Mary Allen
Good quality, balanced food is very important for kittens because their metabolism has to work hard while they are growing and weaned from their mother’s milk. When choosing the food and when feeding, you should therefore pay attention to various important things.
In the First Four Weeks: Special Cat Milk for Kittens
Kittens only drink mother’s milk for the first four weeks of life. In exceptional cases, you may have to feed something extra – for example, if the mother cat does not have enough milk for all kittens, or you have an orphaned kitten at home. In these cases, the little ones need special rearing milk as a substitute for breast milk. At about four weeks of age, the kittens will try a little real food, but they are only completely weaned from milk between the sixth and tenth week of life.
Getting Used to Cat Food: High-Quality Food in Small Portions
When little kittens start eating real food, it’s a big adjustment for them. They are very susceptible to illness during this time and should be supported with good, nutrient-rich wet food. In the habituation phase, it makes sense to stay with the same brand of food and to offer the little ones a small, fresh portion at room temperature several times a day. You can also mix in some rearing milk to help the kittens transition.
Pay Attention to a Balanced Composition of the Ingredients
Since kittens only eat tiny portions, their food should be a very good source of energy and provide them with everything they need. High-quality protein, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids in the right combination are essential for kittens. Choose easily digestible, nutrient-rich cat food with a high meat content and no sugar for your protégés, and get advice from your vet if you have any questions about the right cat food.
Always Provide Sufficient Fresh Water
Food and water should always be freshly available to your kittens. Change out the food 3 to 4 times a day if anything is left in the bowl and also top up the water at least once a day. It is best to check the water several times a day for contamination and also make sure that the kittens can drink well from the bowl – it should be a little shallower and wider than that for adult house tigers.