{"id":25236,"date":"2026-08-02T14:29:56","date_gmt":"2026-08-02T09:29:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/?p=25236"},"modified":"2026-08-02T14:29:56","modified_gmt":"2026-08-02T09:29:56","slug":"10-best-kitten-foods-that-fuel-healthy-growth-vet-approved","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/?p=25236","title":{"rendered":"10 Best Kitten Foods That Fuel Healthy Growth, Vet-Approved"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><script>\r\n  atOptions = {\r\n    'key' : '644b717812d811d6a1c1fc5b6ccd6fa6',\r\n    'format' : 'iframe',\r\n    'height' : 90,\r\n    'width' : 728,\r\n    'params' : {}\r\n  };\r\n<\/script>\r\n<script src=\"https:\/\/www.highperformanceformat.com\/644b717812d811d6a1c1fc5b6ccd6fa6\/invoke.js\"><\/script>\r\n<br \/>\n<\/p>\n<div xmlns:default=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n<p id=\"anchor-743a64\" class=\"body-graf\">Ensuring your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/new-kitten-checklist-rcna150829\" target=\"_blank\">kitten<\/a> grows into a healthy adult cat starts with their diet. The best kitten food supports their development throughout their first year of life and makes them look forward to mealtime. But with dozens of options on the market, how do pet parents decide what dry and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-wet-cat-food-rcna188194\" target=\"_blank\">wet food<\/a> to buy? <\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-35058d\" class=\"body-graf\">Below, veterinarians break down what to consider while picking a kitten food, including options from Purina, Fancy Feast and Hill\u2019s Science Diet. Experts also shared insights about how much and how often to feed your kitten, plus when to transition them to adult <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-cat-food-ncna1235804\" target=\"_blank\">cat food<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-fdedaf\" class=\"body-graf\"><em><strong>Want more from NBC Selected? <\/strong><\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/link.nbcnews.com\/join\/5cj\/nbc-news-select-signup-pd\" target=\"_blank\"><em><strong>Sign up <\/strong><\/em><\/a><em><strong>for our newsletter, The Selection, and shop smarter.<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-kitten-food-rcna151329#anchor-ae4124\" id=\"anchor-ae4124\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"body-heading\">The best kitten food in 2026<\/h2>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-3075e5\" class=\"body-graf\">All of the food below, which includes NBC Selected staff favorites and highly-rated options, is specifically formulated for kittens, meets AAFCO nutrition standards and has a meat source as the first ingredient, per expert recommendations.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-kitten-food-rcna151329#anchor-958c4a\" id=\"anchor-958c4a\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"body-heading\">The best dry kitten food<\/h2>\n<p><\/a><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-kitten-food-rcna151329#anchor-b415e8\" id=\"anchor-b415e8\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"body-heading\">Best overall<\/h3>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<div id=\"anchor-800759\">\n<div id=\"rcpd22909\" class=\"styles_product__lnrKX\" data-testid=\"article-product-unit\">\n<div class=\"listicleProduct dn-print  product__grid-container--small\" data-activity-map=\"listicle-product-article-body-iams-proactive-health-kitten-dry-cat-food\" data-testid=\"product-container\">\n<div class=\"product__grid-row\">\n<div class=\"product__border\">\n<div class=\"df flex-column items-stretch product__card-container flex-row-m\">\n<div class=\"product__pictureLink product__picture-link db-m dn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B01BMBPOF6?tag=kittenfoodrcna151329-20\" data-product-id=\"rcpd22909\" data-aps-asc-tag=\"kittenfoodrcna151329-20\" data-aps-asin=\"B01BMBPOF6\" rel=\"sponsored noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\" data-testid=\"product-picture-link\" class=\"w-100\"><picture class=\"\" data-testid=\"picture\" data-flavor=\"fit\" data-original-height=\"500\" data-original-width=\"500\"><source media=\"(min-width: 1240px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-1dd844.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-1dd844.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 1000px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-1dd844.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-1dd844.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 758px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-360w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-1dd844.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-360w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-1dd844.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 320px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-1dd844.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-1dd844.jpg 1x\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-1dd844.jpg\" alt=\"Iams ProActive Health Kitten Dry Cat Food\" height=\"500\" width=\"500\"\/><\/picture><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"styles_accordion__Z2nEy styles_accordion__Z_3zC undefined styles_closed__PAn2s\" data-testid=\"accordion\" data-title=\"What to know\">\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-button\" class=\"styles_accordion__content__09JIS styles_accordion__content__NO3i2 styles_closed__PAn2s\" data-testid=\"accordion__content\" role=\"region\" tabindex=\"-1\">\n<p><strong>Size:<\/strong> <span><em>3.5 lb., 7 lb. or 16 lb. bag <\/em><\/span>\u00a0| <strong>First ingredient:<\/strong> <span><em>c<\/em><em>hicken<\/em><\/span>\u00a0| <strong>Other flavors:<\/strong> <span><em>salmon<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"styles_prosConsContainer__bhblj\" data-testid=\"listicle-product__pros-cons-container\" data-activity-map=\"product-article-body-iams-proactive-health-kitten-dry-cat-food\">\n<div class=\"styles_prosConsChild__qnk7K\">\n<p>What we like<\/p>\n<ul class=\"styles_prosConsItems__rVNhO\">\n<li>Small kibble size<\/li>\n<li>Filler-free<\/li>\n<li>Vitamin E<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"styles_prosConsChild__qnk7K\">\n<p>Something to note<\/p>\n<ul class=\"styles_prosConsItems__rVNhO\">\n<li>Nothing to note at this time<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"anchor-f6d27c\" class=\"body-graf\">Iams\u2019 kibble is small in size, making it\u2019s easy for kittens to chew. It\u2019s made without fillers, artificial flavors or artificial preservatives. It contains nutrients similar to those in kittens\u2019 mother\u2019s milk, like vitamin E, which supports the immune system. The food also has omega-3 DHA, as well as fiber and prebiotics for healthy digestion.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-kitten-food-rcna151329#anchor-3c7cc1\" id=\"anchor-3c7cc1\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"body-heading\">Editor\u2019s pick<\/h3>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<div id=\"anchor-7057c8\">\n<div id=\"rcpd22946\" class=\"styles_product__lnrKX\" data-testid=\"article-product-unit\">\n<div class=\"listicleProduct dn-print  product__grid-container--small\" data-activity-map=\"listicle-product-article-body-wellness-complete-health-natural-dry-kitten-food\" data-testid=\"product-container\">\n<div class=\"product__grid-row\">\n<div class=\"product__border\">\n<div class=\"df flex-column items-stretch product__card-container flex-row-m\">\n<div class=\"product__pictureLink product__picture-link db-m dn\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/media1.s-nbcnews.com\/i\/rockcms\/2025-05\/392840\/badge-nbcselect-editors-picks-327ff6_6b24078911a03a0e8185a3148de6a2cd73d5cefe.png\" class=\"styles_badge__HTFiY\" alt=\"Editor's Pick\"\/><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Wellness-Natural-Pet-Food-Complete\/dp\/B09KMC8J3N?tag=kittenfoodrcna151329-20\" data-product-id=\"rcpd22946\" data-aps-asc-tag=\"kittenfoodrcna151329-20\" data-aps-asin=\"B09KMC8J3N\" rel=\"sponsored noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\" data-testid=\"product-picture-link\" class=\"w-100\"><picture class=\"\" data-testid=\"picture\" data-flavor=\"fit\" data-original-height=\"500\" data-original-width=\"500\"><source media=\"(min-width: 1240px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-5a1c4f.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-5a1c4f.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 1000px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-5a1c4f.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-5a1c4f.