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Friends for Life Animal Outreach
Caring for Your Cat

Feeding Kittens and Cats

Cats are carnivores. They require foods rich in animal proteins, so don't feed your kitten grain-based foods. They can't obtain animal protein from grain, only from the additives, which may not provide the proper protein balance. Give them food with animal protein, such as chicken meal as a main ingredient.

Kittens

Kittens need kitten food. To sustain healthy growth, kittens require a certain ration of protein and fat, and a higher level of minerals and vitamins than adult cats require. Always have plenty of fresh water available. Refill the water dish with fresh water daily. Refer to the following chart for what and when to feed your kitten.

Feeding Schedule for Your New Kitten

Kitten's Age	Number of Feedings	What to Feed
5-6 weeks (weaned)	4 times per day	Dry kitten food mixed with tepid water
8 weeks	4 times per day	Moist kitten food (mixed with less water)
3 months	3 times per day	Dry kitten food
6 months	2 times per day	Dry kitten food

Adult Cats

For normally healthy adult cats, place their daily requirement of food in the dish once each day. Allow your cat to eat "free choice" throughout the day. This style of feeding is crucial for maintaining urinary tract health. If you feed canned food, throw out any leftovers from the previous meal.

Avoid any brand with by-products. Chicken by-products may include heads, feet, and internal organs. All of these are high in protein, but most cats cannot digest them no matter how hungry they are. Meat by-products can be equally non-nutritious.

Look for foods that contain sunflower oil or poultry fat. These are good sources of essential fatty acids, such as linoleic acid, which give your cat a sleek, shiny coat.

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Friends for Life Animal Outreach
P.O. Box 60082
Sacramento, CA 95860

Voice Mail (916) 551-3881
E-mail info@friends4life.org

FFLAO is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization