Best baby cat food

10 Best Kitten Foods (2022)

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The right kitten food will keep your cat healthy and help it grow and develop properly. Read on to see the best kitten food options.

Kittens need special care and attention to develop proper social and physical skills. While behavioral training is important, so is feeding them the right food. A healthy diet will help mature a kitten’s body as well as its brain. Many cat foods that are specially formulated for kittens contain ingredients that are higher in fat and calories to meet your kitten’s nutritional needs.

We rounded up our picks for the best kitten food to help you make the right choice for your kitty. The options below include a mixture of wet food and kibble so you can determine which type better suits your kitten’s diet.

10 Best Kitten Foods

For Variety: Fancy Feast Tender Feast Variety Pack
For Growth: Iams ProActive Health Kitten Dry Cat Food
For Best Texture: Royal Canin Mother & Babycat Ultra-Soft Mousse
For High Protein: Purina ONE Healthy Kitten Formula Dry Cat Food
For Indoor Cats: Hill’s Science Diet Indoor Kitten Dry Cat Food
For a Flavor Mix: Meow Mix Kitten Li’l Nibbles Dry Cat Food
For Development: Blue Buffalo Healthy Growth Kitten Cat Food
For Portion Control: Iams Perfect Portions Healthy Kitten Chicken Recipe
For High-Quality Ingredients: Wellness CORE Grain-Free Kitten Formula Dry Cat Food
For a Flavor Medley: Hill’s Kitten Healthy Cuisine Roasted Chicken & Rice Medley

For Variety: Fancy Feast Tender Feast Variety Pack

Flavors: chicken, salmon, turkey, ocean whitefish
Type: wet
Size: 24-pack of 3-ounce cans

If you like to mix it up for your kitten, this variety pack provides 24 cans of four different wet food flavors. All four are made with real milk, ensuring your cat will get the calcium it needs, and all use poultry or fish as the number-one ingredient.

Furthermore, this kitten food features essential vitamins and minerals that help promote growth and provide a balanced diet for your pet.

What Other Pet Owners Are Saying

“I have a kitty, and I wasn’t sure if she would like chicken or turkey or fish. [This variety pack] gave me the opportunity to check all of them with her to see what’s her favorite one. She loves the salmon, and I’m going to order more of this product! I’m so satisfied with my order.” —Saba via Chewy

“When I think of affordable canned kitten food, Fancy Feast is the first to come to mind. I bought this variety pack before my new boy had even come home, and he was a big fan once he finally got through each flavor. All of the flavors ended up with an empty bowl, however the whitefish can gets eaten a little slower than the rest. I prefer to feed limited fish in general, and fish is listed in all four of these flavors, even the chicken and turkey cans, but I can’t pass up how inexpensive this pack of 24 cans of Fancy Feast is! I’ll be keeping this in his rotation for a little while longer until he reaches adulthood.” —Meg88 via Chewy

For Growth: Iams ProActive Health Kitten Dry Cat Food

Flavors: chicken
Type: dry
Sizes Available: 3.5-pound bag, 7-pound bag, 16-pound bag

This dry kitten food is formulated to help kittens grow and establish good digestive health. Chicken is the top ingredient. It also has omega-3 DHA, which aids brain development, plus other helpful nutrients, such as vitamin E.

This food is available in a few different sizes with bags as large as 16 pounds, making it an excellent choice for those buying food for multiple kittens at once. It also has small, bite-sized pieces that make it easy for kittens to eat.

What Other Pet Owners Are Saying

“My (now) 7-month-old kitten LOVES these crunchies. I have tried several different brands of kitten food, and this is the only one she consistently eats. Her vet approves of the diet and was pleased with the kitten’s growth.” —Linny via Chewy

“I originally had my new kitten on another kitten food, but he seemed to get the runs from it and seemed to never get full. I switched him over to this, and he has no problems with it. It seems to fill his belly better, and no more runs. It would be better if there was a seal on the bag to keep it more fresh after [it’s] opened.” —puppy12345678 via Chewy

For Best Texture: Royal Canin Mother & Babycat Ultra-Soft Mousse

Flavors: chicken
Type: wet
Sizes: 24-pack of 3-ounce cans; 24-pack of 3-ounce cans, bundle of 2; 24-pack of 5. 1-ounce cans; 24-pack of 5.1-ounce cans, bundle of 2

This wet kitten food has a fluffy, mousse-like texture that makes it easy for kittens to eat and helps them transition from milk to solid food as they grow. It’s also an effective choice for cats that are pregnant or nursing.

Furthermore, this food has DHA that helps kittens’ brains develop and antioxidants that strengthen their immune systems. This cat food also comes in multiple can and pack sizes for cat owners who have multiple pets or want to stock up.

What Other Pet Owners Are Saying

“We’ve used this to [wean] nursing foster kittens and for expectant and nursing mama cats very successfully. This time we used it to put weight on a kitty who’s had a lot of mouth issues, and it’s worked well. He’s bulking up, and his coat is improved. Also he loves it.” —Meyow via Chewy

“Very nice, soft texture for kittens as they wean. Creamier than a lot of the other pates. They seem to like the flavor, but the price is high so I gave it 4 stars.” —Heather via Chewy

For High Protein: Purina ONE Healthy Kitten Formula Dry Cat Food

Flavors: chicken
Type: dry
Sizes: 3.5-pound bag, 7-pound bag, 16-pound bag

This kitten food is high in animal protein, which helps support cats’ growing muscles. In addition to using real chicken as its main ingredient, this dry food is formulated with DHA and four antioxidants that promote brain development and a robust immune system.

This food also uses calcium to support teeth growth and features vitamins E and A. It is available in multiple bag sizes, with the largest at 16 pounds.

What Other Pet Owners Are Saying

“Both of my kittens (indoor/10 months old) love this! Their fur is so soft and shiny, and it does not make them vomit. I even have to keep it away from my two dogs, or they will try to nibble on it. I’ll definitely switch to the adult version when it’s time. I’ve always had great luck with Purina brand!” —TillysMom via Chewy

“I wish it didn’t contain poultry as most cats have allergic dermatitis when they eat poultry. But since I was unable to find one without poultry I followed my vet’s recommendation to try Purina kitten food. My kitten can’t get enough of it. He also seems to have gained a little weight since starting it. Which is good because he was found outside and is a little thin.” —Groominggirl via Chewy

For Indoor Cats: Hill’s Science Diet Indoor Kitten Dry Cat Food

Flavors: chicken
Type: dry
Sizes: 3.5-pound bag, 7-pound bag

This kitten food is specially formulated for indoor cats, featuring high protein levels to establish muscle mass. It also contains natural prebiotic fiber that reduces hairballs and makes for an easier litter box cleanup.

Natural DHA from fish oil helps support brain and eye development, which is great for cats that are up to a year old or for adult cats that are nursing or pregnant. This food does not have any artificial flavors or preservatives in its ingredient list, so you can feel good about feeding it to your developing kitten.

What Other Pet Owners Are Saying

“I love and care for six kitties. They get the best of everything; this is why I feed them Hill’s Science Diet Indoor Kitten Dry Food. It gives them all the nutrients that active kitties need, and the taste is a treat to them. They are completely satisfied as evidenced by their empty trays after their meals.” —Lorrie via Chewy

“Our kitten loves this food. I switched her from a cheaper brand when I noticed it was not agreeing with her tummy. Hill’s makes her breath smell pretty stinky, but it’s worth it since she really eats this up!” —McGrumps via Chewy

For a Flavor Mix: Meow Mix Kitten Li’l Nibbles Dry Cat Food

Flavors: chicken, ocean fish, salmon, turkey
Type: dry
Size: 3. 15-pound bag

This unique dry kitten food has four different flavors mixed into one protein-rich bag, so your cat will get something new in every bite. It features poultry and seafood flavors in small, bite-size pieces.

It is also made with ingredients such as fatty acids and DHA plus vitamins and minerals that your cat needs to grow its muscles and mind.

