The Ultimate Kitten Feeding Guide: What to Feed Your New Furry Friend in 2025
Welcoming a kitten to your Kitten Paws Family? Their tiny tummies need big nutrition! Did you know kittens can triple their weight in the first 8 weeks of life? That’s why feeding them right is the foundation for a lifetime of health and happiness.
In this kitten feeding guide, we’ll break down what to feed kittens at every stage—from newborn to their first birthday. With the latest kitten nutrition 2025 updates, you’ll know exactly what foods, schedules, and nutrients your growing furball needs.
Section 1: Newborn to 4 Weeks – Mother’s Milk Magic
In the earliest stage of life, nothing beats mother’s milk. It provides the antibodies, fat, and protein kittens need for healthy growth. But what if mom isn’t around?
👉 Use Kitten Milk Replacer (KMR) — never cow’s milk, as it can cause diarrhea and tummy upset.
Feeding schedule:
- Every 2–3 hours (yes, even at night!)
- 2–4 mL per feeding for a 4-oz kitten
💡 Pro Tip: Keep kittens warm before feeding. Cold kittens cannot digest food properly.
Section 2: 4–8 Weeks – Weaning Wonders
By the 4th week, kittens are ready to explore beyond milk. This is when you’ll start the weaning process.
- Begin with wet kitten food or a gruel made by soaking dry kibble in warm water or kitten milk replacer.
- Slowly reduce liquid content over time.
Top Vet-Recommended Pick (2025):
🐾 Purina Pro Plan Kitten Shreds in Gravy – rich in DHA for brain and vision development.
Feeding schedule:
- 4 meals per day
- Around ¼ can of wet food daily (split into meals)
💡 Pro Tip: Expect some messy mealtime “experiments.” Weaning is as much about play as it is about food!
Section 3: 8 Weeks+ – Solid Food Transition
Once kittens hit 8 weeks, they can transition to a mix of wet and dry kitten food. Look for formulas with:
- 30% protein minimum
- Balanced fat and fiber for healthy digestion
Great option for 2025:
🐾 Royal Canin Kitten Loaf in Sauce – nutrient-rich and easy to chew.
Kitten Feeding Chart (8 Weeks to 1 Year)
| Age | Meals/Day | Daily Calories (per lb body weight) |
|---|---|---|
| 8–12 weeks | 4 | 200–250 kcal |
| 3–6 months | 3 | 150–200 kcal |
| 6–12 months | 2–3 | 100–150 kcal |
💡 Pro Tip: Always provide fresh water. Even if your kitten eats mostly wet food, hydration is essential for kidney health.
Following this kitten feeding guide ensures your little one grows into a strong, playful, and healthy cat. From milk to solids, every stage of kittenhood comes with unique nutritional needs—so stay consistent and patient.
🎥 Want a laugh? Check out our latest Short: “Kitten Weaning Fails”—because spills and splashes are part of the journey!
🐾 Your turn: What’s your kitten’s favorite food? Share in the comments below and join the KittenPawFamily community for more purr-fect tips.