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 758px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-360w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-5a1c4f.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-360w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-5a1c4f.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 320px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-5a1c4f.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-5a1c4f.jpg 1x\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-5a1c4f.jpg\" alt=\"Wellness Complete Health Natural Dry Kitten Food\" height=\"500\" width=\"500\"\/><\/picture><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"styles_accordion__Z2nEy styles_accordion__Z_3zC undefined styles_closed__PAn2s\" data-testid=\"accordion\" data-title=\"What to know\">\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-button\" class=\"styles_accordion__content__09JIS styles_accordion__content__NO3i2 styles_closed__PAn2s\" data-testid=\"accordion__content\" role=\"region\" tabindex=\"-1\">\n<p><strong>Size:<\/strong> <span><em>5 lb. bag<\/em><\/span>\u00a0| <strong>First ingredient:<\/strong> <span><em>deboned chicken <\/em><\/span>\u00a0| <strong>Other flavors:<\/strong> <span><em>salmon, turkey and chicken<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"styles_prosConsContainer__bhblj\" data-testid=\"listicle-product__pros-cons-container\" data-activity-map=\"product-article-body-wellness-complete-health-natural-dry-kitten-food\">\n<div class=\"styles_prosConsChild__qnk7K\">\n<p>What we like<\/p>\n<ul class=\"styles_prosConsItems__rVNhO\">\n<li>Small kibble size<\/li>\n<li>Prebiotics and probiotics<\/li>\n<li>Vitamins A, E and zinc<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"styles_prosConsChild__qnk7K\">\n<p>Something to note<\/p>\n<ul class=\"styles_prosConsItems__rVNhO\">\n<li>One flavor available<\/li>\n<li>One size available<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"anchor-867f01\" class=\"body-graf\">My cat Lucy ate Wellness Complete Health\u2019s dry kitten food before I adopted her, so I continued feeding it to her at home. The small, pellet-shaped kibble is made with natural ingredients and does not contain meat by-products, fillers or artificial preservatives. It\u2019s formulated with vitamins A, E and zinc to support immune health; calcium and phosphorus to support the bones and muscles; and prebiotics, probiotics and fiber to support digestive health.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-kitten-food-rcna151329#anchor-980aeb\" id=\"anchor-980aeb\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"body-heading\">Best natural kitten food<\/h3>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<div id=\"anchor-e71d7a\">\n<div id=\"rcpd22917\" class=\"styles_product__lnrKX\" data-testid=\"article-product-unit\">\n<div class=\"listicleProduct dn-print  product__grid-container--small\" data-activity-map=\"listicle-product-article-body-hill\u2019s-science-diet-kitten-healthy-development-chicken-recipe-dry-cat-food\" data-testid=\"product-container\">\n<div class=\"product__grid-row\">\n<div class=\"product__border\">\n<div class=\"df flex-column items-stretch product__card-container flex-row-m\">\n<div class=\"product__pictureLink product__picture-link db-m dn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Hills-Science-Diet-Kitten-Chicken\/dp\/B001VJ3GEQ?tag=kittenfoodrcna151329-20\" data-product-id=\"rcpd22917\" data-aps-asc-tag=\"kittenfoodrcna151329-20\" data-aps-asin=\"B001VJ3GEQ\" rel=\"sponsored noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\" data-testid=\"product-picture-link\" class=\"w-100\"><picture class=\"\" data-testid=\"picture\" data-flavor=\"fit\" data-original-height=\"500\" data-original-width=\"500\"><source media=\"(min-width: 1240px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-1d9b3d.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-1d9b3d.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 1000px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-1d9b3d.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-1d9b3d.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 758px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-360w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-1d9b3d.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-360w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-1d9b3d.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 320px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-1d9b3d.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-1d9b3d.jpg 1x\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-1d9b3d.jpg\" alt=\"Hill\u2019s Science Diet Kitten Healthy Development Chicken Recipe Dry Cat Food\" height=\"500\" width=\"500\"\/><\/picture><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"styles_accordion__Z2nEy styles_accordion__Z_3zC undefined styles_closed__PAn2s\" data-testid=\"accordion\" data-title=\"What to know\">\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-button\" class=\"styles_accordion__content__09JIS styles_accordion__content__NO3i2 styles_closed__PAn2s\" data-testid=\"accordion__content\" role=\"region\" tabindex=\"-1\">\n<p><strong>Size:<\/strong> <span><em>3.5 lb., 7 lb. and 15.5 lb. bag <\/em><\/span>\u00a0| <strong>First ingredient:<\/strong> <span><em>chicken<\/em><\/span>\u00a0| <strong>Other flavors:<\/strong> <span><em>seafood<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"styles_prosConsContainer__bhblj\" data-testid=\"listicle-product__pros-cons-container\" data-activity-map=\"product-article-body-hill\u2019s-science-diet-kitten-healthy-development-chicken-recipe-dry-cat-food\">\n<div class=\"styles_prosConsChild__qnk7K\">\n<p>What we like<\/p>\n<ul class=\"styles_prosConsItems__rVNhO\">\n<li>Two flavors available<\/li>\n<li>Small kibble size<\/li>\n<li>Prebiotics<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"styles_prosConsChild__qnk7K\">\n<p>Something to note<\/p>\n<ul class=\"styles_prosConsItems__rVNhO\">\n<li>Nothing to note at this time<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"anchor-5b3ba3\" class=\"body-graf\">Hill\u2019s Science Diet\u2019s dry kitten food is made with all-natural ingredients, and it\u2019s free from chicken by-product meal, artificial flavors, synthetic colors and artificial preservatives. The kibble is small and pellet-shaped, making it easy for kittens to chew. It\u2019s formulated with DHA from fish oil, an antioxidant blend of vitamins C and E to support the immune system, and prebiotics to support the gut microbiome and digestive system. You can also purchase a version of this dry kitten food that does not contain <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Hills-Science-Diet-Kitten-Chicken\/dp\/B083FHQYM2?tag=kittenfoodrcna151329-20\" rel=\"sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" data-commerce-encoding=\"true\" data-seller-id=\"ncrg916911\" data-seller-affiliate-encoded-url=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Hills-Science-Diet-Kitten-Chicken\/dp\/B083FHQYM2?tag=kittenfoodrcna151329-20\">corn, wheat or soy<\/a> if your cat is sensitive to those ingredients.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-kitten-food-rcna151329#anchor-3d6969\" id=\"anchor-3d6969\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"body-heading\">Best pate<\/h3>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<div id=\"anchor-94fbbf\">\n<div id=\"rcpd22951\" class=\"styles_product__lnrKX\" data-testid=\"article-product-unit\">\n<div class=\"listicleProduct dn-print  product__grid-container--small\" data-activity-map=\"listicle-product-article-body-blue-buffalo-baby-blue-natural-kitten-wet-cat-food\" data-testid=\"product-container\">\n<div class=\"product__grid-row\">\n<div class=\"product__border\">\n<div class=\"df flex-column items-stretch product__card-container flex-row-m\">\n<div class=\"product__pictureLink product__picture-link db-m dn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ncls1.com\/irk?o=nthd73&amp;s=515050&amp;subid=nbcnews.com&amp;bkd=chewy.com&amp;di=kittenfoodrcna151329&amp;d=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.chewy.com%2Fblue-buffalo-baby-blue-healthy-growth%2Fdp%2F502254%3Futm_source%3Dpartnerize%26utm_medium%3Daffiliates%26utm_campaign%3D305950%26utm_content%3D0%26clickref%3D1100lzZHjhVL%26utm_term%3D1100lzZHjhVL&amp;arid=rcna151329&amp;aurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nbcnews.com%2Fselect%2Fshopping%2Fbest-kitten-food-rcna151329&amp;srnm=direct_desktop\" data-product-id=\"rcpd22951\" rel=\"sponsored noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\" data-testid=\"product-picture-link\" class=\"w-100\"><picture class=\"\" data-testid=\"picture\" data-flavor=\"fit\" data-original-height=\"500\" data-original-width=\"500\"><source media=\"(min-width: 1240px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-d30c94.