Can kittens eat adult cat food?

Knowing what to feed your new furry family member is a crucial part of being a good pet parent and sets the foundation for their future well-being.

Kittens have unique nutritional needs, especially during their first year. While they can eat adult cat food occasionally, it doesn’t give them the nutrients they need to grow properly. Adult cat food doesn’t have enough protein, fat, and essential vitamins for a growing kitten’s body and brain.

Feeding a kitten adult cat food regularly can lead to health problems like stunted growth and developmental delays. Instead, choose kitten-specific food, which is packed with everything they need for their energy, growth, and development. Once they’re around 12 months old, you can gradually switch them to adult food.

Why kitten food is different from adult food

Kitten food is packed with essential goodness for growing cats. It’s full of calories, protein, and nutrients to fuel their rapid growth. For example, kitten food contains extra taurine and omega-3 fatty acids to help their brains, eyes, and muscles develop. Adult food, on the other hand, is designed to maintain a grown-up cat’s weight and health—not meet the intense demands of kittenhood.

What about treats?

Kittens can have a small number of adult cat treats occasionally, but these should never replace proper meals. For the best option, choose treats made for kittens, as they’re designed to match their nutritional needs.

Can kittens eat dry food?

Yes, kittens can eat dry food, but it's best to introduce it gradually around 5-6 weeks old. Make sure to mix it with wet food at first to help with hydration, as kittens still need plenty of moisture. Choose high-quality kitten-specific dry food to meet their nutritional needs and avoid feeding too much dry food at once, as it can be harder for them to digest.

When can kittens switch to adult food?

Most kittens can start eating adult food at 12 months. Larger breeds, like Maine Coons, might need kitten food for up to 18 months. Make the switch gradually over a week or so to avoid upsetting their stomachs.

Transitioning kittens to adult cat food

Switching your kitten to adult cat food is an important part of their growth, usually happening around 12 months old when their nutritional needs change. Here’s a simple guide to help you through the process:

1. When to start: Begin the transition at 12 months. Larger breeds might need kitten food for up to 18 months due to slower growth.

2. Go slow: Gradually mix in more adult food over 7-10 days. Start with 25% adult food, and slowly increase the amount until they’re fully on adult food.

3. Watch for changes: Keep an eye on your kitten’s weight, stools, and behaviour. If they get an upset stomach, slow down the transition. Make sure they stay at a healthy weight.

4. Pick the right food: Choose a good-quality adult food based on your cat’s lifestyle (e.g., indoor, active, or weight control). It should have enough protein, healthy fats, and vitamins to keep them healthy.

5. Adjust portions: Follow the feeding guidelines on the packaging, but adjust portions based on your cat’s activity level. This helps prevent overfeeding or underfeeding.

6. Avoid stress: Don’t switch food during stressful times, like moving house or adding a new pet. Stress can upset their stomach and make the transition harder.

The British Veterinary Nursing Association advises that kittens need a protein-rich diet to grow properly, and adult food has different nutrient levels to suit fully grown cats. It’s important to make the switch when their energy needs reduce.

What if my kitten accidentally eats adult food?

If your kitten eats adult food by mistake, don’t panic. A small amount won’t cause harm, but it’s not ideal for their development. Just make sure it’s not a regular occurrence, and try to get them back to kitten food as soon as possible. If you notice any changes in their health, like digestive issues or weight loss, consult your vet for advice.

For more advice on how much to feed your kitten and how often, read our guide.

FAQ about kittens eating adult food