You have a new kitten in the home, now how do you feed him?
Once your kitten is weaned, he is solely dependent on you to provide a nutritious, healthy diet that is balanced for his development and growth. Kittens grow rather quickly, and require a lot higher levels of energy and vitamins, up to three to four times the amount needed for an adult cat.
- What should I feed my kitten? Premium growth kitten food is specially designed for kittens and it is the best way to make sure your kitten receives the right amount of protein, fat, vitamins and minerals in the right proportions for growth.
- There are many brands available; make sure it says kitten food on the label. Kitten food is available in dry and canned varieties. You can also feed your kitten a mixture of both dry and canned but make sure you adhere to the feeding guidelines on the label. Kittens can be started out on canned food from three to four weeks of age while they are weaning. They should be fully weaned at six to eight weeks of age.
- How much do I feed my kitten? You should offer your kitten as much food as he would like to eat to make sure he is getting adequate intake of nutrients. He is not likely to overeat at this stage in his life.
Kittens can be fed at least three times a day, until they reach four to five months old, then reduce to two feedings a day by the time they are eight to nine months old.
This paves the way for you and your kitten to have a healthy and happy life together.