What Do Kittens Eat?

Kittens are growing and require more nutrients than old cats.

Their basic dietary needs are:

• Energy (calories)
• Protein
• Fat
• Minerals (calcium, phosphorus, etc.)

Pet owners should feed newborn kittens (under three weeks old) with breast milk or commercial kitten food. It is essential that kittens solely drink breast milk or eat commercial cat food because different species have significantly different milk characteristics, and kittens require a specific balance of nutrition. For example, certain amino acids that cats need, such as taurine, are not present in dog or goat milk. Without taurine, cats have severe heart conditions and blindness.

After the kitten reaches 3-4 weeks of age, pet owners can give commercially manufactured wet or dry food to feed the kitten. Foods must state that they are approved to give to kittens or all life stages. A food endorsed for all life stages means the food contains the higher nutrients your kitten needs. Pet owners should not feed kittens adult feline food as they do not contain enough fat, protein, or minerals for growth needs.

Your vet Wichita, KS is a valuable source of information about your pet’s diet and nutritional needs.