What Other Pet Owners Are Saying

“I bought this food for some feral kittens I’ve been feeding and found that the older cats liked it too. Whether it is the flavor or the tiny, bite sized pieces of food, they always eat it all—unlike some other dry foods I’ve tried. The kittens are growing and thriving. I think this food offers what they need.” —kls62 via Chewy

“I’ve tried the spendy foods, the veterinarian recommended foods … kittens prefer Meow Mix over all of those. Only wish there were other flavor options in the kitten formula because my kittens like the adult version of their [sister’s] food even better than their own. ” —Diane via Chewy

For Development: Blue Buffalo Healthy Growth Kitten Cat Food

Flavors: chicken
Type: dry
Sizes: 3-pound bag; 5-pound bag; 7-pound bag; 7-pound bag, bundle of 2

This kitten food includes Blue Buffalo’s LifeSource bits, which feature a combination of selected antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins. These nutrients come from expert-chosen natural sources that will satisfy your kitten’s needs so it can develop strong health in its early-life stages.

This food uses deboned chicken for high-quality protein and flavor and features DHA, ARA, and choline for brain and eye growth. It is also free of artificial flavors and preservatives.

What Other Pet Owners Are Saying

“I’ve been feeding my only black kitten Gotham Blue Buffalo Healthy Growth since she was 6 weeks old, and the vet always checks her out with a clean bill of health. I like it because of the ingredients. As a result, her coat is always shiny and soft, and mealtime is a breeze because she absolutely loves this stuff.” —LuckyinKy via Chewy

“My cat LOVED this food for almost a year, and so I kept buying it for him. Unfortunately, I recently ordered a bag and it made him throw up every time he ate, and now he refuses it. He may have developed an allergy to it, which is a shame because he really seemed to love it. I do recommend though. It’s a great dry food—even my vet approved!” —tg18 via Chewy

For Portion Control: Iams Perfect Portions Healthy Kitten Chicken Recipe

Flavors: chicken
Type: wet
Size: 24-pack of 2.6-ounce twin trays

This cat food comes in twin packs featuring two pre-portioned servings, so you’ll never have to worry about wasting food. The small portions mean you don’t have to store leftover chicken liver paté in the fridge, which is great for picky eaters that like their food at room temperature.

Besides the convenient packaging, this food offers good nutritional value. It uses a grain-free chicken recipe that your kittens are sure to love, it contains DHA and other healthy nutrients, and it provides hydration for your kitten.

What Other Pet Owners Are Saying

“We tried Iams when our 4-month-old fur baby started to get a little picky with her existing wet food. I’m happy to say she LOVES it. And I love how it comes perfectly portioned for her size appetite so no leftovers in the fridge every day. (She wasn’t a fan of leftovers either since it was chilled). Iams is now on my auto ship list!” —Iams via Chewy

“My kitten would only eat half of a small can of wet food. I was wasting the 2nd half of the can. I was so happy when [I] found these perfect portions specifically for kittens. Now when [I] feed him, he gets a freshly opened portion every time. I only wish there were more flavor choices. Otherwise my little one gobbles it up” —Jakki via Chewy

For High-Quality Ingredients: Wellness CORE Grain-Free Kitten Formula Dry Cat Food

Flavors: turkey
Type: dry
Sizes: 2-pound bag, 5-pound bag

This kitten food is formulated with a 100 percent grain-free recipe that provides calories for kitten growth and turkey and fish for protein that supports muscle development.

In addition, this food uses salmon oil to provide DHA omega-3 fatty acids, plus vitamins, minerals, and essential taurine that help your kitten develop its eyesight and mature its brain. This kitten food is also formulated with ActiCoat probiotic coating, which aids digestion in cats with sensitive stomachs.

What Other Pet Owners Are Saying

“This is the first dry food I got for my kittens, and I’ve had no reason to try anything different. The ingredients are great so I feel good as an owner. My kittens both love it and will gobble it up (though neither seems to be picky when it comes to food). Their coats are super shiny and soft, and one kitten was NOT very soft when I adopted her; I credit the new soft coat to this food and to her getting settled in a home. The cats do smell a bit…chickeny, which is not ideal but fine. Once they’re older the adult CORE foods will for sure be the first new dry foods I try.” —Queenie via Chewy

“This is a very good quality product. The ingredients are what we were looking for in a dry food—no grains, no odd animal byproducts, good quality ingredients. The form factor is small disks. Our two 5-month-old kittens did not care for this product very much—they would eat them, but they preferred another product we had available. I’m not sure if their preference was based on the form factor (the other product was larger disks) or the flavor. The fact our kittens did not like eating this product is why I gave only 4 stars. The product is definitely a great product, but not all kittens will like it.” —JohnTX via Chewy

For a Flavor Medley: Hill’s Kitten Healthy Cuisine Roasted Chicken & Rice Medley

Flavors: chicken and rice
Type: wet
Size: 24-pack of 2.8-ounce cans

This 24-pack of cans contains a chicken and rice medley in a tempting sauce that your kittens may be drawn to.

In addition to its flavor, this food has healthy ingredients to help your kitten grow.

It features taurine to aid with vision and heart function and other key nutrients that support urinary tract health. This canned food is also free from artificial preservatives and flavors.

What Other Pet Owners Are Saying

“My kitten is almost four months old, and I recently switched from Dave’s Natural Cat Food (which is what he had been eating at the shelter) to this, and the difference was immediate. He INHALED this food. The bowl was licked clean, which he has never done before. I also love that you can actually see that it is a chicken stew, and you can physically see all of the ingredients so it doesn’t look like straight mush like some other wet cat foods. The cans are a little smaller so he’s eating 2 cans a day, which can get a little pricey, but it is well worth the expense in my opinion. Highly recommend.” —Ty94 via Chewy

“This food was something that Gracie and Stella’s foster mom was feeding to them. It’s a bit expensive, but since they both love it and didn’t like the first food their foster mom tried for them, I decided I would buy it for them. I’ve had them for a few months now, and they will eat every bite of this every time. I’m hoping they will like the adult version too.” —Julie via Chewy

What to Look For in Kitten Food

Kitten food comes in many different varieties, so it can be difficult to sort through all the options to find food that will be the healthiest and most delicious for your kitten. When buying kitten food, it helps to first examine the following factors:

Ingredients

The first ingredient listed in your kitten food should be meat, such as chicken, turkey, fish, rabbit, or beef. You should also look for ingredients that help kittens’ muscles grow and that develop their immune and nervous systems, such as quality proteins and fats, vitamins, and DHA. Choose foods that aren’t composed of unhealthy fillers that add no nutritional value.

It’s important to note that kittens require more calories per day than adult cats as they grow and mature into their bodies.

Nutritional Elements

In addition to being made with ingredients that help them grow, kitten foods should also be nutritious for your pet. The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) sets standards for pet food nutrition. For young kittens and pregnant and nursing cats, it should contain at least 30 percent crude protein based on dry matter. To calculate the dry matter, subtract the percentage of moisture content listed. Then, divide the crude protein by the dry matter and multiply it by 100.

For example, if the moisture content of a dry kitten food is listed as 10 percent, then the dry matter would be 90. If the crude protein content is 35 percent, you would divide 35 by 90 and then multiply by 100. That means the crude protein content is 39 percent, which meets the requirements for a growing kitten.

High-quality kitten food will also contain a number of other essential nutrients, such as vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, DHA, and taurine.

High grain levels in food may also be something to avoid as it could mean the food contains difficult-to-digest carbohydrates.

Type

Like adult cat food, kitten food can be served either wet or dry. Dry food can be left out for kittens to eat at their leisure and has a long shelf life. However, some dry foods may be difficult for a kitten to eat and bite into.

Wet foods, meanwhile, have a high moisture content and are easier for kittens to eat. Many kittens may shy away from drinking much water, so giving them wet food can be a good way to ensure they stay hydrated. However, wet food can be messy and will spoil quickly once opened. Most vets recommend a mix of wet and dry food for your cat.

