Like infant humans, kittens have specific dietary needs.  Infants develop very quickly and kittens need a diet that is rich in protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals to ensure that they become happy, healthy adult cats.  Muscles and supporting tissue require protein for proper development; fatty acids and fat-soluble vitamins need fat; and extra calories help your kitten to have the energy for their developmental needs.  As such, it is important that you take your kittens dietary needs seriously and choose foods that have been formulated for your kitten specifically.

There are a range of canned kitten foods that provide a range of benefits.  Not only are canned foods an excellent source of protein, but premium brands offer all the nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that your kitten needs to develop strong bones and healthy muscles as well as good dental hygiene.  More importantly, a premium canned kitten food is an excellent source of protein and calories that gives your kitten the energy they need during the first weeks of life, marked by intense growth.

Dry kitten foods are also important for your kitten’s health.  While also providing proteins, vitamins, and minerals, dry kitten foods are also packed with essential fats that help deliver vitamins as well as developing fatty acids that are essential for kitten health.  In fact, dry kitten foods are also rich in proteins and have been shown to help kittens with weight gain.

When it comes to your kitten’s nutrition, you can never be too careful.  The first few weeks of your kitten’s life represent a period of very quick growth and your kitten’s diet is a key element of this growth.  Kittens generally gain wait on a daily basis, so if you notice that your kitten is not growing you should contact your veterinarian immediately.