Bringing a new kitten into your home is an exciting time, filled with playful antics and tiny meows. Ensuring your new companion gets the best start in life begins with their nutrition. The best kitten food is specifically formulated to provide the high levels of protein, calories, and essential nutrients that growing felines need. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the options and choose the ideal food to support your kitten’s development.
At a Glance: Top 11 Best Kitten Foods to Buy
Our research involved examining 254 brands and 11 features to identify the top kitten food choices. We spent 3048 hours on this research to bring you the most informed recommendations.
Top Picks Explained
When selecting the best kitten food, our top considerations are nutritional completeness, ingredient quality, and suitability for a kitten’s specific needs. We’ve analyzed various brands, focusing on protein content, calorie density, and the presence of essential fatty acids like DHA for brain and eye development.
The Best Kitten Foods Reviewed: Our Top 11 Recommendations
Choosing the right food is paramount for your kitten’s health and development. We’ve curated a list of top-tier kitten foods, categorized by type and benefits, to help you make an informed decision.
#1 Overall Best: Smalls Ground Other Bird Fresh Cat Food
Smalls Ground Other Bird Fresh Cat Food is a standout choice for kittens due to its high-quality animal protein, rich moisture content, and beneficial omega-3 fatty acids. This fresh food is formulated for all life stages, ensuring it meets the demanding nutritional requirements of growing kittens.
Ingredients
Turkey, Turkey Liver, Green Beans, Water Sufficient for Processing, Dried Yeast, Kale, Tricalcium Phosphate, Choline Chloride, Salt, Magnesium Proteinate, Dandelion Greens, Taurine, Dried Kelp, Zinc Proteinate, Iron Proteinate, Cod Liver Oil, Niacin Supplement, Vitamin E Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Thiamine Mononitrate, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Riboflavin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Sodium Selenite, Biotin.
Guaranteed Analysis
Crude Protein: 14.5% | Crude Fat: 10% | Crude Fiber: 1.5% | Moisture: 72%
What We Liked:
- Single source of high-quality animal protein
- Rich in moisture to support your kitten’s hydration
- Good source of omega-3 fatty acids
- Highly digestible and low in carbohydrates
#2 Best Dry: Open Farm Kitten Grain-Free Dry Cat Food
Open Farm Kitten Grain-Free Dry Cat Food is an excellent option for owners who prefer dry food. It features humanely raised chicken and turkey as the primary protein sources, supplemented with menhaden fish meal and salmon oil for essential fatty acids like DHA. This formula is designed to meet the high-protein needs of growing kittens.
Ingredients
Chicken, Turkey, Ocean Whitefish Meal, Herring Meal, Chickpeas, Green Lentils, Red Lentils, Menhaden Fish Meal, Coconut Oil, Sunflower Oil, Pumpkin, Natural Flavor, Cranberries, Apples, Dandelion Greens, Dried Chicory Root, Salmon Oil (Source of DHA), Calcium Carbonate, Choline Chloride, Vitamins (Niacin Supplement, Vitamin E Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid, Biotin), Salt, Dicalcium Phosphate, Taurine, Minerals (Calcium Carbonate, Zinc Proteinate, Iron Proteinate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Calcium Iodate), DL-Methionine, Mixed Tocopherols, Turmeric, Dried Yucca Schidigera Extract, Rosemary Extract.
Guaranteed Analysis
Crude Protein: 40.5% | Crude Fat: 19.5% | Crude Fiber: 1.35% | Moisture: 8%
What We Liked:
- First four ingredients are animal-based proteins
- Contains salmon oil as an animal source of DHA
- Made with humanely raised, ethically sourced ingredients
- Free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives
#3 Best with Gravy: Weruva Kitten Minced Chicken & Tuna Formula in Gravy Wet Cat Food
For kittens who love gravy, Weruva Kitten Minced Chicken & Tuna Formula is a highly palatable choice. This wet food is specifically formulated for kittens, offering protein-rich chicken, tuna, and egg in a minced texture with a flavorful gravy. Its high protein and moisture content support hydration and development.