Size

You should also be aware of how much food comes in a bag or can and how you should portion it. Some kitten food comes pre-portioned, but if it doesn’t, you’ll want to be careful not to overfeed or underfeed your pet.

Look to feed your kitten between one-fourth and one-half of a cup of food at a time. Try portioning your cat’s food out in advance so you know exactly how much to give at once. If you’re feeding multiple kittens at a time, it may be best to buy food in bulk so you can be sure you don’t run out.

Our Recommendation

Overall, if you’re looking for a dry food option, the Wellness CORE Grain-Free Kitten Formula Dry Cat Food provides a wide range of beneficial nutrients from premium ingredients that can aid with growth and development.

For wet food, the Royal Canin Mother & Babycat Ultra-Soft Mousse is our choice because its soft texture will help them transition to harder food as they get older.

However, the best kitten food depends on what you value the most for your cat, and you may need to try multiple foods to find one that works best. You’ve made a good choice as long as you find a food your kitten likes that has a high nutritional value with natural ingredients.

How We Chose the Top Kitten Foods

We’ve vetted hundreds of products to help you select the top premium pet products for your furry family member.

Before recommending any pet products, we’ve analyzed and reviewed them based on the following factors:

Customer reviews: We read at least 100 customer reviews for every product in our lineup, considering pain points and advantages cited by pet parents.
Ratings: Each product we recommend has a high amount of verified customer ratings on sites such as Chewy and Google and earned high average ratings.
Brand research: We conducted research into each brand to assess its reputation in the pet industry.
Features: We compare products based on their key features, customization options, and other factors related to performance.

Our data points and review content are regularly updated to account for shifts in customer consensus, product availability, and overall quality.

The 9 Best Kitten Foods Of 2022: Unbiased Review

Our Review Process

Our reviews are based on extensive research and, when possible, hands-on testing. Each time you make a purchase through one of our independently-chosen links, we’ll receive a percentage of the proceeds. Read more about how we’re supported here.

Like your kitten himself, the best kitten food packs plenty of energy in a small package. It’s calorie-dense, rich in protein, and loaded with omega-3s to support brain and eye development. But not every food marketed for kittens is worthy of your baby’s bowl.

In this article, we’ll discuss the unique nutritional needs of kittens and help you determine which diet is best for your bundle of joy.

At A Glance: Best Kitten Foods Of 2022

In the comparison table below, we’ve highlighted some of the most important features of each product. You’ll find more detailed information about each product later in the article.

Overall Best

9.8

Picked by 3 people today!

Wellness CORE Kitten Turkey & Chicken Liver Recipe Canned Food

One of the most protein-packed kitten foods on the market
Ultra-soft pate texture is easy for kittens to eat
Calorie-dense recipe to fuel growth and development

Check Price

Runner Up

9.8

Picked by 3 people today!

Instinct by Nature’s Variety Kitten Grain-Free Real Chicken Recipe Canned Food

Rich in animal-based protein from chicken, beef, and salmon
Soft canned food offers palatable texture and hydration
Very low carbohydrate content

Check Price

Best Fresh Food

9. 7

Picked by 25 people today!

Smalls Fresh Ground Other Bird

Single source of high-quality animal protein
Rich in moisture to support your kitten’s hydration
Free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives

Check Price

Best Human-Grade

9.7

Picked by 31 people today!

The Honest Kitchen Grain-Free Chicken Caté (Paté) Wet Cat Food

Chicken as a single source of high-quality animal protein
Free of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives
Rich in moisture to support your kitten’s hydration

ENTER ALLABOUTCATS30 FOR 30% OFF

Best Ethically Sourced

9.7

Picked by 31 people today!

Open Farm Wild-Caught Salmon Dry Food

Wild Pacific salmon as the first ingredient
Supplemented with two concentrated sources of animal protein
Herring and salmon oils for omega fatty acids

Get 5% Off

Budget Pick

7. 9

Picked by 2 people today!

Fancy Feast Kitten Tender Turkey Feast Canned Cat Food

Features high-quality animal protein as the main ingredient
Hydrating canned food with a strong reputation for palatability
One of the most affordable options for kitten food

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Best Mid-Price Pick

8.9

Picked by 2 people today!

Wellness Complete Health Kitten Chicken Entrée Pate Canned Food

Made primarily with animal-based protein sources
Contains menhaden fish oil for DHA
Highly palatable and hydrating canned food

Check Price

Best for Weight Gain

8.0

Picked by 2 people today!

Blue Buffalo Tastefuls Chicken Entrée Kitten Pate Wet Cat Food

Made primarily from nourishing sources of animal protein
Hydrating and highly palatable canned food
Calorie-dense at 122 calories per 3-ounce can

Check Price

Best Dry Kitten Food

7. 5

Picked by 1 people today!

Instinct Original Kitten Grain-Free Recipe Dry Cat Food

Composed of 81% animal ingredients, including animal fat
Calorie-dense to support healthy kitten growth
Contains animal-based omega-3s for eye and brain development

Check Price

Top Picks Explained

Why You Should Trust Us

To write this guide, we started by identifying kittens’ core nutritional needs, reviewing over 181 different cat food brands, reading customer reviews, speaking with market insiders, and testing foods hands-on.

We also consulted 7 veterinarians to get their professional opinion on what makes a great cat food.

Our Veterinary Advisors

Dr. Sarah Wooten, DVM, CVJ
Dr. Chris Vanderhoof, DVM, MPH
Dr. Sarah Reidenbach, DVM
Dr. Chyrle Bonk, DVM
Dr. Jamie Whittenburg, DVM
Dr. Albert Ahn, DVM
Dr. Elizabeth Youens, DVM

At the top of that list is Wellness CORE Natural Grain-Free Turkey & Chicken Liver Pâté. This canned food has everything your kitten needs without excessive carbs, colors, and other additives. It receives positive customer reviews and comes from a trusted company.

Keep reading to learn more about your kitten’s nutritional requirements and how we chose the best kitten foods on the market.

Here’s What We Looked for In the Best Kitten Food

When we asked about his recommendations for the best kitten food, Dr. Chris Vanderhoof, DVM, MPH emphasized that “it’s very important to choose a food formulated for kittens because they require different nutrients for growth. Kittens require more calories per day than adult cats. These calories go into growth as well as the higher level of activity kittens have. Kittens generally have double the calorie needs per day compared to an adult cat. Kitten foods also have a different ratio of minerals compared to adult foods to assist with their bone growth.”

In addition to looking for foods that were properly formulated for kittens, we sought products with certain key qualities, including high protein and fat content, appropriate levels of DHA, and more.

This is in line with veterinarian Dr. Chyrle Bonk’s recommendations. She explained that “you’ll want to make sure any kitten food is fortified with DHA for healthy brain development,” adding that “kitten food should also be higher in protein and fat than the adult version in order to fuel their growing bodies, and choose one with smaller-sized kibble so that they can easily get their tiny mouths around it.”

We Looked for Species-Appropriate Foods

We looked for foods that honor kittens’ nutritional needs, emphasizing meat ingredients over plants. All of the foods on the following list are rich in animal-sourced protein and keep carbohydrate content low. We looked for foods that were at least 50% protein and less than 10% carbohydrate, measured on a dry matter basis.

We Disqualified Foods That Contain Potentially Harmful Ingredients

Meanwhile, we avoided products that contained unnecessary or potentially harmful ingredients. These include fillers, starches, artificial colors, chemical preservatives, and sweeteners.

And We Gave Preference To High-Moisture Foods

Because hydration is so important for kittens and cats of all ages, we paid special attention to high-moisture foods. Moisture content is much higher in wet kitten foods than in dry kitten foods.

Hydration is essential, but it’s not enough to put a bowl of water alongside your kitten’s kibble.

Like all cats, kittens aren’t exactly eager to drink a lot of water. They may not want to drink out of the bowl. Even if they do drink water, they seldom take in enough water to keep their systems in top condition. This makes a high-moisture diet for kittens almost essential. Canned, wet, and other moisture-rich foods help prevent urinary tract issues and promote good overall health.

