How Much Should a Kitten Eat? Feeding Amounts by Age and Weight
Kittens grow at astonishing speed. A newborn weighs about the same as a stick of butter, and doubles its weight in a week. By six months, many are near adult size. Fueling that growth takes a lot of food, but kittens can still be overfed. Here is how to get it right.
Why kittens need so much
A kitten needs energy for growth, play and keeping warm, along with protein, fat, calcium, phosphorus and taurine for bones, brain and muscles. Per pound of body weight, a kitten needs two to three times the calories of an adult cat. Feed a food labeled for growth, or all life stages, which is formulated with the right levels. See cat food aafco statement explained and best food for kittens.
Approximate daily calories
These are rough guides for healthy kittens. Individual needs vary, so use them with the food's feeding guide and your vet's advice.
| Age | Typical weight | Approximate calories per day | Meals per day |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 to 8 weeks (weaning) | 1 to 2 lb | 100 to 200 | 4 to 5 |
| 8 to 12 weeks | 2 to 3 lb | 200 to 250 | 4 |
| 3 to 6 months | 3 to 6 lb | 250 to 300 | 3 |
| 6 to 12 months | 6 to 9 lb | 200 to 280 | 2 to 3 |
See calories in cat food explained for how to turn these into cans and cups.
Wet, dry or both
- Wet food provides moisture and is easy to eat, particularly during weaning.
- Dry food is convenient, and good for puzzle feeders.
- A mix is common and practical.
Check that every food is complete and balanced for growth. Use a measuring cup or scale. See wet vs dry cat food.
Meal structure
- Four to eight weeks: start offering moistened kitten food alongside mother's milk or formula, then move to four meals a day. See how to wean kittens.
- Two to four months: three to four meals.
- Four to six months: three meals.
- Six months onward: two or three meals.
Free feeding or measured meals
Young kittens often do well with food available all day, since their stomachs are small. As they grow, moving to measured meals prevents overeating and teaches routine. Feed at set times, and remove uneaten wet food after thirty minutes. See free feeding vs meal feeding.
Is my kitten growing well?
- Weigh weekly. Kittens typically gain about 3 to 4 ounces per week in the first months.
- Look at body shape. A healthy kitten is rounded but not fat, with ribs that are easy to feel but not visible.
- Check energy, coat and stools.
See kitten weight chart and kitten growth and development week by week.
Signs of too little food
Constant crying, thin body, visible ribs, a dull coat, slow weight gain or lethargy. Call your vet.
Signs of too much
A pot belly that is hard and swollen can also come from worms. Rapid weight gain and loose stool can come from overfeeding. See kitten deworming guide and kitten diarrhea.
Changing foods
Make changes slowly over a week. See how to switch cat foods. Sudden switches can cause diarrhea.
When to switch to adult food
Most kittens move to adult food around twelve months. Large breeds, such as Maine Coons, may stay on kitten food longer, up to eighteen months. Neutered kittens may gain weight, so adjust. Ask your vet. See feeding a neutered or spayed cat.
What not to feed
- Cow's milk. See can cats drink milk.
- Dog food. See can cats eat dog food.
- Raw diets. See raw food diets for cats.
- Onions, chocolate and other toxins. See cat poisoning: what to do.
- Adult food only, unless advised.
Treats
Keep treats to ten percent or less of calories, and use them for training. See healthy cat treats.
Water
Provide fresh water in a wide, shallow dish. See how to get a cat to drink more water.
A sample day for a four-month-old
A kitten of about four pounds might eat three meals: breakfast of wet kitten food, a midday portion of dry food in a puzzle feeder and a wet dinner. Together these provide the calories on the package guide. Play before each meal, and a little cuddle after. Adjust amounts every two weeks by weight and body shape. If the kitten leaves food, reduce portions slightly. If it licks the bowl and cries, add a little, or add a small extra meal. Always keep a bowl of fresh water out.
Special cases
Kittens that are underweight, sick or from large litters may need more. Fat kittens need less. Your vet will help set targets.
When to see a vet
See a vet if your kitten refuses food, loses weight or is not growing. Use the US vet directory to find a clinic.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a 2-month-old kitten eat?
Often about 200 to 250 calories per day for a healthy kitten, in four small meals, though it varies.
Should kittens eat as much as they want?
Many do fine with free access at first, but watch weight and move to measured meals.
When do I switch to adult food?
Usually around one year, later for large breeds, as your vet advises.
Is milk good for kittens?
Cow's milk is not. Use kitten milk replacer only for orphans.
Sources and further reading
We link to recognised organizations so you can check the basics for yourself. We have no commercial relationship with any site listed here.
- Cat Friendly Homes (AAFP and ISFM)Cat-specific care guidance and a finder for cat-friendly practices.
- ASPCA cat careEveryday care, behavior and safety basics for cats.
- American Veterinary Medical Association: pet owner resourcesPolicy-level guidance from the national veterinary association.
Tailwisp is independent and written under our editorial policy. Learn who we are, or browse all cat guides.