Published Jan 1, 2026
Kirsten McCarthy / Cats.com
Just like your kitten, the best kitten food packs plenty of energy in a small package. It’s calorie-dense, rich in protein, and loaded with omega-3s to support brain and eye development. But not every food marketed for kittens is worthy of your baby’s bowl.
Our top recommendation is Smalls Ground Other Bird Fresh Cat Food. This fresh food has everything your kitten needs without excessive carbs, colors, and other additives. It receives positive customer reviews and comes from an innovative company.
Keep reading to learn more about your kitten’s nutritional requirements and how we chose the best kitten foods on the market.
At a Glance: Top 11 Best Wet Cat Foods to Buy
In the comparison table below, we’ve highlighted some of the most important features of each product. You’ll find more detailed information about each product later in the article.
Smalls Ground Other Bird Fresh Cat Food
- Single source of high-quality animal protein
- Rich in moisture to support your kitten’s hydration
- Good source of omega-3 fatty acids
Open Farm Kitten Grain-Free Dry Cat Food
- First four ingredients are animal-based proteins
- Contains salmon oil as an animal source of DHA
- Made with humanely raised, ethically sourced ingredients
Weruva Kitten Minced Chicken & Tuna Formula in Gravy Wet Cat Food
- Contains nearly 68% protein (measured as dry matter)
- Good source of hydrating moisture for kittens
- Minced texture and flavorful gravy appeal to many kittens
Hill’s Science Diet Kitten Healthy Development Chicken Recipe Dry Cat Food
- 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
Tiki Cat Baby Chicken, Salmon, & Chicken Liver Recipe Wet Cat Food
- Easy-to-chew combination of shreds and mousse
- Rich in animal-sourced protein
- Enriched with DHA for brain development
Purina ONE Healthy Kitten Chicken & Salmon Recipe Paté Wet Kitten Food
- Relies primarily on animal-sourced ingredients
- Rich in moisture to support your kitten’s hydration
- Multi-protein formula may appeal to picky eaters
Wellness CORE Kitten Turkey & Chicken Liver Pâté
- One of the most protein-packed kitten foods on the market
- Ultra-soft pate texture is easy for kittens to eat
- Calorie-dense recipe to fuel growth and development
Fancy Feast Kitten Tender Turkey Feast Canned Cat Food
- 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
The Honest Kitchen Grain-Free Chicken Câté Wet Cat Food
- 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
Nulo Freestyle Turkey & Duck Recipe Cat & Kitten Grain-Free Dry Cat Food
- Rich in animal-sourced protein
- Good source of omega-3 fatty acids
- Disc-shaped kibbles are easy for kittens to eat
Wellness Complete Health Kitten Chicken Entree Pâté Canned Cat Food
- Made primarily with animal-based protein sources
- Contains menhaden fish oil for DHA
- Highly palatable and hydrating canned food
Why Trust Cats.com
Kirsten McCarthy / Cats.com
Kirsten McCarthy / Cats.com
Kirsten McCarthy / Cats.com
Before selecting products for testing, I performed in-depth research to identify kittens’ core nutritional needs and determine what makes kitten food different from food for adult cats. After reading hundreds of customer reviews and speaking with market insiders, I selected products for hands-on testing.
All products on this list were purchased at full retail price and tested with the help of my two cats, Wessie and Forest. While they provided their opinions on how the food tasted as well as its general appeal, I made observations on things like texture, consistency, appearance, aroma, and packing.
Throughout the research and testing process, I also consulted veterinary experts to get their opinions on what makes a great kitten food.
Our Veterinary Advisors
- Dr. Sarah Wooten, DVM, CVJ
- Dr. Chris Vanderhoof, DVM, MPH
- Dr. Sarah Reidenbach, DVM
- Dr. Chyrle Bonk, DVM
- Dr. Jamie Whittenburg, DVM
- Dr. Albert Ahn, DVM
- Dr. Elizabeth Youens, DVM
Top Picks Explained
While our top recommendations have recently been updated, we still love the kitten foods Mallory mentions in this video.
The Best Healthy Kitten Food Reviewed: Our Top 11 Recommendations
Your growing kitten needs a protein-packed diet that supplies the energy and nutrients they need to support healthy development. Our top pick is Smalls Ground Other Bird Fresh Cat Food. It’s a meat-based formula packed with animal-based ingredients, including turkey, chicken liver, chicken meat, and chicken meal. However, it may not be the ideal choice for your unique kitten.
We’ve assembled a list of recommendations categorized by food type, price, and age range to help you find the perfect fit. Our rankings are determined by an array of factors but it’s ultimately your kitten’s opinion that matters.