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In addition to performing our own qualitative analysis of the brands reviewed here, we submitted samples for analysis at an ISO 17025 certified food testing and analysis lab.

We bought the products at full retail price, and the entire testing process was funded by AllAbout Cats without direct input or influence from the companies involved.

Analytical testing in a food chemistry lab gives us the exact macronutrient and
micronutrient content of each recipe. The tests also look at microbial content, yeast, mold, and heavy metals, helping you ensure that you’re putting only the best in your cat’s bowl.

To access the lab reports for each food reviewed here, click the “view lab report” link in the product review.

The Best Healthy Kitten Food Reviewed: Our Top 9 Recommendations

Now that we know what to look for in kitten food, let’s explore our top eight picks for the best kitten food on the market.

#1 Overall Best: Wellness CORE Kitten Turkey & Chicken Liver Recipe Canned Food Review

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Read Our Full Brand Review View Lab Report

Our top pick is the high-protein wet cat food from Wellness CORE. It’s a meat-based formula packed with animal-based ingredients, including turkey, chicken liver, chicken meat, and chicken meal.

While some people write off chicken meal as inferior to so-called “real chicken” and put it in the same category as poultry by-products, those criticisms don’t hold up to examination. Chicken meal appears to be just as nutritious and digestible as any other chicken product. In fact, it packs a harder protein and calorie punch—which is exactly what your growing kitten needs.

The inclusions of herring and menhaden fish oil make the food a good source of DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid that contributes to brain and eye development in kittens.

Though it’s grain-free with no potatoes or soy, this pâté contains small amounts of certain plant ingredients, including ground flaxseed, dried kelp, chicory root extract, and alfalfa meal.

Though these ingredients aren’t essential in a carnivorous diet, they have a few benefits for kittens. Chicory root extract, for example, is a prebiotic. Along with probiotics, this type of fiber could help support digestive and immune system health.

Each 3 oz. can contains 108 calories, which is about average across all kitten formulas.

Ingredients:

Turkey, Chicken Liver, Turkey Broth, Chicken, Chicken Meal, Herring, Natural Flavor, Cranberries, Menhaden Fish Oil (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Guar Gum, Tricalcium Phosphate, Ground Flaxseed, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Taurine, Cassia Gum, Xanthan Gum, Dried Kelp, Chicory Root Extract, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Alfalfa Meal, Salt, Magnesium Sulfate, Iron Proteinate, Zinc Proteinate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Vitamin E Supplement, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Niacin, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Biotin, Potassium Iodide, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Rosemary Extract.

Guaranteed Analysis

Crude Protein: 12%

Crude Fat: 6%

Crude Fiber: 1%

Moisture: 78%

Dry Matter Basis

Protein: 54. 55%

Fat: 27.27%

Fiber: 4.55%

Carbs: 13.64%

Caloric Weight Basis

Protein: 40.58%

Fat: 49.28%

Carbs: 10.14%

What We Liked:

One of the most protein-packed kitten foods on the market
Ultra-soft pâté texture is easy for kittens to eat
Calorie-dense recipe to fuel growth and development
Rich in moisture for optimal hydration
Supplemented with fish oil as a source of DHA

What We Didn’t Like:

A little more expensive than many kitten foods
Contains some plant ingredients

#2 Runner-Up: Instinct by Nature’s Variety Kitten Grain-Free Real Chicken Recipe

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Read Our Full Brand Review View Lab Report

This kitten food from Nature’s Instinct is made primarily from wholesome animal ingredients and is rich in the amino acids that help your kitten to thrive. The first ingredient is chicken, and it contains salmon as a natural source of DHA, a fatty acid with a role in brain and eye development.

This kitten recipe doesn’t contain any of the starches and plant protein that weigh your kitten down and create waste, but it does contain traces of cranberries, pumpkin, tomato, blueberries, broccoli, cabbage, kale, and parsley.

Overall, however, this food is a low-carb option, with about 9% carbohydrates on a dry matter basis. It is a little more expensive than many kitten foods, but it offers good nutritional quality.

Each 3 oz can contains 103 calories, which is about average for kitten food.

Ingredients:

Chicken, Beef Liver, Chicken Broth, Salmon (Source of DHA), Eggs, Montmorillonite Clay, Dried Kelp, Taurine, Potassium Chloride, Salt, Minerals (Iron Proteinate, Zinc Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Potassium Iodide), Choline Chloride, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Niacin Supplement, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin, Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin D3, Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid), L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate, Artichokes, Cranberries, Pumpkin, Tomato, Blueberries, Broccoli, Cabbage, Kale, Parsley

Guaranteed Analysis

Crude Protein: 12%

Crude Fat: 6%

Crude Fiber: 1%

Moisture: 78%

Dry Matter Basis

Protein: 54. 55%

Fat: 27.27%

Fiber: 4.55%

Carbs: 13.64%

Caloric Weight Basis

Protein: 40.58%

Fat: 49.28%

Carbs: 10.14%

What We Liked:

Rich in animal-based protein from chicken, beef, and salmon
Soft canned food offers palatable texture and hydration
Very low carbohydrate content
Rich in DHA for healthy brain and eye development

What We Didn’t Like:

A little more expensive than many kitten foods
Doesn’t receive consistently positive customer reviews

#3 Best Fresh Food: Smalls Fresh Ground Other Bird

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Smalls is a fresh cat food subscription service that sends monthly deliveries of protein- and moisture-packed fresh food right to your door. All of their recipes are formulated for cats in all life stages, and their high protein content and concentration of healthy fats fuel your kitten’s growth and development.

This Ground Other Bird recipe features turkey as a single source of high-quality animal protein. Fresh turkey is the first ingredient followed by turkey liver and three plant ingredients. Canola oil is the only source of added fat.

The food is high in moisture to support your kitten’s hydration and it doesn’t contain any animal by-product meals or artificial additives.

Smalls fresh food is a little expensive, but it’s made with human-grade ingredients and frozen at the peak of freshness to preserve its nutritional value. The packages are marked in 1-ounce increments, so it’s easy to portion the food according to your kitten’s calorie requirements.

Each 11.5-ounce package contains 460 calories, which translates to about 40 calories per ounce.

Ingredients

Turkey Thigh, Turkey Liver, Green Beans, Peas, Kale, Tricalcium Phosphate, Canola Oil, Choline Chloride, Potassium Chloride, Salt, Taurine, Magnesium Sulfate, Niacinamide, Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Sulfate, Vitamin E Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B5), Copper Sulfate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Manganese Sulfate, Riboflavin (Vitamin B2), Potassium Iodide, Folic Acid, Biotin (Vitamin B7), Vitamin B12 Supplement, Vitamin D3 Supplement

Guaranteed Analysis

Crude Protein: 16%

Crude Fat: 8. 5%

Crude Fiber: 1.5%

Moisture: 72%

Dry Matter Basis

Protein: 57.14%

Fat: 30.36%

Fiber: 5.36%

Carbs: 7.14%

Caloric Weight Basis

Protein: 41.4%

Fat: 53.42%

Carbs: 5.18%

What We Liked:

Single source of high-quality animal protein
Rich in moisture to support your kitten’s hydration
Free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives
Portions are clearly labeled on the package

What We Didn’t Like:

Contains some plant ingredients
Only available by subscription

#4 Best Human-Grade: The Honest Kitchen Grain-Free Chicken Caté (Paté) Wet Cat Food

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If you’re interested in a human-grade food for your kitten, you might be interested in wet food from The Honest Kitchen. While most kitten food is considered feed-grade and produced in facilities that only handle pet food, The Honest Kitchen prepares, cooks, and transports all of their products according to human food manufacturing standards.

Formulated for both adult cats and kittens, The Honest Kitchen’s food is rich in protein from animal sources, featuring chicken as its primary ingredient. In addition to chicken meat, the food contains salmon oil, which is a good source of animal-based omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for your kitten’s brain and eye development.

The food comes in resealable and recyclable 5.5 ounce cardboard cartons. It is on the more expensive side at over $0.50 per ounce, but that price may be worth it for a top-quality, human-grade food for your kitten.

Each 5.5-ounce carton contains 187 calories, which converts to about 34 calories per ounce.

Ingredients

Chicken, Chicken Broth, Chicken Liver, Pumpkin, Carrots, Blueberries, Cranberries, Natural Chicken Flavor, Calcium Carbonate, Agar Agar, Dandelion Greens, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Vitamin E Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Niacin Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Riboflavin, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Folic Acid, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Magnesium Proteinate, Taurine, Copper Proteinate, Iron Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Potassium Iodide, Zinc Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Kelp, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Salmon Oil.

Guaranteed Analysis

Crude Protein: 10%

Crude Fat: 6.5%

Crude Fiber: 1%

Moisture: 78%

Dry Matter Basis

Protein: 45.45%

Fat: 29.55%

Fiber: 4.55%

Carbs: 20.45%

Caloric Weight Basis

Protein: 33.02%

Fat: 52.12%

Carbs: 14.86%

What We Liked:

Chicken as a single source of high-quality animal protein
Free of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives
Rich in moisture to support your kitten’s hydration

What We Didn’t Like:

Contains some unnecessary plant ingredients
Price on the high side

#5 Best Ethically Sourced: Open Farm Wild-Caught Salmon Dry Food

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Your kitten deserves a nutritionally balanced diet that comes from high-quality ingredients, but it’s even better if those ingredients are 100% ethically sourced. Open Farm cat food checks both of these boxes and more, especially in this wild-caught salmon recipe.

This salmon recipe dry food is formulated to meet the nutritional requirements of cats in all life stages, which means it works just as well for your kitten as it does for adult cats. Wild Pacific salmon is the first ingredient, and it is followed by two additional sources of high-quality animal protein: whitefish meal and herring meal.

Not only does this formula contain plenty of animal-based protein, but it contains two sources of omega-rich animal-based fats – herring oil and salmon oil. We’d prefer to see one of these listed ahead of the primary added fat, coconut oil, but we’re happy to see them nonetheless.

The main downside of this formula is its high inclusion of plant-based ingredients. The dry matter carb content is just over 34%, which is higher than average for dry cat food. Also, this recipe doesn’t provide the high-moisture content that your kitten needs.

Each cup of dry food contains 470 calories.

Ingredients:

Wild Pacific Salmon, Ocean Whitefish Meal, Ocean Herring Meal, Garbanzo Beans (Chickpeas), Red Lentils, Coconut Oil (preserved with mixed tocopherols), Herring Oil (preserved with mixed tocopherols), Pumpkin, Natural Flavor, Green Lentils, Salmon Oil, Non-GMO Cranberries, Chicory Root, Apples, Dandelion Greens, Choline Chloride, Salt, Turmeric, Dried Yucca Schidigera Extract, Mixed Tocopherols (a natural preservative), Calcium Carbonate, Zinc Proteinate, Iron Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Calcium Iodate, Vitamin E Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Niacin Supplement, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Biotin, Vitamin A Acetate, Riboflavin Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid, Taurine, Rosemary Extract

Guaranteed Analysis

Crude Protein: 41%

Crude Fat: 20%

Crude Fiber: 3%

Moisture: 8%

Ash: 8%

Dry Matter Basis

Protein: 44. 57%

Fat: 21.74%

Fiber: 3.26%

Carbs: 21.74%

Caloric Weight Basis

Protein: 37.42%

Fat: 44.33%

Carbs: 18.25%

What We Liked:

Wild Pacific salmon as the first ingredient
Supplemented with two concentrated sources of animal protein
Herring and salmon oils for omega fatty acids
No animal by-products or vaguely named ingredients

What We Didn’t Like:

Contains a significant number of plant-based ingredients
Dry matter carbohydrate content is fairly high at over 34%
Doesn’t contain the moisture your kitten needs

#6 Budget Pick: Fancy Feast Kitten Tender Turkey Feast Canned Cat Food

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If you’d rather buy your kitten’s food from the grocery than the pet food store, consider this paté from Fancy Feast. This unpretentious formula emphasizes animal ingredients, keeps carbohydrates to a minimum, and has a reputation for palatability.

The recipe isn’t perfect, though. It contains both natural and artificial flavors, includes artificial colors, and uses meat by-products.

Meat by-products are often inaccurately portrayed as bad or unhealthy ingredients. According to the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), by-products are defined as what’s left over after the initial processing of a particular product. These by-products are then processed to kill disease-causing bacteria before being included in pet food.

So, although the word ‘by-product’ sounds off-putting, the presence of by-products in your kitten’s food does not necessarily make it less healthy or lower quality than a by-product-free food.

Another questionable quality of this food is the inclusion of cow’s milk. Most cats, including weaned kittens, are lactose intolerant and may have diarrhea after eating milk. That said, customer reviews suggest that this reaction is rare.

With 95 calories per can, this food is slightly less calorie-dense than some other kitten foods.

Ingredients:

Turkey, Liver, Meat By-Products, Poultry Broth, Milk, Fish, Egg Product, Artificial and Natural Flavors, Tricalcium Phosphate, Guar Gum, Minerals [Potassium Chloride, Magnesium Sulfate, Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Potassium Iodide], Added Color, Salt, Vitamins [Vitamin E Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B-1), Niacin (Vitamin B-3), Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B-5), Vitamin A Supplement, Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex (Vitamin K), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B-6), Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B-2), Vitamin B-12 Supplement, Biotin (Vitamin B-7), Folic Acid (Vitamin B-9), Vitamin D-3 Supplement], Taurine. C-6621.

Guaranteed Analysis

Crude Protein: 11%

Crude Fat: 5%

Crude Fiber: 1. 5%

Moisture: 78%

Ash: 3.5%

Dry Matter Basis

Protein: 50%

Fat: 22.73%

Fiber: 6.82%

Carbs: 4.55%

Caloric Weight Basis

Protein: 45.56%

Fat: 50.3%

Carbs: 4.14%

What We Liked:

Features high-quality animal protein as the main ingredient
Hydrating canned food with a strong reputation for palatability
One of the most affordable options for kitten food

What We Didn’t Like:

Contains meat by-products and artificial colors/flavors
Contains milk which could cause GI upset in some kittens

#7 Mid-Price Pick: Wellness Complete Health Kitten Chicken Entrée Pate Canned Food

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This grain-free smooth loaf from Wellness’ Complete Health line is slightly cheaper than the Wellness CORE recipe listed as our number one pick. But with protein-rich chicken and chicken liver leading the ingredient list, it looks like a nutritious, species-appropriate option.

The food’s biggest flaw is its carbohydrate content. The food contains carrots, which drive its total carbohydrate content to around 14% on a dry matter basis. While that’s low compared to many wet foods and most kibble, we’d rather see carbohydrate percentages in the single digits.

The recipe includes menhaden fish oil as a source of the fatty acid DHA, helping to promote healthy brain and eye development.

This food is exceptionally calorie-dense, with 122 calories in every 3 oz can.

Ingredients:

Chicken, Chicken Liver, Chicken Broth, Carrots, Natural Flavor, Cranberries, Guar Gum, Ground Flaxseed, Potassium Chloride, Taurine, Salt, Menhaden Fish Oil (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols), Choline Chloride, Magnesium Sulfate, Cassia Gum, Xanthan Gum, Iron Proteinate, Zinc Proteinate, Beta-Carotene, Vitamin E Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Niacin, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Biotin, Potassium Iodide, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Rosemary Extract.