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-d30c94.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 1000px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-d30c94.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-d30c94.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 758px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-360w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-d30c94.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-360w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-d30c94.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 320px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-d30c94.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-d30c94.jpg 1x\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-d30c94.jpg\" alt=\"Blue Buffalo Baby Blue Natural Kitten Wet Cat Food\" height=\"500\" width=\"500\"\/><\/picture><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"styles_accordion__Z2nEy styles_accordion__Z_3zC undefined styles_closed__PAn2s\" data-testid=\"accordion\" data-title=\"What to know\">\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-button\" class=\"styles_accordion__content__09JIS styles_accordion__content__NO3i2 styles_closed__PAn2s\" data-testid=\"accordion__content\" role=\"region\" tabindex=\"-1\">\n<p><strong>Size:<\/strong> <span><em>6 or 24 3 oz. cans<\/em><\/span>\u00a0| <strong> First ingredient:<\/strong> <span><em>chicken <\/em><\/span>\u00a0| <strong>Other flavors:<\/strong> <span><em>none<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"styles_prosConsContainer__bhblj\" data-testid=\"listicle-product__pros-cons-container\" data-activity-map=\"product-article-body-blue-buffalo-baby-blue-natural-kitten-wet-cat-food\">\n<div class=\"styles_prosConsChild__qnk7K\">\n<p>What we like<\/p>\n<ul class=\"styles_prosConsItems__rVNhO\">\n<li>Free from corn, wheat and soy<\/li>\n<li>Natural ingredients<\/li>\n<li>Fish oil<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"anchor-765a2d\" class=\"body-graf\">Blue Buffalo\u2019s wet kitten food is made with real chicken, not poultry by-products. It\u2019s also free from corn, wheat and soy, as well as artificial flavors and preservatives. It has a pate texture, and is formulated with fish oil as a source of DHA and natural ingredients like brown rice, flaxseeds, sweet potatoes and carrots.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-kitten-food-rcna151329#anchor-e4d5a6\" id=\"anchor-e4d5a6\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"body-heading\">Best grain-free<\/h3>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<div id=\"anchor-abecc1\">\n<div id=\"rcpd22944\" class=\"styles_product__lnrKX\" data-testid=\"article-product-unit\">\n<div class=\"listicleProduct dn-print  product__grid-container--small\" data-activity-map=\"listicle-product-article-body-merrick-purrfect-bistro-grain-free-healthy-kitten-recipe-dry-food\" data-testid=\"product-container\">\n<div class=\"product__grid-row\">\n<div class=\"product__border\">\n<div class=\"df flex-column items-stretch product__card-container flex-row-m\">\n<div class=\"product__pictureLink product__picture-link db-m dn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ncls1.com\/irk?o=nthd73&amp;s=515050&amp;subid=nbcnews.com&amp;bkd=chewy.com&amp;di=kittenfoodrcna151329&amp;d=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.chewy.com%2Fmerrick-purrfect-bistro-grain-free%2Fdp%2F49259&amp;arid=rcna151329&amp;aurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nbcnews.com%2Fselect%2Fshopping%2Fbest-kitten-food-rcna151329&amp;srnm=direct_desktop\" data-product-id=\"rcpd22944\" rel=\"sponsored noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\" data-testid=\"product-picture-link\" class=\"w-100\"><picture class=\"\" data-testid=\"picture\" data-flavor=\"fit\" data-original-height=\"500\" data-original-width=\"500\"><source media=\"(min-width: 1240px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-7ff4b5.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-7ff4b5.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 1000px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-7ff4b5.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-7ff4b5.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 758px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-360w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-7ff4b5.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-360w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-7ff4b5.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 320px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-7ff4b5.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-7ff4b5.jpg 1x\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-7ff4b5.jpg\" alt=\"Merrick Purrfect Bistro Grain-Free Healthy Kitten Recipe Dry Food\" height=\"500\" width=\"500\"\/><\/picture><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"styles_accordion__Z2nEy styles_accordion__Z_3zC undefined styles_closed__PAn2s\" data-testid=\"accordion\" data-title=\"What to know\">\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-button\" class=\"styles_accordion__content__09JIS styles_accordion__content__NO3i2 styles_closed__PAn2s\" data-testid=\"accordion__content\" role=\"region\" tabindex=\"-1\">\n<p><strong>Size:<\/strong> <span><em>4 lb. bag<\/em> <\/span>\u00a0| <strong>First ingredient:<\/strong> <span><em>deboned chicken<\/em><\/span>\u00a0| <strong>Other flavors:<\/strong> <span><em>none<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"styles_prosConsContainer__bhblj\" data-testid=\"listicle-product__pros-cons-container\" data-activity-map=\"product-article-body-merrick-purrfect-bistro-grain-free-healthy-kitten-recipe-dry-food\">\n<div class=\"styles_prosConsChild__qnk7K\">\n<p>What we like<\/p>\n<ul class=\"styles_prosConsItems__rVNhO\">\n<li>Grain-free<\/li>\n<li>Small kibble size<\/li>\n<li>Omega-6 &amp; omega-3 fatty acids<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"anchor-b60c19\" class=\"body-graf\">I fed my cat Wanda Merrick\u2019s grain-free dry kitten food when I first adopted her at two months old. Although she had only a few teeth, she happily ate this small, pellet-shaped kibble. It has natural ingredients like deboned chicken, salmon oil, potatoes and cranberries. It has probiotics that support digestion, antioxidants that support the immune system and omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids that support the skin and fur. The dry food is also made without artificial colors, flavors or preservatives.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-kitten-food-rcna151329#anchor-7f7534\" id=\"anchor-7f7534\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"body-heading\">The best wet kitten food<\/h2>\n<p><\/a><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-kitten-food-rcna151329#anchor-8664b6\" id=\"anchor-8664b6\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"body-heading\">Best overall<\/h3>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<div id=\"anchor-230c1e\">\n<div id=\"rcpd22947\" class=\"styles_product__lnrKX\" data-testid=\"article-product-unit\">\n<div class=\"listicleProduct dn-print  product__grid-container--small\" data-activity-map=\"listicle-product-article-body-fancy-feast-kitten-tender-ocean-whitefish-feast-canned-cat-food\" data-testid=\"product-container\">\n<div class=\"product__grid-row\">\n<div class=\"product__border\">\n<div class=\"df flex-column items-stretch product__card-container flex-row-m\">\n<div class=\"product__pictureLink product__picture-link db-m dn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ncls1.com\/irk?o=nthd73&amp;s=515050&amp;subid=nbcnews.com&amp;bkd=chewy.com&amp;di=kittenfoodrcna151329&amp;d=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.chewy.com%2Ffancy-feast-kitten-tender-ocean%2Fdp%2F103973&amp;arid=rcna151329&amp;aurl=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nbcnews.com%2Fselect%2Fshopping%2Fbest-kitten-food-rcna151329&amp;srnm=direct_desktop\" data-product-id=\"rcpd22947\" rel=\"sponsored noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\" data-testid=\"product-picture-link\" class=\"w-100\"><picture class=\"\" data-testid=\"picture\" data-flavor=\"fit\" data-original-height=\"500\" data-original-width=\"500\"><source media=\"(min-width: 1240px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-d7e990.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-d7e990.