Welcoming a kitten into your home is an exciting time, and providing them with the best possible nutrition is paramount for their healthy growth and development. Kitten food is specially formulated to be calorie-dense and rich in the protein, fats, and essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids that support brain and eye development. However, not all foods marketed for kittens are created equal. This guide delves into the Top Kitten Food options available, offering insights into their nutritional profiles, ingredients, and suitability for your growing feline companion.
At a Glance: Top 11 Best Kitten Foods to Buy
This comprehensive review involved extensive research, analyzing numerous brands and products to identify the top contenders for kitten nutrition.
Top Kitten Food Recommendations
#1 Overall Best: Smalls Ground Other Bird Fresh Cat Food
Smalls Ground Other Bird Fresh Cat Food is a top-tier choice for kittens, offering a fresh, meat-based formula with high-quality animal ingredients like turkey and chicken liver. This food is rich in moisture, crucial for hydration, and provides essential omega-3 fatty acids. It is formulated for all life stages, ensuring it meets your kitten’s nutritional needs as they grow. The typical cost per day is around $4, and it is made in the United States.
Key Features:
- Single source of high-quality animal protein
- Rich in moisture to support hydration
- Good source of omega-3 fatty acids
- Highly digestible and low in carbohydrates
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% Min, Crude Fat: 10% Min, Crude Fiber: 1.5% Max, Moisture: 72% Max.
#2 Best Dry: Open Farm Kitten Grain-Free Dry Cat Food
For owners who prefer dry food, Open Farm Kitten Grain-Free Dry Cat Food is an excellent option. It features humanely raised chicken and turkey as the primary ingredients, supplemented with menhaden fish meal and salmon oil for DHA. This formula meets AAFCO requirements for kitten growth and development. The typical cost per day is approximately $0.80, and it is made in the United States.
Key Features:
- 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
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% Min, Crude Fat: 19.5% Min, Crude Fiber: 1.35% Max, Moisture: 8% Max, Ash: 10.79% Max.
#3 Best with Gravy: Weruva Kitten Minced Chicken & Tuna Formula in Gravy Wet Cat Food
Weruva Kitten Minced Chicken & Tuna Formula in Gravy Wet Cat Food is a highly palatable option for kittens, especially those who enjoy gravy. This formula is specifically designed for kittens, featuring protein-rich chicken, tuna, and egg in a minced texture with a flavorful gravy. It provides nearly 68% protein on a dry matter basis and is a good source of hydration. The typical cost per day is around $4.15, and it is made in Thailand.
Key Features:
- Contains nearly 68% protein (measured as dry matter)
- Good source of hydrating moisture for kittens
- Minced texture and flavorful gravy appeal to many kittens
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% Min, Crude Fat: 5.5% Min, Crude Fiber: 0.13% Max, Moisture: 78.9% Max, Ash: 1.2% Max.
#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 that boasts a solid reputation among pet owners. It offers ample animal-sourced protein, with chicken muscle meat as the first ingredient, and relies on whole grains rather than legumes. Fish oil provides essential omega-3 fatty acids for brain development. The typical cost per day is about $0.55, and it is made in the United States.
Key Features:
- 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
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% Min, Crude Fat: 19% Min, Crude Fiber: 4% Max, Moisture: 8% Max, Ash: 10.5% Max.
#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 for kittens, packed with animal-sourced protein from chicken, salmon, and chicken liver. This wet food offers a delightful texture combination of smooth mousse topped with fine shreds, making it easy for kittens to eat. It is also enriched with DHA for brain development. The typical cost per day is about $5.80, and it is made in Thailand.
Key Features:
- Made primarily with animal ingredients
- Rich in protein with minimal carbohydrates
- Good source of hydrating moisture
- Texture is easy for kittens to chew
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% Min, Crude Fat: 5% Min, Crude Fiber: 1% Max, Moisture: 78% Max.
#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 great option for kittens with discerning palates. Made entirely with animal-sourced ingredients, it provides nearly 47% protein on a dry matter basis and is relatively low in carbohydrates. The smooth paté texture is often a hit with kittens. The typical cost per day is approximately $2.50, and it is made in the United States.
Key Features:
- 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
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% Min, Crude Fat: 6.5% Min, Crude Fiber: 1.5% Max, Moisture: 76.5% Max, Ash: 3.1% Max.
#7 Best Pate: Wellness CORE Kitten Turkey & Chicken Liver Pâté
Wellness CORE Kitten Turkey & Chicken Liver Pâté is a protein-packed option featuring species-appropriate protein from turkey, chicken, and herring, along with nutrient-dense organ meats. This formula contains over 54% protein on a dry matter basis and is easily digestible. It is also a good source of DHA from herring and fish oil, supporting brain and eye development. The typical cost per day is about $3.70, and it is made in Canada and the United States.