Ingredients
Chicken Broth, Chicken, Tuna, Natural Flavor, Potato Starch, Sunflower Oil, Calcium Lactate, Guar Gum, Dried Egg, Tricalcium Phosphate, Choline Chloride, Taurine, Zinc Sulfate, Vitamin E Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Niacin Supplement (Vitamin B3), Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin A Supplement, Manganese Sulfate, Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B2), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Ferrous Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Folic Acid, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Potassium Iodide, Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex (Source Of Vitamin K).
Guaranteed Analysis
Crude Protein: 13.09% | Crude Fat: 5.5% | Crude Fiber: 0.13% | Moisture: 78.9%
What We Liked:
- Contains nearly 68% protein (measured as dry matter)
- Good source of hydrating moisture for kittens
- Minced texture and flavorful gravy appeal to many kittens
#4 Vet Recommended Dry: Hill’s Science Diet Kitten Healthy Development Chicken Recipe Dry Cat Food
Hill’s Science Diet Kitten Healthy Development Chicken Recipe Dry Cat Food is a vet-recommended option featuring a solid reputation among pet owners. This food uses chicken muscle meat as its primary protein source and relies on whole grains for carbohydrates. Fish oil provides essential DHA for development.
Ingredients
Chicken, Brown Rice, Wheat Gluten, Chicken Fat, Cracked Pearled Barley, Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Oats, Egg Product, Chicken Liver Flavor, Ground Pecan Shells, Lactic Acid, Potassium Chloride, Dicalcium Phosphate, Flaxseed, Dried Beet Pulp, L-Lysine, Calcium Sulfate, Dried Citrus Pulp, Fish Oil, Choline Chloride, Iodized Salt, DL-Methionine, Pressed Cranberries, Cysteine, Vitamins (Vitamin E Supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (source of Vitamin C), Thiamine Mononitrate, Niacin Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin A Supplement, Biotin, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Folic Acid, Vitamin D3 Supplement), Taurine, Minerals (Ferrous Sulfate, Zinc Oxide, Copper Sulfate, Manganous Oxide, Calcium Iodate, Sodium Selenite), Magnesium Oxide, Mixed Tocopherols for freshness, Natural Flavors, Beta-Carotene.
Guaranteed Analysis
Crude Protein: 33% | Crude Fat: 19% | Crude Fiber: 4% | Moisture: 8%
What We Liked:
- Chicken muscle meat is the main source of protein
- Fish oil provides animal-sourced EPA and DHA
- Relies on nutrient-rich whole grains, not legumes
#5 Best Moist: Tiki Cat Baby Chicken, Salmon, & Chicken Liver Recipe Wet Cat Food
Tiki Cat Baby Chicken, Salmon, & Chicken Liver Recipe Wet Cat Food is a species-appropriate choice packed with animal-sourced protein. Chicken, salmon, and chicken liver form the basis of this food, which also contains DHA for brain and eye development. Its easy-to-chew texture of mousse and shreds is ideal for kittens.
Ingredients
Chicken, Chicken Broth, Salmon, Chicken Liver, Sunflower Seed Oil, Dried Egg, Tricalcium Phosphate, Inulin, Potassium Chloride, Xanthan Gum, Taurine, Salmon Oil, Choline Chloride, Salt, Magnesium Sulfate, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B1), Vitamin E Supplement, Ferrous Sulfate, Niacin (Vitamin B3), Zinc Oxide, Vitamin A Supplement, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Sodium Selenite, Manganous Oxide, Calcium Pantothenate, Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B2), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B6), Folic Acid, Potassium Iodide, Vitamin D3 Supplement.
Guaranteed Analysis
Crude Protein: 15% | Crude Fat: 5% | Crude Fiber: 1% | Moisture: 78%
What We Liked:
- Made primarily with animal ingredients
- Rich in protein with minimal carbohydrates
- Good source of hydrating moisture
- Texture is easy for kittens to chew
#6 Best for Picky Eaters: Purina ONE Healthy Kitten Chicken & Salmon Recipe Paté Wet Kitten Food
Purina ONE Healthy Kitten Chicken & Salmon Recipe Paté Wet Kitten Food is a moisture-rich, multi-protein formula that can be a good choice for kittens who are difficult to please. Made entirely with animal-sourced ingredients, it provides high protein content and is relatively low in carbohydrates.
