Kitten feeding guide

Why do kittens need special food?

Kittens grow quickly in their first year and need a nutrient-rich diet to fuel their energy, build strong muscles and bones, and support healthy development. Adult cat food simply doesn't meet these demands.

High-quality kitten food should provide:

• High protein for muscle growth
• Healthy fats for energy
• Calcium and phosphorus for strong bones and teeth
• DHA (an omega-3 fatty acid) for brain and vision support

How much food should a kitten eat per day?

Kittens need more frequent meals than adult cats to support their rapid growth:

• 8–12 weeks: a minimum of 4 meals daily
• 3–6 months: no fewer than 3 meals a day
• 6–12 months: 2 to 3 meals each day, at a minimum

On average, kittens eat 3–4 pouches of wet food per day, depending on age, size, and activity level. Always follow the feeding guidelines on the packaging and consult your vet for personalised advice.

What is the best food to feed a kitten?

There’s no single answer, but the most suitable kitten food should be clearly labelled for “kitten” or “growth”.

In general, kitten food should be:

• Nutritionally complete and balanced
• Rich in animal proteins like chicken, turkey, or fish
• Free from artificial colours and fillers
• Vet-recommended

Wet or dry cat food for kittens?

Wet Food for Kittens

• Helps with hydration and is easier for kittens to chew
• Opt for recipes with high level of animal protein and no added sugars

Dry Food for Kittens

• Supports dental health and is easy to store
• Choose small kibble that's high in protein and fat

Mixed feeding (a combination of wet and dry food) can be a great way to ensure variety, hydration, and balanced nutrition.

Kitten food: What to look for

When it comes to your kitten's diet, quality is key. That's why IAMS kitten food is specially developed to support healthy growth and development from day one.

Formulated with high-quality ingredients, our recipes are:

• Made with animal source of protein - like chicken or turkey -as the first ingredient
• Enriched with DHA and taurine to help develop brain, vision, and a strong heart
• Free from artificial colours, flavours, and fillers
• For a healthy digestion a tailored fibre blend including prebiotics and beet pulp

With IAMS, you're giving your kitten nutrition that's not only complete and balanced but also tailored to their unique needs in the earliest and most important stage of life.

When should kittens stop eating kitten food?

Most kittens should stay on kitten food until they’re around 12 months old. This is when their growth over, and they’re ready for the lower calorie content of adult cat food.

Avoid switching too early—kitten food is specially formulated to support healthy growth. If in doubt, consult your vet before transitioning.

Transitioning to adult cat food

When it’s time to switch, do so gradually over 4 days to avoid upsetting your cat’s stomach:

• Start by mixing a small amount of adult food with their usual kitten food
• Increase the ratio of adult food each day
• Watch for any signs of digestive issues or refusal to eat and adjust if needed

Conclusion: The right kitten food sets the foundation for a healthy life

Feeding your kitten a balanced, species-appropriate diet is key to healthy growth, strong immunity, and overall well-being.
Choose high-quality food tailored to your kitten’s needs—and explore our full range of kitten food to give your little feline the best possible start in life.