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 1000px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-d7e990.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-d7e990.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 758px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-360w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-d7e990.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-360w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-d7e990.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 320px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-d7e990.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-d7e990.jpg 1x\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-d7e990.jpg\" alt=\"Fancy Feast Kitten Tender Ocean Whitefish Feast Canned Cat Food\" height=\"500\" width=\"500\"\/><\/picture><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"styles_accordion__Z2nEy styles_accordion__Z_3zC undefined styles_closed__PAn2s\" data-testid=\"accordion\" data-title=\"What to know\">\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-button\" class=\"styles_accordion__content__09JIS styles_accordion__content__NO3i2 styles_closed__PAn2s\" data-testid=\"accordion__content\" role=\"region\" tabindex=\"-1\">\n<p><strong>Size:<\/strong> <span><em>4, 24 or 72 3 oz. cans<\/em> <\/span>\u00a0| <strong>First ingredient:<\/strong> <span><em>ocean whitefish<\/em><\/span>\u00a0| <strong>Other flavors:<\/strong> <span><em>chicken, turkey, salmon<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"styles_prosConsContainer__bhblj\" data-testid=\"listicle-product__pros-cons-container\" data-activity-map=\"product-article-body-fancy-feast-kitten-tender-ocean-whitefish-feast-canned-cat-food\">\n<div class=\"styles_prosConsChild__qnk7K\">\n<p>What we like<\/p>\n<ul class=\"styles_prosConsItems__rVNhO\">\n<li>Pate texture<\/li>\n<li>Rich in vitamins<\/li>\n<li>Multiple flavors available<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"anchor-275a41\" class=\"body-graf\">Both of my cats were picky about their wet food as kittens, but they always ate this Fancy Feast formula without hesitation. It\u2019s made with real milk and vitamins like E, B-12 and D-3. The wet food has a pate texture and does not contain artificial preservatives or colors.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-kitten-food-rcna151329#anchor-33e1e9\" id=\"anchor-33e1e9\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"body-heading\">Best for picky eaters<\/h3>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<div id=\"anchor-e29efd\">\n<div id=\"rcpd22950\" class=\"styles_product__lnrKX\" data-testid=\"article-product-unit\">\n<div class=\"listicleProduct dn-print  product__grid-container--small\" data-activity-map=\"listicle-product-article-body-hill\u2019s-science-diet-kitten-liver-&amp;-chicken-entree-canned-cat-food\" data-testid=\"product-container\">\n<div class=\"product__grid-row\">\n<div class=\"product__border\">\n<div class=\"df flex-column items-stretch product__card-container flex-row-m\">\n<div class=\"product__pictureLink product__picture-link db-m dn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Hills-Science-Diet-Kitten-Chicken\/dp\/B01MZ92WNE?tag=kittenfoodrcna151329-20\" data-product-id=\"rcpd22950\" data-aps-asc-tag=\"kittenfoodrcna151329-20\" data-aps-asin=\"B01MZ92WNE\" rel=\"sponsored noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\" data-testid=\"product-picture-link\" class=\"w-100\"><picture class=\"\" data-testid=\"picture\" data-flavor=\"fit\" data-original-height=\"500\" data-original-width=\"500\"><source media=\"(min-width: 1240px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-8cd119.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-8cd119.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 1000px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-8cd119.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-8cd119.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 758px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-360w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-8cd119.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-360w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-8cd119.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 320px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-8cd119.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-8cd119.jpg 1x\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-8cd119.jpg\" alt=\"Hill\u2019s Science Diet Kitten Liver &amp; Chicken Entree Canned Cat Food\" height=\"500\" width=\"500\"\/><\/picture><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"styles_accordion__Z2nEy styles_accordion__Z_3zC undefined styles_closed__PAn2s\" data-testid=\"accordion\" data-title=\"What to know\">\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-button\" class=\"styles_accordion__content__09JIS styles_accordion__content__NO3i2 styles_closed__PAn2s\" data-testid=\"accordion__content\" role=\"region\" tabindex=\"-1\">\n<p><strong>Size:<\/strong> <span><em>24 2.9 oz. or 5.5 oz. cans<\/em> <\/span>\u00a0| <strong>First ingredient:<\/strong> <span><em>pork liver <\/em><\/span>\u00a0| <strong>Other flavors:<\/strong> <span><em>chicken, roasted chicken and rice, salmon, savory turkey<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"styles_prosConsContainer__bhblj\" data-testid=\"listicle-product__pros-cons-container\" data-activity-map=\"product-article-body-hill\u2019s-science-diet-kitten-liver-&amp;-chicken-entree-canned-cat-food\">\n<div class=\"styles_prosConsChild__qnk7K\">\n<p>What we like<\/p>\n<ul class=\"styles_prosConsItems__rVNhO\">\n<li>Multiple flavors available<\/li>\n<li>Multiple sizes available<\/li>\n<li>Natural ingredients<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"styles_prosConsChild__qnk7K\">\n<p>Something to note<\/p>\n<ul class=\"styles_prosConsItems__rVNhO\">\n<li>Nothing to note at this time<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"anchor-608824\" class=\"body-graf\">This wet food is available in five protein-rich flavors, so you can experiment with different options until you find the one your kitten likes best. It is made with easily digestible ingredients, as well as vitamins C and E, to support young cats\u2019 immune systems. It also has DHA from fish oil in its formula, plus prebiotic fibers to keep the gut microbiome and digestive system healthy.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-kitten-food-rcna151329#anchor-3cf362\" id=\"anchor-3cf362\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"body-heading\">Best grain-free<\/h3>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<div id=\"anchor-602f5b\">\n<div id=\"rcpd22948\" class=\"styles_product__lnrKX\" data-testid=\"article-product-unit\">\n<div class=\"listicleProduct dn-print  product__grid-container--small\" data-activity-map=\"listicle-product-article-body-wellness-complete-health-grain-free-whitefish-&amp;-tuna-entr\u00e9e-wet-canned-kitten-food\" data-testid=\"product-container\">\n<div class=\"product__grid-row\">\n<div class=\"product__border\">\n<div class=\"df flex-column items-stretch product__card-container flex-row-m\">\n<div class=\"product__pictureLink product__picture-link db-m dn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Wellness-Complete-Food-Variety-Whitefish\/dp\/B09HJGJ2KM?tag=kittenfoodrcna151329-20\" data-product-id=\"rcpd22948\" data-aps-asc-tag=\"kittenfoodrcna151329-20\" data-aps-asin=\"B09HJGJ2KM\" rel=\"sponsored noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\" data-testid=\"product-picture-link\" class=\"w-100\"><picture class=\"\" data-testid=\"picture\" data-flavor=\"fit\" data-original-height=\"500\" data-original-width=\"500\"><source media=\"(min-width: 1240px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-cb8b7a.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-cb8b7a.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 1000px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-cb8b7a.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-cb8b7a.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 758px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-360w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-cb8b7a.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-360w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-cb8b7a.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 320px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-cb8b7a.