Key Features:
- 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
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% Min, Crude Fat: 7.5% Min, Crude Fiber: 1% Max, Moisture: 78% Max.
#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 for kittens. This formula highlights animal ingredients, minimizes carbohydrates, and has a reputation for being budget-friendly. While it contains meat by-products and artificial colors/flavors, it remains a popular choice for many owners. The typical cost per day is around $1.95, and it is made in the United States.
Key Features:
- 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
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 B12 Supplement, Biotin (Vitamin B-7), Folic Acid (Vitamin B-9), Vitamin D-3 Supplement], Taurine, Salt.
Guaranteed Analysis: Crude Protein: 11% Min, Crude Fat: 5% Min, Crude Fiber: 1.5% Max, Moisture: 78% Max, Ash: 3.5% Max.
#9 Best Human-Grade Wet: The Honest Kitchen Grain-Free Chicken Câté Wet Cat Food
For owners seeking human-grade food, The Honest Kitchen Grain-Free Chicken Câté Wet Cat Food is an exceptional choice. Prepared and processed according to human food standards, this formula features chicken as its primary ingredient and includes salmon oil for DHA. It is rich in moisture and free from artificial additives. The typical cost per day is about $3.92, and it is made in the United States.
Key Features:
- 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
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% Min, Crude Fat: 6.5% Min, Crude Fiber: 1% Max, Moisture: 78% Max.
#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 offers a protein-rich, grain-free option at an affordable price. Featuring turkey, fish, and duck as primary ingredients, this food contains over 44% dry matter protein and relies mainly on animal-sourced fat. The small, disc-shaped kibbles are easy for kittens to chew. The typical cost per day is about $0.56, and it is made in the United States.
Key Features:
- Rich in animal-sourced protein
- Good source of omega-3 fatty acids
- Disc-shaped kibbles are easy for kittens to eat
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% Min, Crude Fat: 18% Min, Crude Fiber: 4% Max, Moisture: 10% Max.
#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 formula that is both nutritious and gentle on sensitive stomachs. With protein-rich chicken and chicken liver as leading ingredients, it is a species-appropriate option. While it contains some gum thickeners, customer reviews suggest it is well-tolerated by most kittens. The typical cost per day is approximately $2.82, and it is made in Canada.
Key Features:
- 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
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% Min, Crude Fat: 6% Min, Crude Fiber: 1% Max, Moisture: 78% Max.
What To Look for When Shopping for Kitten Food
Kittens have distinct nutritional requirements that differ from adult cats. To ensure your kitten thrives, consider these key factors when selecting their food:
Rich in Protein
Protein is the cornerstone of a kitten’s diet, essential for muscle, bone, and organ development. Kittens require a higher quantity and quality of protein than adult cats. Look for a minimum of 28% crude protein in dry kitten food and 7% in wet kitten food, which translates to at least 30% on a dry matter basis to meet AAFCO’s recommendations.
Calorie-Dense
Kittens have a higher metabolic rate and require more calories per pound of body weight to fuel their rapid growth. A calorie-dense diet ensures they receive adequate energy without needing to consume excessively large meals. Check the caloric density on the food label (calories per ounce) to find a suitable option.
Primarily Animal-Based
As obligate carnivores, cats and kittens need amino acids exclusively found in animal tissue. Animal-sourced protein and fat are more species-appropriate and digestible. An ideal kitten diet should be primarily animal-based, with minimal carbohydrates and a high moisture content to support digestion and hydration.
Free From Harmful Additives
Avoid artificial flavors, colors, and synthetic preservatives, as they offer no nutritional value and can potentially lead to negative health outcomes. Opt for foods with natural ingredients.
Easy for Kittens to Eat
Young kittens with developing teeth often find soft, wet food easiest to consume. As they mature and their adult teeth emerge, some may transition to dry food. Ensuring the food’s texture is appropriate for your kitten’s age and chewing ability is crucial.
Frequently Asked Questions
When Should You Start Feeding Kitten Food?
Kittens typically begin transitioning from their mother’s milk to solid food around four weeks of age. By seven weeks, they should be fully weaned and eating a solid food diet.
How Often Should You Feed Your Kitten?
Kittens generally thrive on 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 varied textures and flavors during kittenhood can help prevent pickiness later in life. While some advocate for feeding a single food, variety can encourage a more adaptable palate.
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. This transition should be gradual.
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 and calories, which can lead to obesity in adult cats if fed exclusively. It might be suitable for helping underweight adult cats gain weight, but consult your veterinarian.
