This equates to 8-12 feedings per day.
• Gentle stimulation is required after each feeding to aid elimination.

Recommended Kitten Milk Replacer Brands:

4 to 8 Weeks (The Weaning Phase)

The Transition Process:

• Begin introducing high-quality wet kitten food.
• Create a "gruel" by mixing the wet food with kitten formula.
• Gradually reduce the liquid content over several weeks.
• Maintain a frequent feeding schedule.

Feeding Schedule:

• 4-6 small meals per day.
• Offer free access to the gruel mixture.
• Closely monitor for consistent weight gain.

Food Preparation Tips:

• Slightly warm the food to enhance aroma and appeal.
• Aim for an oatmeal-like consistency.
• Prepare fresh for each feeding and promptly remove uneaten portions.

8 Weeks to 6 Months (Rapid Growth Phase)

Feeding Schedule:

• 8-12 weeks: 4 measured meals per day.
• 3-6 months: 3 scheduled meals per day.

Critical Nutritional Needs:

• High Protein: 30-40% (dry matter basis) for muscle development.
• High Fat: 20-30% for concentrated energy.
• DHA: An omega-3 fatty acid crucial for brain and vision development.
• Calcium & Phosphorus: In the correct ratio (approx. 1.2:1) for healthy bone growth.

6 to 12 Months (Adolescent Phase)

Feeding Schedule:

• 2-3 meals per day.
• Begin transitioning toward adult portion sizes.
• Monitor body condition score closely.

Nutritional Adjustments:

• Caloric density may need slight reduction as growth rate slows.
• Continue with a "growth" or "all-life-stages" formula.
• Metabolism changes post-spay/neuter often require portion control.

Choosing the Right Kitten Food

Wet Food vs. Dry Food: A Balanced View

Advantages of Wet Food:

• Higher moisture content promotes hydration and urinary tract health.
• Typically higher in animal-based protein.
• Softer texture is easier for small kittens to eat and digest.
• Generally less processed than dry kibble.

Advantages of Dry Food:

• Convenient for measured feeding and can be used in puzzle toys.
• More cost-effective and has a longer shelf life.
• May provide minimal dental abrasion (though not a substitute for dental care).

Our Recommended Approach:

• Utilize primarily wet food for optimal hydration and nutrition.
• Supplement with a small amount of high-quality dry kibble for enrichment and grazing, if desired.
• Never feed only dry food to very young kittens.
• Introduce various textures gradually.

Top Kitten Food Brands for 2026

Premium & Veterinary-Recommended Brands:

Quality Budget-Friendly Options:

What to Look For on the Label

Essential Nutrients:

• Protein: Minimum 30% on a dry matter basis (animal sources preferred).
• Fat: 20-30% for energy.
• DHA: Listed in ingredients (e.g., fish oil).
• Taurine: An essential amino acid for heart and eye health.
• Calcium & Phosphorus: Balanced for skeletal development.

The AAFCO Statement:

• Crucial: The label must state: "Formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Cat Food Nutrient Profiles for growth."
• Alternatively: "Complete and balanced nutrition for all life stages."

Detailed Feeding Schedules by Age

0-4 Weeks (Orphaned Kittens)

Schedule:

• Week 1: Feed every 2 hours, around the clock.
• Week 2: Feed every 3 hours.
• Weeks 3-4: Feed every 4 hours.

Amount Guidelines:

• Approximately 8 ml of formula per ounce of body weight per day.
• Divide this total daily amount into the scheduled feedings.
• Amounts will increase steadily as the kitten grows.

4-8 Weeks (Weaning Schedule)

8-12 Weeks

Schedule: 4 meals per day. Portions:

• Wet: 1/2 to 1 can (3 oz can) per meal.
• Dry: 1/4 to 1/3 cup per meal. Always adjust based on individual kitten's body condition and appetite.

Sample Daily Schedule:

• 7:00 AM: Breakfast
• 12:00 PM: Lunch
• 5:00 PM: Dinner
• 10:00 PM: Bedtime snack

3-6 Months

Schedule: 3 meals per day. Portion Guidelines:

• Wet Food: Approximately 1 can (5.5 oz) per 3-4 lbs of body weight daily, split across meals.
• Dry Food: 1/3 to 1/2 cup per meal.
• Weigh your kitten weekly to guide adjustments.

6-12 Months

Schedule: 2-3 meals per day. Portion Guidelines:

• Begin aligning portions with anticipated adult maintenance needs.
• Critical: Monitor body condition score closely.
• Reduce portions by 10-20% after spaying/neutering, as metabolism slows.

Portion Control and Body Condition Scoring

Assessing Your Kitten's Body Condition

Ideal Condition (Score 3/5):

• Ribs are easily felt with a slight fat covering.
• A visible waist is seen behind the ribs when viewed from above.
• An abdominal tuck is present when viewed from the side.