#1 Overall Best: Smalls Ground Other Bird Fresh Cat Food
- Made In: United States
- Guaranteed Protein: 14.5% Min
- Age Range: All Life Stages
- Calories Per Ounce: 40
- Typical Cost Per Day: $4 per day
Smalls is a fresh cat food subscription service that sends monthly deliveries of protein- and moisture-packed fresh food right to your door. All recipes are formulated for cats in all life stages. High protein content and concentrations of healthy fats fuel your kitten’s growth and development.
Kirsten McCarthy / Cats.com
Kirsten McCarthy / Cats.com
Kirsten McCarthy / Cats.com
This Ground Other Bird recipe features turkey as a single source of high-quality animal protein. Turkey muscle meat is the first ingredient followed by turkey liver with a handful of digestible fresh veggies for nutritional support. Cod liver oil is the only source of added fat and a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, including DHA and EPA.
Smalls fresh food is a little expensive, but it’s made with human-grade ingredients and frozen at the peak of freshness to preserve its nutritional value. The food is high in moisture to support your kitten’s hydration and it doesn’t contain any animal by-product meals or artificial additives.
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.
Ingredients We Liked: Turkey, Turkey Liver, Cod Liver Oil
Ingredients We Didn’t Like: None
Guaranteed Analysis
Dry Matter Basis
Caloric Weight Basis
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
What We Didn’t Like:
- Only available as a subscription plan
- No phone support (text and email only)
#2 Best Dry: Open Farm Kitten Grain-Free Dry Cat Food
- Made In: United States
- Guaranteed Protein: 40% Min
- Age Range: All Life Stages
- Calories Per Ounce: 110
- Typical Cost Per Day: $0.80 per day
Formulated to meet the high-protein requirements of growing kittens who prefer dry cat food, this Open Farm formula features a blend of humanely raised chicken and turkey with other ethically and sustainably sourced ingredients. Menhaden fish meal provides supplemental protein a few ingredients later and salmon oil provides an animal-based source of omega-3 fatty acids including DHA.
Kirsten McCarthy / Cats.com
Kirsten McCarthy / Cats.com
Kirsten McCarthy / Cats.com
While this dry kitten food meets AAFCO requirements for kitten growth and development at around 44% crude protein and 21% crude fat (measured as dry matter), it’s higher in carbohydrates than we’d like. It is, however, supplemented with functional ingredients like fiber-rich pumpkin to support healthy digestion and antioxidant-rich cranberries for urinary tract support.
Keep in mind, when feeding your kitten dry food, that kibble doesn’t provide the moisture your kitten needs. Be sure to supplement your kitten’s diet with wet food or an additional source of moisture to ensure optimal hydration.
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.
Ingredients We Liked: Chicken, Turkey, Ocean Whitefish Meal, Herring Meal, Menhaden Fish Meal, Salmon Oil
Ingredients We Didn’t Like: Chickpeas, Green Lentils, Red Lentils
Guaranteed Analysis
Dry Matter Basis
Caloric Weight Basis
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
What We Didn’t Like:
- Contains over 20% dry matter carbohydrate
- No dry food provides the moisture your kitten needs
#3 Best with Gravy: Weruva Kitten Minced Chicken & Tuna Formula in Gravy Wet Cat Food
- Made In: Thailand
- Guaranteed Protein: 11.5% Min
- Age Range: Kitten
- Calories Per Ounce: 29
- Typical Cost Per Day: $4.15 per day
If your kitten has a picky palate or simply loves gravy, they may appreciate this chicken and tuna recipe from Weruva. It’s formulated specifically with kittens in mind, featuring protein-packed chicken, tuna, and egg with a minced texture and a flavorful gravy.
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Measured as dry matter, this recipe provides nearly 68% protein and 29.4% fat. Potato starch is the only significant source of carbohydrate, used primarily as a thickener. Though this ingredient doesn’t offer much in the way of nutritional value, neither does it seem to drive the total carb content of the food too high.
Overall, this recipe seems to be nutritionally balanced and easily digestible for kittens. We’d prefer to see animal-sourced fat over sunflower oil, but fresh tuna likely supplies a decent amount of fat (including omega-3 fatty acids like DHA and EPA). The food is also relatively calorie-dense at about 29 calories per ounce.
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).