Guaranteed Analysis

Crude Protein: 11%

Crude Fat: 6%

Crude Fiber: 1%

Moisture: 78%

Dry Matter Basis

Protein: 50%

Fat: 27.27%

Fiber: 4.55%

Carbs: 18.18%

Caloric Weight Basis

Protein: 37.2%

Fat: 49.28%

Carbs: 13.53%

What We Liked:

Made primarily with animal-based protein sources
Contains menhaden fish oil for DHA
Highly palatable and hydrating canned food
Calorie-dense option with 122 calories per can

What We Didn’t Like:

Somewhat more expensive than some kitten foods
Relatively high in carbohydrate content

#8 Best For Weight Gain: Blue Buffalo Tastefuls Chicken Entrée Kitten Pate Wet Cat Food

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Kittens grow very quickly, with most reaching their adult size within 10 to 12 months. That being said, some kittens need a little extra help with development. This is where a calorie-dense formula like this Blue Buffalo Healthy Gourmet kitten recipe comes into play.

The inclusion of brown rice, carrots, carrageenan, and sweet potatoes keeps this food from taking anything but the 5th place spot on this list. That said, it does have some good qualities for kittens.

As evidenced by the inclusion of chicken, chicken liver, and dried egg among the first ingredients, it contains a respectable quantity of the animal ingredients your kitten needs. Though the food contains several high-carbohydrate ingredients, its carbohydrate content appears to linger around 9% on a dry matter basis, making it an acceptable choice for your carnivorous new kitten.

Another good quality of this food is the fact that it’s supplemented with DHA from fish oil. Besides being an anti-inflammatory that can promote skin and coat health, this fatty acid plays a role in your kitten’s cognitive and ocular development.

With 122 calories in every 3 oz can, this food is exceptionally calorie-dense.

Ingredients:

Chicken, Chicken Liver, Chicken Broth, Dried Egg Product, Natural Flavor, Fish Oil (source of DHA-Docosahexaenoic Acid), Brown Rice, Guar Gum Sweet Potatoes, Sodium Acid Pyrophosphate, Potassium Chloride, Tricalcium Phosphate, Taurine, Salt, Carrageenan, Cassia Gum, Magnesium Sulfate, Choline Chloride, Iron Amino Acid Chelate, Zinc Amino Acid Chelate, Vitamin E Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Copper Amino Acid Chelate, Manganese Amino Acid Chelate, Sodium Selenite, Niacin Supplement (Vitamin B3), Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B5), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B2), Vitamin A Supplement, Biotin (Vitamin B7), Potassium Iodide, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid (Vitamin B9), preserved with Mixed Tocopherols.

Guaranteed Analysis

Crude Protein: 11%

Crude Fat: 7. 5%

Crude Fiber: 1.5%

Moisture: 78%

Dry Matter Basis

Protein: 50%

Fat: 34.09%

Fiber: 6.82%

Carbs: 9.09%

Caloric Weight Basis

Protein: 35.24%

Fat: 58.35%

Carbs: 6.41%

What We Liked:

Made primarily from nourishing sources of animal protein
Hydrating and highly palatable canned food
Contains fish oil as a natural source of DHA for brain/eye development
Calorie-dense at 122 calories per 3-ounce can

What We Didn’t Like:

Contains carrageenan – a potentially inflammatory additive

#9 Best Dry Kitten Food: Instinct Original Kitten Grain-Free Recipe Dry Cat Food

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Dry food generally isn’t our top choice for kittens but many cat owners find it more affordable and convenient than wet food. Kibble tends to be low in moisture and high in carbohydrates which can contribute to a variety of potential health problems like urinary tract issues and feline diabetes.

Some kittens also have trouble transitioning onto a wet food diet later if they’re weaned onto a primarily dry food diet.

This dry kitten food from Instinct is low in moisture and contains more carbs than a premium-quality wet food, but it’s better than the average kitten food. Its dry matter carbohydrate content is relatively low at just over 13% and it is comprised of 81% animal ingredients, including animal fat.

With concentrated sources of animal protein as the top three ingredients, this protein-rich formula helps support kitten growth and development. It contains animal-derived omega-3s for eye and brain health as well as probiotics to support optimal digestion and nutrient absorption.

This recipe is calorie-dense at 557 calories per cup. It’s free from low-value grains like corn, wheat, and soy as well as artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives. It also contains freeze-dried chicken and chicken organs for a boost of flavor.

Ingredients

Chicken, Turkey Meal, Menhaden Fish Meal, Peas, Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols and Citric Acid), Egg Product, Chicken Meal, White Fish Meal, Tapioca, Natural Flavor, Lamb Meal, Dried Tomato Pomace, Carrots, Apples, Cranberries, Montmorillonite Clay, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate, Niacin Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin A Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Biotin), Choline Chloride, Minerals (Zinc Proteinate, Iron Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Ethylenediamine Dihydroiodide), Potassium Chloride, Salt, Taurine, Freeze Dried Chicken, Freeze Dried Chicken Liver, Pumpkinseeds, Freeze Dried Chicken Heart, Dried Bacillus coagulans Fermentation Product, Rosemary Extract.

Guaranteed Analysis

Crude Protein: 42. 5%

Crude Fat: 22.5%

Crude Fiber: 3%

Moisture: 9%

Dry Matter Basis

Protein: 46.7%

Fat: 24.73%

Fiber: 3.3%

Carbs: 25.27%

Caloric Weight Basis

Protein: 35.37%

Fat: 45.48%

Carbs: 19.14%

What We Liked:

Composed of 81% animal ingredients, including animal fat
Calorie-dense to support healthy kitten growth
Contains animal-based omega-3s for eye and brain development
Supplemented with probiotics for digestion and nutrient absorption

What We Didn’t Like:

Contains starchy plant ingredients
No dry food provides the moisture your kitten needs

How Are Kittens’ Nutritional Needs Different From Those Of Adult Cats?

Nutritionally speaking, the biggest difference between kittens and adults is the need for ultra-nutrient-dense food that will fuel early growth stages.

While all kitten foods are different, they’re generally calorie-dense with high concentrations of protein. They’re rich in calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, vitamin A, and certain amino acids.

If you’re committed to purchasing commercially available food, read the label to determine whether or not it’s appropriate for kittens. If the food is labeled complete and balanced for growth and reproduction OR all life stages, it’s been formulated according to the AAFCO’s nutrient profiles for kitten health.

Avoid diets labeled simply for adult maintenance. As the label suggests, adult cat food is intended to maintain a healthy adult weight and lacks the nutritional gusto to fuel your kitten’s growth spurts.

While some insist that only commercially sold foods provide the nourishment a kitten requires, this isn’t exactly true.

If correctly balanced, a home-cooked diet can be an excellent choice for your growing kitten. These diets offer what a kitten needs, delivering more bioavailable protein and calorie density than almost anything you’ll buy in a bag or a can.

Keep in mind, though, that preparing home-cooked pet foods can be time-intensive, and it can be difficult to achieve the appropriate nutrient balance. Consult with a veterinary nutritionist if you are interested in preparing homecooked food for your kitten.

A Nutritionally Complete Diet Is Crucial During Kittenhood

Remember that a nutritionally complete diet is crucial during the first 12 months of life. During these months, you’re building the foundation for a lifetime of good health. A diet that is nutritionally incomplete or unbalanced could set your kitten up for serious health problems down the road.

An article on Mercola Healthy Pets illustrates this fact with the story of a 5-month-old Sphynx kitten who was fed exclusively raw chicken for the first several months of his life. As a result of this imbalanced diet, the kitten developed lameness and eye problems. By the time the kitten was adopted, he was suffering from osteopenia, a condition resulting from inadequate mineral density in the bones. Inadequate taurine had caused central retinal degeneration and lesions on one of his eyes.

Four months of inadequate nutrition may not have had such an obvious impact on an adult cat, but for a growing kitten, every meal is critical.

Kitten Food Should Be Rich in High-quality Protein from Real Chicken, Turkey, Rabbit, Or Other Animal-Sourced Ingredients.

As obligate carnivores, cats of all ages need a lot of protein.

Compared to middle-aged adults, kittens are more sensitive to both the quantity and quality of that protein. While adult cats need at least 6.5 grams of protein per 100 calories according to the AAFCO’s nutrient profiles, kittens need 7.5 grams or more.

According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, “Growing kittens are more sensitive to the quality of dietary protein and amino acid balance than are adult cats.”