Signs of Overweight:

• Ribs are difficult to feel under a fat layer.
• No visible waist; back appears broad.
• Obvious fat deposits on the belly and base of tail.
• Action: Slightly decrease portion sizes.

Signs of Underweight:

• Ribs, spine, and hip bones are prominent and visible.
• No palpable fat.
• Severe abdominal tuck.
• Action: Increase portions and consult a veterinarian.

Expected Weight Gain Milestones

• Birth: 3-4 oz
• 1 Week: 5-7 oz
• 2 Weeks: 8-12 oz
• 4 Weeks: ~1 lb
• 3 Months: ~3 lbs
• 6 Months: ~6 lbs
• 12 Months: Reaches adult weight (varies significantly by breed).

Special Considerations

Large Breed Kittens (e.g., Maine Coon, Ragdoll)

• May require a "growth" formula for up to 18-24 months.
• Monitor for rapid growth-related joint issues.
• Consult your vet about appropriate joint support supplements.

Small Breed Kittens (e.g., Singapura, Munchkin)

• May reach maturity slightly faster.
• Require smaller, more frequent meals to prevent hypoglycemia.
• Still need the high nutrient density of kitten-specific food.

Orphaned or Foster Kittens

• Strict adherence to bottle-feeding schedules is non-negotiable.
• Maintaining warmth is as critical as feeding.
• Require manual stimulation for urination/defecation after each meal.
• Early, gentle human socialization is vital.

Transitioning to Adult Food

When:

• Most Cats: Begin between 10-12 months of age.
• Large Breeds: May wait until 12-18 months.

The 7-10 Day Transition Method:

1. Days 1-2: 75% kitten food / 25% adult food.
2. Days 3-4: 50% kitten food / 50% adult food.
3. Days 5-6: 25% kitten food / 75% adult food.
4. Day 7+: 100% adult food.

Troubleshooting Common Feeding Issues

Diarrhea

Potential Causes: Sudden diet change, overfeeding, parasites, infection. Management:

• Offer a bland diet (e.g., boiled chicken breast and white rice).
• Add a kitten-safe probiotic.
• Ensure ample hydration.
• See a vet if it persists beyond 24 hours or if kitten is lethargic.

Constipation

Potential Causes: Dehydration, lack of dietary fiber, hairballs. Management:

• Increase water intake (add water to wet food, use a fountain).
• Add 1/4 teaspoon of plain canned pumpkin (not pie filling) to food.
• Consult your veterinarian for persistent cases.

Refusing to Eat

This is an EMERGENCY if: The kitten hasn't eaten for 24 hours, is lethargic, vomiting, or has diarrhea. Kittens can develop life-threatening hypoglycemia quickly. Possible Causes: Illness, stress, food aversion, dental pain.

Supplements and Treats

Supplements

• General Rule: Not necessary if feeding a high-quality, AAFCO-compliant commercial diet.
• Consider Only With Veterinary Advice: For homemade diets, specific health conditions, or joint support in large breeds.

Treats

• Golden Rule: Treats should comprise less than 10% of total daily caloric intake.
• Excellent Choices:
  • Freeze-dried single-protein treats (chicken, salmon).
  • Tiny pieces of cooked, unseasoned chicken or turkey.
  • Commercial kitten treats.
  • Hydrating puree treats (e.g., Churu).

Estimated Monthly Feeding Costs (2026)

Premium Diet (Wet Food Primary):

• Wet Food: $65 - $110
• Dry Food: $22 - $35
• Treats & Supplements: $15 - $25
• Total: ~$100 - $170

Mid-Range Balanced Diet:

• Wet Food: $45 - $70
• Dry Food: $18 - $28
• Treats: $10 - $18
• Total: ~$70 - $115

Budget-Conscious Diet:

• Wet Food: $35 - $55
• Dry Food: $12 - $22
• Treats: $5 - $12
• Total: ~$50 - $90

Prices are estimates and vary by location, brand, and retailer.

Conclusion

Investing in proper kitten nutrition is an investment in a lifetime of health. By following age-appropriate feeding schedules, selecting high-quality food, and vigilantly monitoring your kitten's body condition, you provide the essential foundation for robust growth, a strong immune system, and long-term vitality.

Remember, each kitten is an individual. Use this guide as a framework, but always be prepared to adjust based on your kitten's unique needs in consultation with your veterinarian. With dedicated care and optimal nutrition, your kitten will flourish into a healthy and joyful adult cat.

Continue Your Kitten Care Journey:

• The Best Kitten Food of 2026: Reviews & Buyer's Guide
• Complete Kitten Care: Your First Year Checklist
• Optimal Timing: When to Spay or Neuter Your Kitten
• Essential Kitten Vaccination Schedule & Guide