“How often do I need to feed a kitten?” and “What’s the right amount of food should I give my kitten?” are common questions we all ask when getting ready for our new and tiny family member.
Here, you’ll get the answers and learn about the problems that come with not giving enough or giving too much food to your little fur ball.
How Much Should You Feed Your Kitten?
It’s essential to give the right amount of food to your kitten. Kittens are always hungry and will eat whatever you give them.
If you give them too much, it can make them sick and possibly cause them to become overweight. But if you give them too little, they won’t have enough energy and nutrients to grow properly. So it’s really important to find the right balance!
Most kitten food packages have instructions on how much to feed them. It’s best to follow those instructions as closely as you can. Here’s a chart that shows how much food your kitten needs at different ages to stay healthy and strong:
| Age | How Often Each Day | How Much Each Day |
|---|---|---|
| 8 to 12 Weeks | 3-4 times | 250 to 360 calories |
| 12 to 16 Weeks | 3-4 times | 250 to 360 calories |
| 4 to 6 Months | 2-3 times | 250-420 calories |
| 6 to 12 Months | Twice | 330-580 calories |
| 1 Year + | Twice | 160-315 calories |
Remember, the chart is just a basic guide. The amount you feed your kitten depends on its size, weight, breed, and the type of food you use.
Always check the instructions on the food bag or ask your vet for advice tailored to your kitten.
As a general rule, your kitten needs about 60-65 calories per pound of body weight each day. Keep an eye on your kitten’s weight as they grow fast. You want to feed them enough to stay healthy and active, but not too much that they become overweight and lazy.
Read Also: What Should I Do If My Kitten is Not Eating?
How Often Should You Feed Your Kitten?
When it comes to feeding kittens, the frequency is as important as the quantity. You want to give them enough food without overfeeding them.
- From 8 to 12 weeks old, it’s best to feed them three or four small meals a day. This helps their small stomachs get a steady supply of nutrients so they have energy all day.
- From 3 to 6 months old, you can reduce it to three meals a day.
- From 6 months to a year old, you can feed them twice a day. By this age, their stomachs are big enough to last between breakfast and dinner.
When your kitten turns a year old, they’re an adult and can be fed like an adult cat.
Read Also: Stages of Kitten Development: First Weeks & Months
What to Feed Your Kitten
Your kitten’s dietary needs are different from those of an adult cat. To help them grow strong and healthy, their food usually has:
- More Protein.
- More calories per cup.
- Higher levels of certain nutrients like calcium.
Young cats need these extra nutrients for growth, including more animal-based protein and increased calcium and phosphorus.
Your new kitten will probably be very energetic and play a lot, so their food should provide the energy they need for both playtime and growth.
Read Also: How to Feed and Care For a Newborn Kitten With no Mother
Should You Feed Your Kitten Wet Food or Dry Food?
Both wet and dry cat food are available for kittens, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. To choose the best option for your kitten, consult your vet for their recommendation. Here are the pros and cons of each:
Wet cat food has more moisture, which can help keep kittens hydrated and support urinary tract health. However, it tends to stick to teeth more, potentially leading to dental issues.
Dry cat food is convenient in multi-cat households and can help clean teeth. However, some cats may overeat and become overweight, leading to various health problems like arthritis, heart issues, high blood pressure, breathing problems, or diabetes.
What Happens When You Overfeed or Underfeed Your Kitten?
Some cat owners believe it’s okay to feed young kittens as much as they want because they’re growing, but that’s not true. Overfeeding can lead to bad eating habits, obesity, and diabetes. It can also cause digestive problems like nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting.
On the other hand, not giving enough food can also harm your kitten. Signs of malnourishment include weakness, hair loss, poor bone and dental health, reduced appetite, low immunity, sensitivity to food, and a thin body.
It’s not just about the portion size; you also need to make sure your kitten’s food has enough fat, protein, vitamins, and minerals to meet their needs as carnivores.
Also Read: Recognizing The Signs of Illness in Kittens – 6 Common Health Issues
Should You Give Your Kitten Supplements?
Supplements are like daily vitamins for your kitten and can boost their overall health. Fish oil supplements may be helpful for kittens with skin issues, obesity, or special dietary requirements. Your veterinarian can advise you on whether your kitten needs supplements tailored to their specific needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 2 meals enough for a kitten?
feeding a kitten twice a day is recommended for kittens aged 6 months to a year. This feeding schedule is suggested as their stomachs are typically large enough to handle longer periods between meals.
Is it OK to only feed a kitten wet food?
Feeding a kitten only wet food can be okay as long as the wet food provides all the necessary nutrients for their growth and development.
Is it OK to feed kittens once a day?
Feeding kittens once a day is generally not recommended, as kittens have smaller stomachs and higher energy needs compared to adult cats.
Conclusion
In conclusion, feeding your kitten the right amount and frequency of food is crucial for their health and development. Remember to follow feeding guidelines provided on kitten food packages, consult your veterinarian for personalized advice, and monitor your kitten’s weight as they grow. Providing a balanced diet with appropriate nutrients, whether through wet or dry food, is essential. Avoid overfeeding or underfeeding, as both can have negative consequences on your kitten’s well-being.
