Evanger's Tips: Nutrition for Kittens

Much more than “miniature cats,” kittens require early nutrition that plays a major role in how healthy they’ll be as they mature through different life cycles. After four weeks of mother’s milk, they should gradually transition to food and be completely weaned by eight weeks.

According to the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), the recommended amount of protein for an adult cat is a minimum of 26% on a dry matter basis. That percentage increases to at least 30% for kittens so they can develop strong muscles and supporting tissue.

The best foods for kittens and adult cats are made with quality protein sources like fish, chicken, lamb or other named animal sources. Feline foods should also have minimal carbohydrates and grains, as cats thrive best on meat rich diets.

Because kittens have such high energy and smaller stomachs, they should eat at least three or four meals daily. While they enter their adolescence phase at around six months and may appear adult size, kittens are still growing. As the growth rate begins to decline, gradually feed them fewer and larger meals each day.

Combining protein-rich rabbit, beef and pork, Evanger's Grain-Free Meat Lover's Medley with Rabbit Dry Cat Food is formulated to meet the AAFCO’s nutritional levels for all life stages. This formula contains probiotics to support healthy immune and digestive systems, as well as flaxseed and omegas 3 and 6 for healthy joint, skin and coat.

Consider supplementing a dry diet with a nutrient-dense Super Supreme canned food for optimum health and digestion. Check out Evanger’s Beef Tips with Gravy, Catch of the Day, and Seafood & Caviar Dinner.