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-cb8b7a.jpg 1x\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-cb8b7a.jpg\" alt=\"Wellness Complete Health Grain-Free Whitefish &amp; Tuna Entr\u00e9e Wet Canned Kitten Food\" height=\"500\" width=\"500\"\/><\/picture><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"styles_accordion__Z2nEy styles_accordion__Z_3zC undefined styles_closed__PAn2s\" data-testid=\"accordion\" data-title=\"What to know\">\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-button\" class=\"styles_accordion__content__09JIS styles_accordion__content__NO3i2 styles_closed__PAn2s\" data-testid=\"accordion__content\" role=\"region\" tabindex=\"-1\">\n<p><strong>Size:<\/strong> <span><em>12 or 24 3 oz. or 5.5 oz. cans<\/em><\/span>\u00a0| <strong>First ingredient:<\/strong> <span><em>whitefish <\/em><\/span>\u00a0| <strong>Other flavors:<\/strong> <span><em>chicken<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"styles_prosConsContainer__bhblj\" data-testid=\"listicle-product__pros-cons-container\" data-activity-map=\"product-article-body-wellness-complete-health-grain-free-whitefish-&amp;-tuna-entr\u00e9e-wet-canned-kitten-food\">\n<div class=\"styles_prosConsChild__qnk7K\">\n<p>What we like<\/p>\n<ul class=\"styles_prosConsItems__rVNhO\">\n<li>Grain-free<\/li>\n<li>Multiple flavors<\/li>\n<li>Multiple can sizes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"styles_prosConsChild__qnk7K\">\n<p>Something to note<\/p>\n<ul class=\"styles_prosConsItems__rVNhO\">\n<li>Nothing to note at this time<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"anchor-2d2644\" class=\"body-graf\">I\u2019ve also fed my kittens Wellness Complete Health\u2019s wet food, which is free from grains, corn, wheat and soy. It has a smooth pate texture and contains natural ingredients like carrots, pumpkin, flaxseeds and cranberries. The food\u2019s formula has fish oil as a source of DHA and prebiotics for digestion support. You can purchase the wet kitten food in a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Wellness-Complete-Food-Variety-Whitefish\/dp\/B09HJNB9C7?tag=kittenfoodrcna151329-20\" rel=\"sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" data-commerce-encoding=\"true\" data-seller-id=\"ncrg916911\" data-seller-affiliate-encoded-url=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Wellness-Complete-Food-Variety-Whitefish\/dp\/B09HJNB9C7?tag=kittenfoodrcna151329-20\">multipack<\/a> of flavors or individually.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-kitten-food-rcna151329#anchor-66cd25\" id=\"anchor-66cd25\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"body-heading\">Best in gravy<\/h3>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<div id=\"anchor-89ee84\">\n<div id=\"rcpd22949\" class=\"styles_product__lnrKX\" data-testid=\"article-product-unit\">\n<div class=\"listicleProduct dn-print  product__grid-container--small\" data-activity-map=\"listicle-product-article-body-royal-canin-feline-health-nutrition-thin-slices-in-gravy-wet-kitten-food\" data-testid=\"product-container\">\n<div class=\"product__grid-row\">\n<div class=\"product__border\">\n<div class=\"df flex-column items-stretch product__card-container flex-row-m\">\n<div class=\"product__pictureLink product__picture-link db-m dn\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Royal-Canin-Feline-Nutrition-18-count\/dp\/B013DQUQLK?tag=kittenfoodrcna151329-20\" data-product-id=\"rcpd22949\" data-aps-asc-tag=\"kittenfoodrcna151329-20\" data-aps-asin=\"B013DQUQLK\" rel=\"sponsored noopener noreferrer\" target=\"_blank\" data-testid=\"product-picture-link\" class=\"w-100\"><picture class=\"\" data-testid=\"picture\" data-flavor=\"fit\" data-original-height=\"500\" data-original-width=\"500\"><source media=\"(min-width: 1240px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-b28257.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-b28257.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 1000px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-b28257.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-260w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-b28257.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 758px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-360w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-b28257.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-360w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-b28257.jpg 1x\"\/><source media=\"(min-width: 320px)\" srcset=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_avif,q_auto:eco,dpr_2\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-b28257.jpg 2x, https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-b28257.jpg 1x\"\/><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" src=\"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_fit-320w,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/AMAZON-b28257.jpg\" alt=\"Royal Canin Feline Health Nutrition Thin Slices in Gravy Wet Kitten Food\" height=\"500\" width=\"500\"\/><\/picture><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"styles_accordion__Z2nEy styles_accordion__Z_3zC undefined styles_closed__PAn2s\" data-testid=\"accordion\" data-title=\"What to know\">\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" aria-labelledby=\"accordion-button\" class=\"styles_accordion__content__09JIS styles_accordion__content__NO3i2 styles_closed__PAn2s\" data-testid=\"accordion__content\" role=\"region\" tabindex=\"-1\">\n<p><strong>Size:<\/strong> <span><em>6, 12 or 18 or 24 3 oz. or 5.1 oz. cans<\/em> <\/span>\u00a0| <strong>First ingredient:<\/strong> <span><em>chicken <\/em><\/span>\u00a0| <strong>Other flavors:<\/strong> <span><em>none<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"styles_prosConsContainer__bhblj\" data-testid=\"listicle-product__pros-cons-container\" data-activity-map=\"product-article-body-royal-canin-feline-health-nutrition-thin-slices-in-gravy-wet-kitten-food\">\n<div class=\"styles_prosConsChild__qnk7K\">\n<p>What we like<\/p>\n<ul class=\"styles_prosConsItems__rVNhO\">\n<li>Two textures available<\/li>\n<li>Antioxidants<\/li>\n<li>Fish oil<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"anchor-df52b3\" class=\"body-graf\">Royal Canin\u2019s wet food for kittens is made from thin slices of meat in a gravy sauce, giving it a soft texture that\u2019s easy for baby teeth to chew. The food contains antioxidants like vitamins E and C and fish oil, a source of omega-3 fatty acids. You can also purchase the food as a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B013DQUQLK?tag=kittenfoodrcna151329-20\" rel=\"sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" data-commerce-encoding=\"true\" data-seller-id=\"ncrg916911\" data-seller-affiliate-encoded-url=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B013DQUQLK?tag=kittenfoodrcna151329-20\">pate loaf in sauce<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-kitten-food-rcna151329#anchor-8cf2db\" id=\"anchor-8cf2db\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"body-heading\">How I picked the best kitten food<\/h2>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-a7d4b2\" class=\"body-graf\">While shopping for kitten food, veterinarians recommend keeping  the following factors in mind.<\/p>\n<ul id=\"anchor-39b46c\" class=\"break-above body-ul body-list-el\">\n<li><strong>AAFCO nutrition standards<\/strong>: Ensure you buy kitten food that meets <a href=\"https:\/\/www.aafco.org\" target=\"_blank\">AAFCO nutrition standards<\/a>. You can determine this by looking at the nutritional adequacy statement printed on the label. It should note that the food is either \u201ccomplete and balanced for growth\u201d or \u201ccomplete and balanced for all life stages.\u201d This ensures that the food you buy is formulated to address kittens\u2019 nutritional needs and has been tested for efficacy and safety.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Ingredients<\/strong>: Ingredients on a food label are listed by weight from highest to lowest, which means the first three are the most important to consider, according to the AAFCO. The first ingredient should be meat (including fish) that contains some source of DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid, like fish oil, says Dr. