Kitten Feeding Schedule: A Complete Guide for Every Stage

Introduction

Feeding your kitten properly is crucial for its growth and development. A well-balanced diet and a consistent feeding schedule ensure that your kitten gets the necessary nutrients to thrive. In this guide, we break down the ideal feeding schedule for kittens at different ages, recommended food types, and feeding tips.

Newborn to 4 Weeks: Milk-Only Diet

What to Feed:

• Mother’s milk (best option)
• Kitten formula (if the mother is absent)

Feeding Schedule:

• Newborn to 1 week: Every 2-3 hours (8-12 feedings per day)
• 1-2 weeks: Every 3 hours (7-10 feedings per day)
• 2-3 weeks: Every 4-5 hours (6-8 feedings per day)
• 3-4 weeks: Every 5-6 hours (5-6 feedings per day)

Feeding Tips:

• Use a kitten-specific bottle for formula feeding.
• Keep kittens warm as they cannot regulate their body temperature.
• Never feed cow’s milk as it can cause digestive issues.

4 to 8 Weeks: Weaning Phase

What to Feed:

• High-quality kitten wet food
• Kitten milk replacement (gradually reducing formula)

Feeding Schedule:

• 4-5 weeks: 4-5 small meals per day (gradually introduce wet food)
• 6-8 weeks: 3-4 meals per day (increase wet food, reduce formula)

Feeding Tips:

• Start mixing wet food with formula to ease transition.
• Offer shallow dishes to encourage independent eating.
• Provide fresh water at all times.

8 to 12 Weeks: Solid Food Transition

What to Feed:

• High-quality wet and dry kitten food

Feeding Schedule:

• 3 meals per day (balanced portions of wet and dry food)

Feeding Tips:

• Introduce a mix of wet and dry food to support digestion and hydration.
• Avoid adult cat food; kittens require more protein and fat.

3 to 6 Months: Growth Stage

What to Feed:

• Kitten-specific wet and dry food

Feeding Schedule:

• 3 meals per day

Feeding Tips:

• Monitor weight gain and adjust portions accordingly.
• Begin introducing a feeding routine with set mealtimes.

6 to 12 Months: Transition to Adult Feeding

What to Feed:

• Kitten food transitioning to adult cat food

Feeding Schedule:

• 2-3 meals per day

Feeding Tips:

• Slowly transition to adult cat food around 12 months.
• Provide fresh water at all times.
• Consult your vet about portion sizes based on breed and activity level.

Final Thoughts

A proper feeding schedule ensures your kitten grows into a healthy adult cat. Always choose high-quality food, maintain a consistent schedule, and monitor your kitten’s health and weight. If you have concerns about your kitten’s diet, consult your veterinarian for personalized advice.