Ingredients
Chicken, Liver, Chicken Broth, Pork Lungs, Salmon, Natural Flavors, Essential Nutrients And Other Ingredients: Minerals (Potassium Chloride, Salt, Mono And Dicalcium Phosphate, Magnesium Sulfate, Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Potassium Iodide), Guar Gum, Vitamins (Vitamin E, Choline, Vitamin B-1, Vitamin B-3, Vitamin B-5, Vitamin A, Vitamin K, Vitamin B-6, Vitamin B-2, Vitamin B-12, Vitamin B-7, Folic Acid, Vitamin D-3), Taurine.
Guaranteed Analysis
Crude Protein: 11% | Crude Fat: 6.5% | Crude Fiber: 1.5% | Moisture: 76.5%
What We Liked:
- Relies primarily on animal-sourced ingredients
- Rich in moisture to support your kitten’s hydration
- Contains nearly 47% protein (measured as dry matter)
- Multi-protein formula may appeal to picky eaters
#7 Best Pate: Wellness CORE Kitten Turkey & Chicken Liver Pâté
Wellness CORE Kitten Turkey & Chicken Liver Pâté offers a species-appropriate protein blend from turkey, chicken, and herring, along with nutrient-dense organ meats. This easily digestible formula is rich in moisture and low in carbohydrates, making it an excellent choice for kittens. The inclusion of fish oil provides essential DHA for cognitive and visual development.
Ingredients
Turkey, Chicken Liver, Turkey Broth, Chicken, Herring, Chicken Hearts, Natural Flavor, Fish Oil (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Ground Flaxseed, Dried Chicory Root, Tricalcium Phosphate, Guar Gum, Potassium Chloride, Taurine, Cranberries, Sunflower Oil, Choline Chloride, Dried Kelp, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Cassia Gum, Xanthan Gum, Salt, Magnesium Sulfate, Vitamin E Supplement, Zinc Proteinate, Iron Proteinate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Niacin Supplement, d-Calcium Pantothenate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Riboflavin Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Biotin, Potassium Iodide, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Folic Acid.
Guaranteed Analysis
Crude Protein: 12% | Crude Fat: 7.5% | Crude Fiber: 1% | Moisture: 78%
What We Liked:
- Contains over 54% protein (measured as dry matter)
- Soft pâté texture is easy for kittens to eat
- Rich in moisture to support healthy hydration
- Supplemented with fish oil as a source of DHA
#8 Best Budget: Fancy Feast Kitten Tender Turkey Feast Canned Cat Food
Fancy Feast Kitten Tender Turkey Feast Canned Cat Food is an affordable yet palatable option that emphasizes animal ingredients and minimizes carbohydrates. While it contains meat by-products and artificial colors/flavors, its primary ingredient is high-quality animal protein, making it a viable budget-friendly choice.
Ingredients
Turkey, Meat By-Products, Liver, Poultry Broth, Fish, Milk, Egg Product, Artificial And Natural Flavors, Tricalcium Phosphate, Potassium Chloride, Magnesium Proteinate, Zinc Sulfate, Ferrous Sulfate, Manganese Sulfate, Copper Sulfate, Potassium Iodide, Guar Gum, Vitamin E Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate (Vitamin B-1), Niacin (Vitamin B-3), Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B-5), Vitamin A Supplement, Menadione Sodium Bisulfite Complex (Vitamin K), Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (Vitamin B-6), Riboflavin Supplement (Vitamin B-2), Vitamin B-12 Supplement, Biotin (Vitamin B-7), Folic Acid (Vitamin B-9), Vitamin D-3 Supplement], Taurine, Salt.
Guaranteed Analysis
Crude Protein: 11% | Crude Fat: 5% | Crude Fiber: 1.5% | Moisture: 78%
What We Liked:
- Features high-quality animal protein as the main ingredient
- Hydrating canned food with a strong reputation for palatability
- One of the most affordable options for kitten food
#9 Best Human-Grade Wet: The Honest Kitchen Grain-Free Chicken Câté Wet Cat Food
The Honest Kitchen Grain-Free Chicken Câté Wet Cat Food offers a human-grade option for kitten nutrition. Prepared according to human food manufacturing standards, this food is rich in protein from animal sources, with chicken as the primary ingredient. Salmon oil provides beneficial omega-3 fatty acids for development.
