What should I feed my new kitten?

Kittens have rapidly changing nutritional needs in their first year of life — especially in the first six months. Knowing what to feed your kitten and when sets the foundation for a long, healthy life.

Feeding Kittens in the First Six Months

After birth, kittens nurse from their mother, whose rich milk helps them double in weight by 14 days old. Around four weeks, mothers begin weaning — this is when to start introducing solid food. Make sure they have the right food and water bowls sized for small kittens.

Start With Wet Cat Food

Mix a small amount of kitten-formula wet food into their water dish. Gradually increase the wet food and decrease the water over 2–3 weeks until they're eating only canned food. If they're slow to take to solid food, supplement with formula to ensure adequate calories.

Transitioning to Kibble

If you plan to feed dry food, mix kibble with water to form a slush, then gradually reduce the water over 2–3 weeks. Tip: Kittens have small mouths, teeth, and stomachs — feed 3–4 smaller meals per day rather than 1–2 large ones.

Feeding Kittens From Six to 12 Months

At six months, growth slows and your kitten will start to look like an adult — but they still need kitten food. You can begin feeding slightly larger portions less frequently, while being careful not to overfeed. For the full transition timeline, see our guide on how to switch your cat's food.

Wet or Dry Food?

Cats don't get bored with their food — that's a human trait. As long as you're feeding a nutrient-dense kitten formula, your cat will be content. Consistency is better than variety; constantly changing food can cause digestive upset. You can occasionally treat your kitten to wet food if they usually eat kibble, but keep changes gradual. See our article on wet vs. dry cat food for more guidance.

Key Nutrients to Look For

When shopping for kitten food, check the label for these essentials:

• Animal-based proteins: The primary ingredient should be a named animal protein (chicken, turkey, salmon, etc.).
• Omega fatty acids: Linoleic acid and other omega fatty acids nourish healthy skin, a shiny coat, and support cell growth.
• Taurine: An essential amino acid critical for heart function, vision, digestion, and reproduction. Kittens can't produce enough on their own and must get it from food.

Tip: Your vet is also your kitten's nutrition specialist — consult them if you're unsure what or how much to feed.

What to Do if Your Kitten Is a Picky Eater

If your kitten isn't finishing meals, consider: Are you changing their diet too quickly or too often? Is their eating area crowded or stressful? Is their litter box too close to their food? All of these can affect appetite. Keep their feeding area calm and separate from the litter box. If unusual eating behavior persists, consult your vet — the first year is the most critical phase of your cat's development.