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.vet.cornell.edu\/research\/faculty\/john-loftus-phd-dvm-dacvim-saim-and-nutrition\" target=\"_blank\">John Loftus<\/a><strong>, <\/strong>an assistant professor of small animal internal medicine and nutrition at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.vet.cornell.edu\/\" target=\"_blank\">Cornell University College of Veterinary Science<\/a>. Kitten food should also have appropriate levels of nutrients like calcium, phosphorus, vitamin E, taurine (an amino acid) and fiber, says Dr. Hannah Hart, a veterinarian at <a href=\"https:\/\/ncls1.com\/irk?o=nthd73&amp;s=515050&amp;subid=nbcnews.com&amp;bkd=chewy.com&amp;di=kittenfoodrcna151329&amp;d=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.chewy.com%2F\" rel=\"sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" data-commerce-encoding=\"true\" data-seller-id=\"ncrg1113251\" data-seller-affiliate-encoded-url=\"https:\/\/go.redirectingat.com\/?xs=1&amp;id=96128X1608993&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.chewy.com%2F&amp;sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nbcnews.com%2Fselect%2Fshopping%2Fkittenfoodrcna151329\">Chewy<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Food type<\/strong>: You\u2019ll see wet and dry food while shopping, and cats of all ages should eat both daily if possible, says Dr. Abel Gonzalez, a veterinarian and the clinical director at a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.dutch.com\" target=\"_blank\">Dutch<\/a> pet telehealth company. While wet food is high in water content and helps with hydration, dry food is crunchy and supports kittens\u2019 dental health.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Availability<\/strong>: Kittens can eat up to four times daily, so be sure to have a consistent supply of food at the ready. Can you get it at a store in a pinch, or is it only available online? And if it\u2019s only available online, how long does delivery from your preferred retailer typically take? Kittens can get an upset stomach if you suddenly change their food, so make sure you always have access to whatever you feed them. Some retailers offer cat food subscription services if you want to set up scheduled deliveries regularly.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Price<\/strong>: The price and quality of kitten food are not always correlated, according to our experts. It\u2019s better to focus on finding one within your budget that your kitten enjoys eating, is made of healthy ingredients and meets AAFCO nutrition standards.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-kitten-food-rcna151329#anchor-33350a\" id=\"anchor-33350a\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"body-heading\">How to shop for the best kitten food<\/h2>\n<p><\/a><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-kitten-food-rcna151329#anchor-2522f8\" id=\"anchor-2522f8\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"body-heading\">What is the AAFCO?<\/h3>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-f412e9\" class=\"body-graf\">The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.aafco.org\/\" target=\"_blank\">Association of American Feed Control Officials<\/a> (AAFCO) is a non-profit organization that establishes nutrition standards for pet food and labeling standards for different life stages. Pet food companies formulate and test their products against these standards to ensure they\u2019re \u201ccomplete and balanced\u201d for your fur friend\u2014 this means the food contains necessary nutrients in the correct ratios, according to the AAFCO. The nutrient quantities and ratios necessary for each life stage vary, so the AAFCO\u2019s nutrition standards differ accordingly. For example, growing pets, meaning puppies and kittens, need more calorie-rich food that may cause less active adult animals to become overweight.<\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-7d6952\" class=\"body-graf\">That said, make sure the kitten food you buy meets AAFCO nutrition standards. You can determine this by checking the nutritional adequacy statement, usually printed in small text on the back or sides of the package. The label should note that the food is \u201ccomplete and balanced for growth,\u201d meaning designed for kittens only, or \u201ccomplete and balanced for all life stages,\u201d meaning designed for cats of all ages.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-kitten-food-rcna151329#anchor-bb91b1\" id=\"anchor-bb91b1\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"body-heading\">What are the best ingredients for kitten food?<\/h3>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-52c6a0\" class=\"body-graf\">Experts tell us that as long as you buy kitten food that meets AAFCO standards, all the ingredients are safe and each serving offers a complete, balanced meal. But if you want to know more about exactly what the food is made from, read the nutrition label with the following in mind.\u00a0<\/p>\n<ul id=\"anchor-bedd6b\" class=\"break-above body-ul body-list-el\">\n<li><strong>Protein (ideally 35% to 50%)<\/strong>: On a food label, ingredients are listed by weight from highest to lowest. When it comes to kitten food, protein should always be the first ingredient, meaning it makes up the bulk of the recipe, says Hart. Protein is important for kittens to eat at high volumes because it helps ensure proper bone and lean muscle growth.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Fats (ideally 18% to 35%)<\/strong>: The kitten food you buy should contain some fat, like DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Calcium (ideally 0.8% to 1.6%) and phosphorus: <\/strong>Hart says kitten food with sufficient calcium and phosphorus ensures proper bone development. The calcium level is usually higher than the phosphorus level.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Other important nutrients<\/strong>: Other important nutrients are vitamin A, which helps with growth, muscle and neurological development, and vitamin E, which supports the immune system, says Hart. Kitten food also needs to have taurine, an amino acid that strengthens the heart and supports healthy blood flow, among other benefits. Fiber, which supports digestive health, is crucial too.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p id=\"anchor-fcf4ea\" class=\"body-graf\">Hart says the protein and fat content in wet kitten food might be falsely low because moisture is accounted for. Your vet can help you determine if a kitten\u2019s food meets the appropriate protein and fat percentages on a dry matter basis, meaning the percentage without accounting for moisture.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-kitten-food-rcna151329#anchor-b4d390\" id=\"anchor-b4d390\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"body-heading\">Is wet or dry food better for kittens?<\/h3>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-519bae\" class=\"body-graf\">Ideally, cats, regardless of their age, should eat wet and dry food daily because each type offers different benefits. Loftus says that exposing kittens to wet and dry food early in life can also help reduce food aversions later on.<\/p>\n<ul id=\"anchor-64a655\" class=\"break-above body-ul body-list-el\">\n<li><strong>Wet food<\/strong> is high in water content and helps cats get extra moisture into their diet. This is important since cats don\u2019t naturally drink a lot of water but need it to maintain proper kidney function, says Hart.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Dry food<\/strong> typically has more carbohydrates than wet food, and it\u2019s beneficial for cats\u2019 dental health. Its abrasive texture helps scrape plaque and tartar off cats\u2019 teeth as they chew, says Hart. You can also use dry food as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-cat-treats-ncna1304127\" target=\"_blank\">cat treats<\/a> or put it inside puzzle toys, which keeps kittens mentally engaged as they work for food.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-kitten-food-rcna151329#anchor-0037f8\" id=\"anchor-0037f8\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"body-heading\">How to feed your kitten<\/h2>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-4f6ea1\" class=\"body-graf\">Once you\u2019ve picked out wet and dry food, you should determine how much and how often you should feed your kitten. Below, experts share their tips.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-kitten-food-rcna151329#anchor-ef16ad\" id=\"anchor-ef16ad\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"body-heading\">How much food do you feed your kitten?<\/h3>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-70c137\" class=\"body-graf\">How much food you need to feed your kitten changes as they grow and age, and factors like their breed, growth rate and overall health status contribute. That means there\u2019s no hard-and-fast rule for how much food to feed your kitten, so talk to your vet about what they recommend. The nutrition label on cat food packaging offers serving size guidelines based on cats\u2019 size and weight, a great reference point, says Gonzalez.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-kitten-food-rcna151329#anchor-0bda66\" id=\"anchor-0bda66\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h3 class=\"body-heading\">How often should you feed your kitten?