Ingredients
Chicken, Chicken Broth, Chicken Liver, Pumpkin, Carrots, Blueberries, Cranberries, Natural Chicken Flavor, Calcium Carbonate, Agar Agar, Dandelion Greens, Potassium Chloride, Choline Chloride, Vitamin E Supplement, Vitamin A Supplement, Niacin Supplement, Calcium Pantothenate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Riboflavin, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Folic Acid, Biotin, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Vitamin D3 Supplement, Magnesium Proteinate, Taurine, Copper Proteinate, Iron Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Potassium Iodide, Zinc Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Kelp, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Salmon Oil.
Guaranteed Analysis
Crude Protein: 10% | Crude Fat: 6.5% | Crude Fiber: 1% | Moisture: 78%
What We Liked:
- Chicken as a single source of high-quality animal protein
- Free of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives
- Rich in moisture to support your kitten’s hydration
#10 Best Budget Dry: Nulo Freestyle Turkey & Duck Recipe Cat & Kitten Grain-Free Dry Cat Food
Nulo Freestyle Turkey & Duck Recipe Cat & Kitten Grain-Free Dry Cat Food is a budget-friendly dry food featuring turkey, fish, and duck as its main ingredients. It offers a high protein content and is formulated for all life stages, allowing your kitten to continue eating it into adulthood. The small kibble size is easy for kittens to chew.
Ingredients
Deboned Turkey, Turkey Meal, Menhaden Fish Meal, Deboned Cod, Yellow Peas, Red Lentils, Chicken Fat (Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols & Citric Acid), Deboned Duck, Sweet Potatoes, Chickpeas, Miscanthus Grass, Natural Flavor, Ground Flaxseed, Dried Chicory Root, Dried Kelp, Dried Cranberries, Calcium Carbonate, Dl Methionine, Taurine, Zinc Proteinate, Choline Chloride, Vitamin E Supplement, L-Ascorbyl-2-Polyphosphate (Source of Vitamin C), Iron Proteinate, Niacin Supplement, Copper Proteinate, Thiamine Mononitrate, Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin A Supplement, Manganese Proteinate, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Sodium Selenite, Riboflavin Supplement, Dried Bacillus Coagulans Fermentation Product, Yucca Schidigera Extract, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Calcium Iodate, Folic Acid, Rosemary Extract.
Guaranteed Analysis
Crude Protein: 40% | Crude Fat: 18% | Crude Fiber: 4% | Moisture: 10%
What We Liked:
- Rich in animal-sourced protein
- Good source of omega-3 fatty acids
- Disc-shaped kibbles are easy for kittens to eat
#11 Best for Sensitive Stomachs: Wellness Complete Health Kitten Chicken Entree Paté Canned Cat Food
Wellness Complete Health Kitten Chicken Entree Paté Canned Cat Food is a grain-free, smooth loaf that provides a nutritious and species-appropriate option. With chicken and chicken liver as primary ingredients, it offers high protein and essential nutrients. The carbohydrate sources are primarily nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables, making it digestible for many kittens.
Ingredients
Chicken, Chicken Liver, Chicken Broth, Chicken Hearts, Natural Flavor, Carrots, Fish Oil (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols), Ground Flaxseed, Cranberries, Dried Chicory Root, Potassium Chloride, Taurine, Sunflower Oil, Salt, Guar Gum, Choline Chloride, Cassia Gum, Xanthan Gum, Magnesium Sulfate, Vitamin E Supplement, Zinc Proteinate, Iron Proteinate, Tricalcium Phosphate, Beta Carotene, Niacin Supplement, Thiamine Mononitrate, Copper Proteinate, Manganese Proteinate, Sodium Selenite, Vitamin A Supplement, D-Calcium Pantothenate, Vitamin B12 Supplement, Riboflavin Supplement, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, Biotin, Folic Acid, Potassium Iodide, Vitamin D3 Supplement.
