Kitten Feeding Schedule by Age

Feeding Kittens Right From the Start

Kittens have small stomachs and high energy needs. They require more frequent meals than adult cats.

Birth to 4 Weeks

Mother milk provides complete nutrition. Orphaned kittens need kitten milk replacer every 2-3 hours. Never feed cow milk.

4-8 Weeks: Weaning

Introduce wet kitten food mixed with milk replacer to create a gruel. Offer 4-5 small meals daily.

2-6 Months

Feed 3-4 meals per day of kitten-specific food. Free-feeding dry food is acceptable at this age.

6-12 Months

Reduce to 2-3 meals per day. Transition to adult food around 12 months.

Key Nutrients

DHA supports brain development. Taurine is essential for heart and eye health. Choose AAFCO-approved kitten food.