<\/h3>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-2a7eed\" class=\"body-graf\">You have three options when it comes to feeding frequency for kittens: meal feeding, free feeding and combination feeding.<\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-a2f1b6\" class=\"body-graf\"><strong>Meal feeding<\/strong><\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-d73c08\" class=\"body-graf\">Meal feeding involves feeding your kitten a few small meals daily, giving them wet and dry food at specific times to create a consistent schedule. You can experiment with the exact time of feedings to figure out when they tend to get hungry. Kittens ages zero to six months typically need to eat two to three meals a day, but some may require meals every six to eight hours, which could end up being three to four meals a day, says Hart. Starting at six months old, you can just feed your kitten twice a day, says Loftus.<\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-c6b8eb\" class=\"body-graf\"><strong>Free feeding\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-ecef66\" class=\"body-graf\">Free feeding involves making food available to your kitten at all times. You can only free-feed dry food, however. You should not leave wet food out for more than four hours because it can grow bacteria and dry out, which may make it less appetizing to your kitten and can deter them from eating it again in the future, says Hart. If you\u2019re free-feeding dry food, discard anything that hasn\u2019t been eaten every 24 hours and replace it with fresh kibble.<\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-44b679\" class=\"body-graf\">The main downside to free-feeding kittens is that it can cause them to gain unhealthy weight early in life, potentially predisposing them to health conditions later on, says Hart. Kitten food is higher in fat and calorie count than adult cat food, so serving them limited portions prevents overeating. But as long as you monitor their body condition to ensure they\u2019re gaining weight appropriately and have an ideal muscle-to-body fat ratio as they reach maturity, free feeding can be a great option for some kittens, experts told us.<\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-e78587\" class=\"body-graf\"><strong>Combination feeding<\/strong><\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-13b2ea\" class=\"body-graf\">Some kittens are grazers, meaning they don\u2019t like to eat all their food at once and prefer to nibble a little bit at a time, says Loftus. If that\u2019s the case, combination feeding might be their best option. You can free-feed dry food, leaving a measured portion out all day so your kitten can eat whenever they want, and meal-feed wet food, giving your kitten a small portion twice a day at specific times. I\u2019ve always fed my cats this way, and it\u2019s worked very well for both of them. But every cat is different, so pay attention to their eating habits and feed them accordingly.<\/p>\n<div class=\"styles_faqEmbed___pwwo\" data-testid=\"article-faq-embed\" id=\"faq-embed-jumplink-65\">\n<div>\n<h2 class=\"styles_faqHeadline__pt29p\"><span class=\"text\">Frequently asked questions<\/span><\/h2>\n<div data-testid=\"faq-embed__cards\">\n<div class=\"styles_faqCard___5EGp\" data-testid=\"faq-card__card\">\n<div class=\"styles_faqCardContent__Fcopg\"><button class=\"styles_faqCardQuestion__RTQxf\" type=\"button\" data-testid=\"faq-card__question\"><\/p>\n<p>What\u2019s the difference between cat food and kitten food?<\/p>\n<p><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"styles_faqCardAnswer__o3VoT\" data-testid=\"faq-card__answer\">\n<div>\n<p>The main difference between cat food and kitten food is the proportion of nutrients each is made with. Kitten food has higher levels of protein, fat, calcium, and phosphorus compared to adult cat food to support young cats\u2019 growth and development, says Loftus. Adult cat food also lacks DHA and other fatty acids that are essential to kittens\u2019 brain and eye development. Because of this, experts told us kittens should not routinely eat adult cat food.  <\/p>\n<p>Some cat food is formulated to meet the nutritional needs of kittens and adult cats \u2014 it\u2019s labeled cat food for \u201call life stages.\u201d However, one serving of cat food for all life stages tends to be less calorically dense than one serving of kitten food, which may mean you\u2019ll need to feed your kitten more often. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"styles_faqCard___5EGp\" data-testid=\"faq-card__card\">\n<div class=\"styles_faqCardContent__Fcopg\"><button class=\"styles_faqCardQuestion__RTQxf\" type=\"button\" data-testid=\"faq-card__question\"><\/p>\n<p>When should you transition a kitten to adult cat food?<\/p>\n<p><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"styles_faqCardAnswer__o3VoT\" data-testid=\"faq-card__answer\">\n<div>\n<p>You can usually transition your kitten to adult food when they\u2019re about one year old or when they\u2019ve reached maturity and stopped growing, says Loftus. Some cats reach maturity later than one year old, like Maine Coon cats, which is a large breed. Talk to your vet about what they recommend for your kitten before transitioning.  <\/p>\n<p>Loftus recommends changing your cat\u2019s food over a five- to seven-day period or even slower if they have a particularly sensitive stomach. He recommends transitioning a cat\u2019s diet from kitten to adult food in quarters. On day one, feed them 1\/4 of the new food and 3\/4 of their old food, gradually increasing to 100% of the new food over time.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"styles_faqCard___5EGp\" data-testid=\"faq-card__card\">\n<div class=\"styles_faqCardContent__Fcopg\"><button class=\"styles_faqCardQuestion__RTQxf\" type=\"button\" data-testid=\"faq-card__question\"><\/p>\n<p>What should you do if your kitten is a picky eater?<\/p>\n<p><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"styles_faqCardAnswer__o3VoT\" data-testid=\"faq-card__answer\">\n<div>\n<p>Just like kids, kittens can be picky about their food. While this can certainly be due to general pickiness, it could also be an indicator of illness, says Loftus. So before you try anything else, be sure to have your kitten examined by their vet to rule out parasites or infections that could affect their appetite.  If the vet gives your kitten a clean bill of health, you can try a few different strategies to make eating more pleasurable for them. <\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>Ask whoever was taking care of your kitten before you what type of food they were eating when they were weaned from their mother. If a kitten was exposed to a specific flavor, texture or shape of food early in life, they may have formed a preference for it, says Hart. If you can get this information, you can try to find that exact food or something close to it. <\/li>\n<li>Offer them different options until you find something they like, and then stick to it, says Gonzalez. Wet and dry kitten food comes in various flavors and textures, so consider experimenting with a few. He says you can also try warming up wet food, which some cats find more appealing. <\/li>\n<li>Hart suggests mixing kittens\u2019 food with toppers to entice them, such as low-sodium unseasoned chicken broth, plain scrambled eggs or egg whites. <\/li>\n<li>Adjust your kitten\u2019s feeding schedule. Some kittens may prefer to eat multiple small meals throughout the day instead of larger meals in the morning and evening. As long as they eat an appropriate amount of food daily, you can break up servings however they prefer. <\/li>\n<li>Change where you\u2019re feeding your kitten in your home. When one of my kittens would not eat, I realized it might be because of a noisy <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-ac-units-air-conditioners-ncna1227736\" target=\"_blank\">air conditioner<\/a> near her food bowl. I moved her bowl further away and she ate her food immediately. <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"styles_faqCard___5EGp\" data-testid=\"faq-card__card\">\n<div class=\"styles_faqCardContent__Fcopg\"><button class=\"styles_faqCardQuestion__RTQxf\" type=\"button\" data-testid=\"faq-card__question\"><\/p>\n<p>Are grain-free diets safe for kittens?