What Constitutes High-Quality Protein For A Kitten?

As obligate carnivores, kittens require the amino acids found in animal tissue. Animal bodies contain all of the amino acids cats and kittens need to thrive. You can’t achieve that amino acid balance with plant-sourced protein alone. Instead, plant-based foods are a patchwork of protein sources. Synthetic amino acids fill the gaps.

Compared to animal-based protein, protein from plants, like that found in peas, beans, and corn gluten meal, sits lower on that digestibility scale. High-quality muscle meat is closer to the top, meaning that your kitten utilizes almost all of its protein content, with minimal waste.

When shopping for kitten food, seek out products featuring named meats as the first several ingredients. Look for words like “chicken”, “turkey”, and “rabbit.” If these meats are followed by “pea protein,” “soy protein,” or “corn gluten meal,” consider trying something else.

The Best Kitten Food Is Calorie-Dense

As he zooms and pounces through the first year of life, your kitten burns a lot of calories. Choosing a calorie-dense food made with natural ingredients will ensure that he has enough fuel to get bigger and zip across the house with ease.

Dr. Lizzie Youens clarifies that kitten food doesn’t only support physical growth, noting that “it’s not only physical growth we need to fuel, but also their immune system, nervous system, brain, and other vital functions. They need high-quality nutrients in an easily digestible form.”

Kitten Food Should Be Rich in Certain Vitamins and Minerals

Compared to adult cats, kittens have slightly different vitamin and mineral needs. According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, kittens should consume food with a calcium-to-phosphorus ratio of about 1.0 to 0.8, while adult cats should get a ratio of about 0.6 to 0.5. Kittens also have slightly higher requirements for vitamin A and require slightly greater amounts of the amino acids lysine and tryptophan.

Soft Kitten Food Is Easier for Young Kittens to Eat

Technically, you can feed your kitten dry or wet food. But when they’re very young and still have baby teeth, your kitten will likely find it easiest to eat soft, wet food. This could be a cooked homemade or homemade-style food or canned food.

After the first six months, introduce more challenging morsels. Chewier pieces of cooked meat challenge your kitten’s jaws and can promote good dental health.

With most cats suffering from periodontal disease by the time they reach middle age, establishing good dental hygiene in kittenhood is one of the most impactful health investments you can make.

Relevant Articles:

How to Take Care of a Kitten: The Complete Guide
How to Kitten-Proof Your Home: 6 Essential Tips
What to Know When Fostering Kittens: 6 Essential Tips

Frequently Asked Questions

When Should You Start Feeding Kitten Food?

Kittens start transitioning off of their mother’s milk and onto solid food at around four weeks of age. The weaning process is both voluntary and forced. Kittens might get curious about sharing their mother’s food and when they go back to suckle, she’ll begin to push them away.

It’s a gradual process that usually takes a few weeks. By the time kittens are seven weeks old, they should be fully weaned and eating a solid food diet.

How Often Should You Feed Your Kitten?

Kittens are happiest and healthiest when served three or four small meals each day.

Is It Okay to Feed Your Kitten A Variety of Foods or Should They Stick to One Food Only?

To ensure that your cat doesn’t become finicky, it’s a good idea to introduce varied textures and flavors during kittenhood.

Some people, including veterinarians, believe in feeding one food for the entirety of a cat’s life. Not only does relying exclusively on a single protein source set your cat up for food intolerances later in life, but a limited diet also tells your cat that it’s okay to be finicky.

If you allow your kitten to eat nothing but chicken-based pâté for the first 12 months of their life, they’ll likely be reluctant to try new foods when they’re 12 years old.

When Should You Stop Feeding Kitten Food?

When we talked to Dr. Sarah Reidenbach, DVM about this, she shared that she typically recommends that cats switch to an adult diet at 1 year of age, but this varies depending on when the cat reaches physical maturity. Around that time, you can gradually switch your cat off of their kitten food and onto a diet formulated for adult cats. Your veterinarian can advise you on when to transition from kitten food to adult food.

Can Adult Cats Eat Kitten Food?

Adult cats can eat kitten food, but it’s not necessarily a good long-term choice. Compared to products intended for adult cats, kitten food may have more calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and other micronutrients that support skeletal development. For an adult cat, those minerals may be excessive.

Remember that kitten food is packed with calories to fuel babyhood growth. For this reason, it may be a good choice if you need to help your adult cat gain weight. If your cat isn’t underweight, however, eating kitten food could lead to obesity.

what to choose and what veterinarians advise

We asked what food to choose for a pet.

Vika Plotanenko

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In the comments, readers shared the best pet food manufacturers and told which food is suitable for babies, adults, sterilized, pregnant and elderly pets. In the first selection - food for cats.

Cost: from 450 R per 400 g

Anton Tarasov

lives with a mongrel cat

Given: a mongrel cat, found near the basement of a store in the cold. Neutered at the age of 7 months, regularly vaccinated and swallows tablets from parasites, combed out from time to time. Medium length wool.

First they fed dry Royal Canin, after a couple of months it turned out that this food in Russia is so-so, they switched to dry Grandorf. Good food, I like it. The cat is sometimes mischievous and asks for wet food, because when he was little, he was given this little by little while accustoming to dry food, but he does not like a hunger strike. Somehow he knows how to limit himself, approaches the bowl several times a day, does not eat everything, but slowly sharpens as much as he needs.

So far, no tests have been taken after switching to a new food, but the cat behaves normally, eats well, and does the rest of his cat's business without any problems. The veterinarian at the vaccination said that the cat has a very beautiful and soft coat, so I think the food is really high quality.

Cost: from 400 R for 340 g

Marina Safonova

brings up two fluffy cats

I have two cats. I will say right away: I highly recommend Orijen dry food and do not recommend Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets Obesity Management dry food for weight loss.

On Veterinary Diets, both cats were constantly throwing up and asking for more food because they didn't seem to be eating enough. The coat has faded and become more shaggy. And veterinarians even recommended this food.

As soon as the cats were transferred to Orijen, everyone stopped vomiting, the coat improved very quickly and became velvety, tangles disappeared. Cats eat less food. A 1.8 kg bag lasts about three weeks for two cats, if not more.

Cost: from 340 R for 340 g

Bob Rik

does not like show-offs

The cat eats Acana grain-free food with fish. He eats with pleasure, does not even try to steal something from human food. At the same time, we are trying to reduce her weight: she is sterilized, weighs 5 kg, looks very well-fed. We weigh the food on a scale, give it three times a day for 15 g, which are eaten very quickly. With the recommended serving of 60 g per day, the weight does not change.

The veterinarian recommended N&D, but I read the composition and reviews, but Acana seems to be more interesting. There is an even cooler Orijen from the same manufacturer, but this is more of a show-off.

Cost: from 130 R for 400 g

Daria Ristevski

lives with a picky cat

I have one cat. A cross between an ordinary striped kitty and a Neva Masquerade cat. I feed dry and wet food. From dry with pleasure eats Purina Cat Chow Adult Sensitive. I buy 1.5 kg, enough for a month for sure. From wet - Purina Pro Plan. 15 spiders are enough for about a month: as a rule, she eats about a third of the bag in the morning and evening. An important clarification: I take only tender pieces - this is what it says on the packaging, because once I made a mistake and took tasty pieces chopped in a different way. This fluffy ass licked all the sauce, but did not eat them.

There are no complaints about the feed. The coat is beautiful, the cat is healthy, but often unhappy. But I think the reason lies in her bad temper - she is patient only with me. Once I took her a treat for picky cats, but she refused to eat it. It seems that manufacturers should think about treats for extremely picky cats.

Cost: from 850 R per 500 g

Anastasia Ivanova

owner of cats that are crazy about fruits and berries

I buy Wildcat food with horse meat, venison, pheasant meat, etc. Suitable if the cat is allergic to chicken or soy, which are many in other foods. The manufacturer claims no grain, a 70-80% meat content, and the addition of vegetables, berries, herbs, and roots that cats can eat in the wild. I don’t know if this is true, but given that my cats happily ate any available plants and went crazy for some fruits, vegetables and berries, I admit it. Manufacturer - Germany.