Guaranteed Analysis
Crude Protein: 11% | Crude Fat: 6% | Crude Fiber: 1% | Moisture: 78%
What We Liked:
- Made primarily with animal-sourced proteins and fat
- Contains under 20% dry matter carbohydrate
- Rich source of hydrating moisture for kittens
- Fish oil provides DHA for brain and eye development
Best Kitten Food: Comparison Table
| Product Name | Smalls Ground Other Bird Fresh Cat Food | Open Farm Kitten Grain-Free Dry Cat Food | Weruva Kitten Minced Chicken & Tuna Formula in Gravy Wet Cat Food | Hill’s Science Diet Kitten Healthy Development Chicken Recipe Dry Cat Food | Tiki Cat Baby Chicken, Salmon, & Chicken Liver Recipe Wet Cat Food | Purina ONE Healthy Kitten Chicken & Salmon Recipe Paté Wet Kitten Food | Wellness CORE Kitten Turkey & Chicken Liver Pâté | Nulo Freestyle Turkey & Duck Cat & Kitten Grain-Free Dry Cat Food | Fancy Feast Kitten Tender Turkey Feast Canned Cat Food | The Honest Kitchen Grain-Free Chicken Câté Wet Cat Food | Wellness Complete Health Kitten Chicken Entree Paté Canned Cat Food |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Protein | Turkey | Chicken | Chicken | Chicken | Chicken | Chicken | Turkey | Turkey | Chicken | Turkey | Chicken |
| Guaranteed Protein | 14.50% | 40.50% | 11.50% | 33% | 15% | 11% | 12% | 11% | 10% | 40% | 11% |
| Calories Per Ounce | 40 | 110 | 29 | 116 | 35 | 35 | 38 | 31 | 31 | 106 | 39 |
| Cost Per Day | $4 per day | $0.80 per day | $4.15 per day | $0.55 per day | $5.80 per day | $2.50 per day | $3.70 per day | $1.95 per day | $3.92 per day | $0.56 per day | $2.82 per day |
*Cost per day is calculated using the food’s average cost per ounce and the daily caloric requirement for a healthy adult cat (about 200 calories).
What To Look For When Shopping for Kitten Food
Kittens have distinct nutritional needs that differ from adult cats. They require higher levels of protein and fat to support rapid growth and development. Choosing a nutritionally balanced diet is crucial for their well-being.
Rich in Protein
Kittens need a minimum of 7.5 grams of protein per 100 calories, which translates to at least 28% crude protein in dry kitten food and 7% in wet kitten food. Protein is essential for muscle, bone, and organ development.
Calorie-Dense
A calorie-dense diet provides the necessary energy for your kitten’s rapid growth without requiring them to eat excessively large meals. Look for foods with a higher caloric density to meet their energy demands.
Primarily Animal-Based
As obligate carnivores, cats and kittens thrive on diets rich in animal-based protein and fat. These sources provide essential amino acids that plant-based alternatives lack. Wet food, with its high moisture content, also supports hydration and urinary tract health.
Free From Harmful Additives
Avoid artificial flavors, colors, and synthetic preservatives, as these offer no nutritional value and may contribute to negative health effects. Opt for foods with natural ingredients.
Easy for Kittens to Eat
Young kittens with developing teeth often find soft, wet food easier to consume. As they mature, they may transition to dry food, but always ensure their food is palatable and manageable for their current dental stage.
Frequently Asked Questions
When Should You Start Feeding Kitten Food?
Kittens begin transitioning from mother’s milk to solid food around four weeks of age. By seven weeks, they should be fully weaned and consuming solid food.
How Often Should You Feed Your Kitten?
Kittens typically do best with three to four small meals per day.
Is It Okay to Feed Your Kitten A Variety of Foods or Should They Stick to One Food Only?
Introducing a variety of textures and flavors during kittenhood can help prevent finicky eating habits later in life. This approach can also broaden their palate and reduce the risk of developing food intolerances.
When Should You Stop Feeding Kitten Food?
Most veterinarians recommend transitioning cats to an adult diet around one year of age, or when they reach physical maturity. Consult your veterinarian for personalized advice on when to make the switch.
Can Adult Cats Eat Kitten Food?
While adult cats can consume kitten food, it’s not ideal for long-term feeding. Kitten food is often higher in certain nutrients like calcium and phosphorus, which may be excessive for adult cats. However, it can be beneficial for underweight adult cats needing to gain weight due to its higher calorie content.
Relevant Articles:
- 9 Best Kitten Foods
