Expert Cat Feeding Guide: From Kitten to Senior Health

Written by Jackie Brown, senior content editor at cats.com and seasoned pet care author.

Why Intelligent Feeding Matters

As François de la Rochefoucauld said, 'to eat is a necessity, but to eat intelligently is an art.' Your cat’s diet shapes its health, behavior, and longevity.

Understanding Your Cat’s Nutritional Needs

Throughout life, a cat’s protein, fat, and micronutrient requirements shift. Start with the nutritional adequacy statement on the bag or can. It confirms the food is 'complete and balanced for the intended life stage' per AAFCO standards. Foods labeled 'supplemental feeding only' lack the necessary balance and should not be sole nutrition.

Age‑Based Feeding Guide

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Age	Approximate Weight	Amount to Feed	Schedule
0–1 wk	50–150 g (1.7–5.2 oz)	2–6 ml kitten formula	Every 2 hrs
1–2 wk	150–250 g (5.2–8.8 oz)	6–10 ml kitten formula	Every 2–3 hrs
2–3 wk	250–350 g (8.8–12.4 oz)	10–14 ml kitten formula	Every 3–4 hrs
3–4 wk	350–450 g (12.4–15.9 oz)	14–18 ml kitten formula	Every 4–5 hrs
4–5 wk	450–550 g (15.9 oz–1.1 lb)	18–22 ml kitten formula, start weaning	Every 5–6 hrs
5–8 wk	550–850 g (1.1–1.5 lb)	Unlimited wet kitten food after weaning	Every 6 hrs
8–9 mo	1.5–2.6 lb	250–360 cal/day	Every 6–8 hrs
9–10 mo	1.6–2.9 lb	250–360 cal/day	Every 6–8 hrs
10–11 mo	1.8–3.1 lb	250–360 cal/day	Every 6–8 hrs
11–12 mo	2–3.3 lb	250–360 cal/day	Every 6–8 hrs
12–13 mo	2.2–4 lb	250–360 cal/day	Every 6–8 hrs
13–14 mo	3–4.5 lb	250–360 cal/day	Every 6–8 hrs
14–15 mo	3.5–5 lb	250–360 cal/day	Every 6–8 hrs
15–16 mo	4–5.5 lb	250–360 cal/day	Every 6–8 hrs
4 mo	4–5.5 lb	60–65 cal per lb/day	Every 8 hrs
5 mo	5.1–6 lb	60–65 cal per lb/day	Every 8 hrs
6 mo	5.5–6.5 lb	60–65 cal per lb/day	Every 8–12 hrs
7 mo	6–7 lb	60–65 cal per lb/day	Every 8–12 hrs
8 mo	6.5–7.5 lb	60–65 cal per lb/day	Every 8–12 hrs
9 mo	7–8 lb	60–65 cal per lb/day	Every 8–12 hrs
10 mo	7.5–8.5 lb	60–65 cal per lb/day	Every 8–12 hrs
11 mo	8–9 lb	60–65 cal per lb/day	Every 8–12 hrs
12 mo–adulthood	8–9.5 lb	20–33 cal per lb/day	Every 8–12 hrs

Hydration Is Key

Regardless of dry or wet food, cats need constant access to clean water. Adequate hydration prevents constipation, reduces the risk of urinary tract infections, and supports overall organ health.

Personalize With Your Veterinarian

While this guide provides evidence‑based recommendations, each cat is unique. Work with your vet to adjust portions, consider medical conditions, and choose a brand that meets AAFCO standards.

References

Medical review by JoAnna Pendergrass, DVM.

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