Cost: from 240 R for 230 g Now and from 1000 R for 1.36 kg Go!

Rita Rita

prefers to buy quality food for cats

I have two cats, they are sterilized and vaccinated. Picked them up off the street over 4 years ago. I feed dry food from one manufacturer - Now or Go, depending on which of them is discounted in a pet store. I buy because they are holistic, there is a large percentage of meat. I'd rather buy food of better quality and more expensive than treat cats later.

I buy the largest pack of 7 kg - enough for a couple of months. I usually wait for discounts when I see that the food is running out. I feed wet food about once every 1-2 weeks, we like Animonda. If there are discounts, I take Applaws or Berkley. I don't like Royal Canin and Pro Plan - there are more costs, but the composition is worse.

Price: from 260 R for 300 g

Evgenia Mozhegova

lives with a cat who loves treats with pumpkin

My cat is 3 years old. After neutering I feed N&D Grain Free for Spayed Cats with Chicken. Eats well.

Some time ago I noticed a rather strong smell from her mouth, the veterinarian found out that the cat had stomatitis, but after treatment the smell did not disappear. I was advised to change the food to less protein. Tried to transfer the cat to Hills. At first, she reacted wildly to him: she begged and yelled, but after a while she stopped liking him. In addition, I was confused by the composition of this feed - with corn and meat meal.

Returned to N&D. The daily gram indicated on the pack is enough for a cat just for a day. She does not eat everything at once, but eats as much as she wants. The water is constantly fresh. As a treat, I take her the same N&D, only with pumpkin, somehow she really liked it.

Price: from 1200 R per 2 kg

Valeria Zenina

brings up a Maine Coon

We have a Maine Coon girl. The breeder recommended many different foods, among them Orijen and Husse. We stopped at Husse. We order from Moscow to the Komi Republic. It costs about 3000 R for a package of 7 kg, and delivery is 500-800 R. Such a large package eats up in 3-4 months. She eats with any taste, she has never been picky. Food is always available, does not overeat, eats a little when he wants. The fur has become soft.

From natural food I give meat, chicken and duck heads and necks, sometimes fish. But in general, she doesn’t like it all very much, she can lick it and leave it.

Price: from 280 R for 400 g

Irina Konyakina

solved problems with bad smell

On the advice of the nursery, for some time they fed him minced pork heart. Three months later, we decided to switch to spiders and canned food. We started with Royal Canin, but the tray became much more fragrant.

We tried Wellkiss. Problems with an unpleasant smell from the tray are gone, and the percentage of meat components is higher in this feed. A couple of months later, the cat was transferred to dry food from the same manufacturer. So he now eats Wellkiss dry food with us, spiders are left only as a treat once or twice a week, a couple of times a month we can treat him to pieces of fish.

Bonus

natural food

Price: ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

Elmira Akhmetzyanova

mistress of the village cats

And our village three cats and two cats eat any soups, bread with goat's milk, cereals. We feed with natural boiled chicken and beef meat. Eat any sausage. There is a lot of competition between them, so they eat everything we give. They also all hunt mice and rats. They walk in the fresh air, that's a good appetite. Russian blue cats. All are very beautiful, large, moderately well-fed. Wool is shiny and shiny.

Baby cat food

Is it possible to give baby food to a cat? Pros and cons
What is baby food
What can be substituted?

What is baby food

Many owners believe that everything done for children is absolutely hypoallergenic and safe, so they give baby food to cats and kittens without hesitation. This includes special purees and mixtures of vegetables and meats intended for feeding babies. The most popular manufacturers are companies such as Agusha, Gerber and so on. However, are such dishes included in the list of products that are not harmful to your pets? Let's figure it out!

Is it possible to give baby food to a cat? Pros and cons

The general answer is yes, you can, but there are many nuances that the Murkosi team will tell you about in this article.

First of all, it is worth understanding that cats are predators and that of infant formulas, meat ones are most suitable for them (except in certain special cases). A valid option for baby food for a cat is in those moments when he is weakened, cannot chew and digest heavy, wholesome food. This is usually associated with past illnesses and operations, with diseases of the esophagus and gums.

For example, veterinarians recommend giving baby food to older cats that develop gum disease and tooth loss. If the pet has a sensitive esophagus that is unable to digest heavy food or food in pieces for any reason, then this type of food can also be offered to him.

In such a difficult state of health, baby food for a cat will be an excellent alternative to regular food, but owners should pay attention to other important aspects. The first of these is what such food consists of.

To begin with, it is worth understanding what kind (that is, consisting of what components) baby food should be offered to a cat. To do this, it is advisable to know if the fluffy is allergic to any vegetables or meat. The surest way to check is to give your pet one or another puree (from beef or chicken, containing certain vegetables) in a small amount and monitor his condition. If you observe fever, diarrhea, vomiting or any other unhealthy reaction of the cat's body, stop feeding it this product. Offer another mixture, after checking its components for similarity with the previous ones and making sure that they do not repeat. If there is a reaction to it, then it is possible that it is better to avoid infant formulas from this particular manufacturer. If you still intend to accustom a cat to baby food, then conduct similar experiments with products from another company.

Read more about allergies: Food allergies in cats

Next, check the composition for the presence of components harmful to the cat's body. Of course, preservatives are excluded from baby food, but there are still many other substances that are harmful to cats. First of all, don't buy formulas that contain soy for your cat, as this is not part of the cat's natural diet and can lead to serious digestive problems. Lactose is also categorically not recommended for cats, since many mustachioed cats have intolerance to this substance.

More about the dangers of lactose: Is it okay to give cats milk?

Important! Baby food for a cat should never contain onions, garlic and salt! Onions and garlic contain a disulphide component that promotes the breakdown of erythrocytes (red blood cells) in a cat's body. Its constant presence in the blood leads to the development of hemolytic anemia and can be fatal. If the baby food contains sugar or salt in large quantities, then it should also be avoided, because these substances lead to serious disorders in the digestive system, liver and kidneys.

What other products “from the table” harm cats: https://murkosha.ru/nashi-stati/soderzhanie-i-ukhod/luchshaya-eda-dlya-koshki-so-stola-mify-i-realnost

In the shelter "Murkosha" they always carefully check the components of the feed that are given to our cats, and we take products only from proven and really high-quality manufacturers. Each owner should also be careful about choosing the diet of his pet.

Many owners mistakenly believe that they can feed their cats expired baby food. However, this opinion is fundamentally wrong! The cat's body is as sensitive to spoiled food as the human body, so delay can cause poisoning and intoxication.

Another disadvantage of feeding a cat with baby food is that it is still intended for human children. Baby food for kittens is not a product that should replace everything else like professional food. Be that as it may, the best nutritional option for a healthy kitten is mother's milk, and then special food, because it contains all the necessary vitamins and minerals for the healthy growth of a kitten.

It is also a mistake to feed a cat with baby food consisting exclusively of meat. It would be more correct to combine it with vegetable mixtures to maintain the proper level of all the vitamins and nutrients a cat needs - because a mustachioed pet needs not only proteins, but also carbohydrates and fiber. And this is where the main snag lies: at home it is very difficult, almost impossible to maintain the necessary balance by feeding a cat with natural products or mixtures (including baby food) intended for humans. Therefore, baby food is a serious compromise in any case. For comparison, in the professional feeds of the super premium and holistic class (which are used in Murkosh), the balance of useful substances is precisely adjusted, and there is also a vitamin and mineral complex.

Read about super premium food: Super premium cat food

About holistics: Holistic cat food

in the diet - but only a product used for health problems in an animal, as a way to transfer a cat from one food to another, or only as a vitamin supplement.

What can be substituted?

Of course, the most obvious alternative to baby food for kittens is professional food labeled “for kittens”. For the little ones (but who have already stopped feeding on mother cat's milk), we recommend wet food.