Kitten Feeding Basics for New Owners

Start with what your kitten already eats

One of the most common questions I hear from new families is what to feed a kitten. The easiest answer is to start with the food your kitten is already eating. Kittens at TMZ go home with a sample of their food, and keeping it the same for the first days helps avoid an upset stomach. Ask us which food your kitten has been eating and buy a small bag before you pick up.

Choose a complete food made for kittens

Kittens grow quickly and need a food labeled as complete and balanced for growth or for all life stages. Check the label for a statement that it meets the standards of a recognized feed authority such as AAFCO. A mix of wet and dry food works well for many cats. Wet food adds water to the diet, and dry food can help with tartar. Your veterinarian can recommend a brand that suits your kitten.

How often to feed

Young kittens have small stomachs and do best with several small meals a day. Many owners offer three or four meals for a young kitten and then reduce to two or three as it grows. Measure the food according to the label and your vet's advice rather than leaving a full bowl out all day. Measured meals help prevent overweight cats, which matters for sturdy breeds like British Shorthairs and for small-framed Munchkins.

Changing foods safely

If you want to switch foods, do it slowly over about a week. Start with a small amount of the new food mixed into the old, and gradually increase it. Sudden changes can cause loose stools. If your kitten has diarrhea that lasts more than a day or two, or any vomiting, call your veterinarian.

Water, bowls and feeding place

Fresh water should always be available. Many cats prefer wide, shallow dishes or a flat plate because deep bowls can touch their whiskers. Clean bowls daily. Put food and water away from the litter box, in a quiet area where your kitten feels safe.

Treats and table food

Treats are fine in moderation, but they should make up only a small part of the day's food. Avoid giving milk, onions, garlic, chocolate, grapes and raisins, which can harm cats. Ask your veterinarian about any human food you are unsure of.

Signs of a healthy appetite

A healthy kitten is usually eager to eat, playful after meals and has regular, formed stools. A kitten that refuses food for a day, is very lethargic or vomits repeatedly needs prompt veterinary attention. Keep your vet's number handy.

A sample day for a young kitten

Every kitten is different, and your veterinarian will guide the amounts, but a typical day looks like this. Offer a small meal in the morning, another at midday, one in the late afternoon and a last one before bed. Keep play sessions before meals so your kitten eats with a good appetite and rests afterwards. Make sure fresh water is always available.

As your kitten grows, your vet will tell you when to cut back to fewer meals. Watching the body shape is better than watching the scale: you should be able to feel the ribs under a light layer of padding.

Weight and growth checks

Weigh your kitten regularly in the first months and keep notes to share at veterinary visits. Steady growth is the goal. Growth that stalls, or weight gain that is too fast, is something to discuss with your vet. Remember that British Shorthairs are slow to mature, reaching full size around age three, so patience matters.

Hydration and wet food

Cats are not big drinkers, and wet food is an easy way to add water. A water fountain can encourage some cats to drink more. Place several water bowls around the house, and keep them clean. If your kitten seems dehydrated, with dry gums or sluggishness, call your veterinarian.

Picky eaters and food boredom

Some kittens go through phases of refusing food. Warming wet food slightly, serving smaller amounts or trying a different texture can help. Do not change foods constantly, though, because frequent changes can upset the stomach. If your kitten refuses several meals in a row, call your vet.

Feeding multiple pets

If you have other animals, feed them separately so the kitten gets its own kitten food and the older pets do not eat it. Kitten food is richer and can cause weight gain in adult cats. Dogs can get sick from cat food, so keep bowls out of reach. Our guide to introducing a kitten to your dog or cat has more on sharing a home.

When to talk to your vet

Ask your veterinarian at the first visit for feeding amounts, a brand recommendation and a plan for moving to adult food. Bring the name of the food your kitten has been eating so the vet can advise you well.

Feeding different breeds

British Shorthairs are slow to mature and tend to gain weight easily, so watch portions. Scottish Folds and Straights are moderately active and do well on measured meals. Munchkins are energetic but also benefit from measured feeding. Our breed pages for British Shorthairs, Scottish Folds and Munchkins have more breed-specific care notes.

Have questions about your kitten's diet? Contact us or read our FAQ.