Kittens require particular nourishment to support their rapid growth and development from birth until they reach 12 months. After one year, a kitten is considered an adult cat and can gradually be introduced to adult cat food.
When can kittens eat cat food?
Importance of switching to adult cat food
When it comes to kittens, they grow and develop at a rapid pace. They are also playful and full of energy. Premium kitten food contains additional calories and the excellent quality of carbs, fats, and proteins to help kittens grow and stay active as they mature.
It also contains DHA, which can aid in developing the brain, vision, vitamins, and minerals essential for developing their immunity.
But when kittens reach adulthood, their nutrients requirements change. So feeding a mature cat adult cat food may result in stomach distress and lameness. Furthermore, adult cats are frequently less energetic; feeding them a high-calorie diet may result in obesity. So it is advised to shift to adult cat food when your kitten is more than one year.
The best way to transition your kitten onto adult cat food
It is recommended that you gradually convert your kitten from kitten food to adult cat food. This should be done over a 7-10 day period. To do this, gradually introduce the new food into your cat’s diet to avoid stomach problems resulting from the diet change.
Here’s how you can do it:
- Days 1-3: Serve three-quarters of the average kitten food and one-quarter of the new adult cat food.
- Days 4-5: Divide the food into two portions: 50 % adult cat food and 50% kitten food.
- Days 6-8: Feed a quarter of kitten food and one-third of adult kitty food.
- Days 9-10: Give only adult cat food.
If your kitty refuses the new adult cat food, you should moderate the diet transition and give your cat more time before increasing the amount of fresh adult cat food she consumes. Your vet can also provide you with additional information on transitioning from kitten food to adult cat food.
Tips from the proper transition from kitten to cat food
- Making the transition from one meal to another for your kitty too rapidly can make it more difficult. Ensure that your cat has solitude and a quiet dining location distant from other animals and loud music.
- Feed your kitty by hand in the beginning. The person who is providing the cat food must have a strong bond and understanding with the cat.
- Provide both moist and canned cat food in addition to dry cat food/kibble.
- Always check the quality and expiry of the cat food.
What human foods are toxic to cats?
It is important to remember that several human foods that are acceptable for us to consume can be highly toxic and hazardous for cats, so make sure your cat never eats any of the following:
- Garlic
- Raisins
- Onions
- Grapes
- Chocolate
- Caffeine
If your cat consumes any of the items listed above, please seek veterinarian assistance as soon as possible. Read more about the foods your cat shouldn’t eat?
When can kittens eat cat food?: Conclusion
Once kittens reach the age of 12 months, they should be switched to an adult cat diet to guarantee that they receive the correct nutrient levels for an adult cat. Even the most athletic adult pets will gain weight if they are fed kitten food. In addition, the labels on pet food are beneficial. Check the label thoroughly before purchasing cat food.
Always feed your cat premium quality cat food, and if you decide to feed your cat human food, be sure to provide it lean beef, cooked chicken, or simple plain meat.