<\/p>\n<p><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"styles_faqCardAnswer__o3VoT\" data-testid=\"faq-card__answer\">\n<div>\n<p>Yes, grain-free diets can be safe for kittens or cats of any age, so long as they\u2019re still eating sufficient levels of carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals, experts told us. \u201cGrain-free\u201d is a claim some brands add to their foods\u2019 labels when made without wheat, barley, rye, corn, millet, rice or oats. Some people think a grain-free diet is healthier for cats because wild cats don\u2019t eat these types of grains, so they believe domestic cats don\u2019t need them either, says Hart. However, grains are an important source of carbohydrates for energy, as well as vitamins and minerals like iron, calcium and vitamin B, which are essential for proper organ function.  <\/p>\n<p>Experts told us that if you work with your vet to find a complete and balanced grain-free food, it\u2019s safe for your kitten to eat. \u201cThe FDA is still investigating the link between feeding grain-free diets and heart disease in dogs, but no such link appears to exist in cats,\u201d says Hart. \u201cThus, there does not appear to be a risk in feeding grain-free foods to kittens at this time.\u201d <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"styles_faqCard___5EGp\" data-testid=\"faq-card__card\">\n<div class=\"styles_faqCardContent__Fcopg\"><button class=\"styles_faqCardQuestion__RTQxf\" type=\"button\" data-testid=\"faq-card__question\"><\/p>\n<p>Are raw food diets safe for kittens?<\/p>\n<p><\/button><\/p>\n<div class=\"styles_faqCardAnswer__o3VoT\" data-testid=\"faq-card__answer\">\n<div>\n<p>No, raw food diets are not safe for kittens or cats of any age. All the experts we spoke to recommend against feeding your cat a raw food diet, as does the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.avma.org\/resources-tools\/avma-policies\/raw-or-undercooked-animal-source-protein-cat-and-dog-diets\" target=\"_blank\">American Veterinary Medical Association<\/a>. A raw food diet is centered around ingredients that are not cooked or otherwise heat treated, which some people believe is healthier to feed cats because ingredients are closer to their natural forms, closely mimicking the diet of wild cats, says Hart. But because raw food diets contain uncooked eggs and meat, there\u2019s a high risk of foodborne illness for the cat eating it and the person serving it, says Loftus. <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-kitten-food-rcna151329#anchor-bfb7c5\" id=\"anchor-bfb7c5\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"body-heading\">Meet our veterinary experts<\/h2>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-408222\" class=\"body-graf\">At NBC Selected, we work with experts who have specialized knowledge and authority based on relevant training and\/or experience. We also ensure that all expert advice and recommendations are made independently and with no undisclosed financial conflicts of interest.<\/p>\n<ul id=\"anchor-2af8dd\" class=\"break-above body-ul body-list-el\">\n<li><strong>Dr. Hannah Hart<\/strong> is a veterinarian at <a href=\"https:\/\/ncls1.com\/irk?o=nthd73&amp;s=515050&amp;subid=nbcnews.com&amp;bkd=chewy.com&amp;di=kittenfoodrcna151329&amp;d=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.chewy.com%2F\" rel=\"sponsored\" target=\"_blank\" data-commerce-encoding=\"true\" data-seller-id=\"ncrg1113251\" data-seller-affiliate-encoded-url=\"https:\/\/go.redirectingat.com\/?xs=1&amp;id=96128X1608993&amp;url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.chewy.com%2F&amp;sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nbcnews.com%2Fselect%2Fshopping%2Fkittenfoodrcna151329\">Chewy<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Dr. <\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.vet.cornell.edu\/research\/faculty\/john-loftus-phd-dvm-dacvim-saim-and-nutrition\" target=\"_blank\"><strong>John Loftus<\/strong><\/a><strong>, <\/strong>a board-certified small animal internal medicine specialist and veterinary nutritionist, is an assistant professor of small animal internal medicine and nutrition at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.vet.cornell.edu\/\" target=\"_blank\">Cornell University College of Veterinary Science<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Dr. Abel Gonzalez<\/strong> is a veterinarian and the clinical director at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.dutch.com\" target=\"_blank\">Dutch<\/a>, a pet telehealth company.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-kitten-food-rcna151329#anchor-7b3b1d\" id=\"anchor-7b3b1d\" class=\"scrollLink\"><\/p>\n<h2 class=\"body-heading\">Why trust NBC Selected?<\/h2>\n<p><\/a><\/p>\n<p id=\"anchor-8f5f8d\" class=\"body-graf\">I am a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/author\/zoe-malin-ncpn1232165\" target=\"_blank\">reporter at NBC Selected<\/a> who writes about pets, including articles on <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-cat-carriers-backpacks-rcna125718\" target=\"_blank\">cat carriers<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/best-vacuums-pet-hair-ncna1304554\" target=\"_blank\">vacuums for pet hair<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/how-get-rid-fleas-ncna1262654\" target=\"_blank\">how to get rid of fleas<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/shopping\/casper-dog-bed-review-rcna143629\" target=\"_blank\">dog beds<\/a>. For this article, I interviewed three veterinarians about how to shop for the best kitten food and rounded up options that meet experts\u2019 guidance. I have two cats, and raised a total of six cats throughout my lifetime. I have volunteered at animal shelters for over a decade as well.<\/p>\n<section id=\"anchor-b2636d\" class=\"embed-widget embedWidget embed-widget--medium\" data-testid=\"embed-widget\"\/>\n<p id=\"anchor-b2b76d\" class=\"endmark body-graf\"><em><strong>Catch up on NBC Selected\u2019s in-depth coverage of <\/strong><\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/tech-tools\" target=\"_blank\"><em><strong>tech and tools<\/strong><\/em><\/a><em><strong>, <\/strong><\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nbcnews.com\/select\/wellness\" target=\"_blank\"><em><strong>wellness<\/strong><\/em><\/a><em><strong> and more, and follow us on <\/strong><\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/NBCSelect\" target=\"_blank\"><em><strong>Facebook<\/strong><\/em><\/a><em><strong>, <\/strong><\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/nbcselect\/\" target=\"_blank\"><em><strong>Instagram<\/strong><\/em><\/a><em><strong>, <\/strong><\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/nbcselect\" target=\"_blank\"><em><strong>Twitter<\/strong><\/em><\/a><em><strong> and <\/strong><\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.tiktok.com\/@nbcselect\" target=\"_blank\"><em><strong>TikTok<\/strong><\/em><\/a><em><strong> to stay up to date.<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p><script async src=\"\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script><script async src=\"\/\/www.instagram.com\/embed.js\"><\/script><script async src=\"\/\/www.tiktok.com\/embed.js\"><\/script><br \/>\n<br \/><script async=\"async\" data-cfasync=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/pl30214220.effectivecpmnetwork.com\/9ab3d4df8a7e1a6171e16ddbf732cc19\/invoke.js\"><\/script>\r\n<div id=\"container-9ab3d4df8a7e1a6171e16ddbf732cc19\"><\/div>\r\n<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Ensuring your kitten grows into a healthy adult cat starts with their diet. The best kitten food supports their development throughout their first year of life and makes them look forward to mealtime. But with dozens of options on the market, how do pet parents decide what dry and wet food to buy? Below, veterinarians&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":25237,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"fifu_image_url":"https:\/\/media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com\/image\/upload\/t_nbcnews-fp-1200-630,f_auto,q_auto:best\/rockcms\/2024-05\/230506-Kitten-food-vl-social-158556.jpg","fifu_image_alt":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[6],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-25236","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-pics-news"],"brizy_media":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/25236","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=25236"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/25236\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/25237"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=25236"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=25236"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/usnews-14267fa.ingress-comporellon.ewp.live\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=25236"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}