Kittens have special needs that are very different from those of adult cats. Their digestive tract is not yet fully developed, which affects their food intake and utilisation.
You can find out how often you should feed your kitten in this article.
1. Special features of the digestive tract of kittens
Unlike adult cats, who can eat once or twice a day, kittens need several small meals a day.
The digestive tract of kittens is smaller and more sensitive. They have a higher metabolic rate and therefore require more frequent energy intake. These frequent meals help to keep blood sugar levels stable and support healthy growth and development. Young velvet paws cannot process large amounts of food at once very well, which is why smaller, regular meals are ideal.
2. Feeding kittens: The right frequency
Kittens should be fed about four to six times a day. This frequency ensures that they get enough nutrients and energy for their rapid growth and high level of activity. After all, every little velvet paw wants to have adventures.
It is important to control the amount of food to avoid overfeeding, but also to ensure that the kittens are getting enough food.
Fresh food should be offered regularly. Wet food can spoil quickly, so it is advisable to remove uneaten food after about 20 minutes and clean the food bowl thoroughly. Dry food can remain in the bowl for longer, but should also be checked daily and replaced if necessary.
3. Feeding kittens: The right food
It is perfectly possible to mix dry and wet food. This combination can have the benefit of increasing nutritional diversity while supporting dental health. Dry food helps to reduce plaque, while wet food provides more moisture, which is particularly important for kittens. Make sure that both types of food are of high quality and have been specially adapted for feeding kittens. You will always find this information on the packaging of good food. For example, it will say ‘Complete food for growing cats’ or ‘Complete food for kittens up to 12 months’.
Article tip: The right food for your kitten
Our Sanabelle Kitten is characterised above all by its increased protein and fat content. This is crucial for the good and even development of your little tiger and also provides it with sufficient energy for daily adventures. Of course, we have also adapted the vitamins and minerals to the special requirements of growing cats.
Article tip: Feeding recommendation: How to feed your kitten properly
4. Feeding kittens: Fresh water is essential
In addition to food, it is essential that your kitten has access to fresh water at all times. Dehydration can quickly lead to serious health problems in young cats. It is therefore important to ensure that the water is changed daily and the bowl is clean.
5. Do you have further questions about how often you should feed your kitten?
Feel free to contact our nutrition experts in confidence, they will be happy to help you by e-mail and by telephone via our free hotline.
Phone: +49 (0) 800 333 8 222 (toll-free)
E-mail: expertenteam@bosch-tiernahrung.de
Monday - Thursday: 7.30 am - 12 noon & 1 pm - 4 pm
Friday: 7.30 a.m. - 12 noon & 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.
About the author
Dr. Anna Mitura
Animal Nutrition Physiologist & Product Manager
I am a real Northern Lights and come from Schleswig-Holstein, where I grew up in a small village with dogs. The dog of my heart is called Rufus and is a 13-year-old giant schnauzer mix senior. As a product manager, I develop new recipes for dogs and cats, hold training courses and lectures for customers and dealers and advise you on our free service hotline.