Ingredients We Liked: Chicken, Tuna, Dried Egg
Ingredients We Didn’t Like: Potato Starch, Sunflower Oil, Guar Gum
Guaranteed Analysis
Dry Matter Basis
Caloric Weight Basis
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
What We Didn’t Like:
- Relies primarily on plant-sourced fat
- Contains some added carbohydrates that don’t provide valuable nutrients
#4 Vet Recommended Dry: Hill’s Science Diet Kitten Healthy Development Chicken Recipe Dry Cat Food
- Made In: United States
- Guaranteed Protein: 33% Min
- Age Range: Kitten
- Calories Per Ounce: 116
- Typical Cost Per Day: $0.55 per day
If you’re looking for vet recommended kitten food that has a solid reputation among pet parents, this Hill’s Science Diet Healthy Development kitten food could be a good choice. It features plenty of animal-sourced protein and relies mainly on whole grains instead of hard-to-digest legumes as the primary carbohydrate sources.
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
With chicken muscle meat as the first ingredient (and later supplemented by chicken meal and egg product), this recipe contains about 36% protein, measured as dry matter. Wheat gluten is another source of protein but may be less biologically valuable for cats than animal-sourced proteins. Fish oil is the main source of animal-based fat in this recipe, though the flaxseed likely contributes as well.
Overall, this recipe is about what you’d expect from dry cat food. It’s moderately high in protein with low moisture content, and it’s pretty calorie-dense. Like most dry foods, the carbohydrate content is high as well. This food isn’t perfect but if your kitten prefers dry food, this Science Diet recipe has a long history of customer (and cat) satisfaction.
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.
Ingredients We Liked: Chicken, Brown Rice, Chicken Fat, Chicken Meal, Egg Product, Fish Oil
Ingredients We Didn’t Like: Wheat Gluten
Guaranteed Analysis
Dry Matter Basis
Caloric Weight Basis
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
What We Didn’t Like:
- No dry food provides the hydrating moisture your kitten needs
- Like most dry foods, fairly high carbohydrate content
#5 Best Moist: Tiki Cat Baby Chicken, Salmon, & Chicken Liver Recipe Wet Cat Food
- Made In: Thailand
- Guaranteed Protein: 15% Min
- Age Range: All Life Stages
- Calories Per Ounce: 35
- Typical Cost Per Day: $5.80 per day
Packed with animal-sourced protein, this wet kitten food is a species-appropriate choice. Chicken muscle meat, fresh salmon, and chicken liver make up the bulk of the food’s 68% dry matter protein content. The food contains over 22% dry matter fat and minimal carbohydrates.
Kirsten McCarthy / Cats.com
Kirsten McCarthy / Cats.com
Kirsten McCarthy / Cats.com
Not only is this Tiki Cat recipe formulated to support the needs of growing kittens, but it comes in a texture that’s easy to chew. It consists of a layer of smooth mousse topped with fine shreds making it the best moist kitten food on our list.
Priced around $1.00 per ounce , this kitten food might be a bit of a splurge for some cat owners. The small cans are well-suited to feeding kittens, however, and you can always use them as a meal topper or mixer for a more affordable kitten food.
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.
Ingredients We Liked: Chicken, Salmon, Chicken Liver, Dried Egg, Salmon Oil
Ingredients We Didn’t Like: None
Guaranteed Analysis
Dry Matter Basis
Caloric Weight Basis
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
What We Didn’t Like:
- Costs about $1.00 per ounce
#6 Best for Picky Eaters: Purina ONE Healthy Kitten Chicken & Salmon Recipe Paté Wet Kitten Food
- Made In: United States
- Guaranteed Protein: 11% Min
- Age Range: Kitten
- Calories Per Ounce: 35
- Typical Cost Per Day: $2.50 per day
Whether you’re weaning your kitten or simply having trouble finding a food they like, this moisture-rich, multi-protein formula could be a good choice. It’s made entirely with animal-sourced ingredients, plus supplements and a little guar gum to thicken the food.
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
Kate Barrington / Cats.com
With fresh chicken as the primary ingredient, this Purina ONE Healthy Kitten wet food provides nearly 47% protein (measured as dry matter). It gets supplemental protein from liver, pork lungs, and salmon. According to information provided by Chewy, the liver in this food is derived from pork and poultry.
Not only is this recipe protein-packed and moisture-rich, but it’s relatively low in carbohydrates. Many kittens seem to like the smooth paté texture and the recipe is pretty calorie-dense as well. Just keep in mind that it may not be appropriate for kittens with allergies to chicken, pork, or fish.
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.
Ingredients We Liked: Chicken, Liver, Pork Lungs, Salmon
Ingredients We Didn’t Like: Guar Gum
Guaranteed Analysis
Dry Matter Basis
Caloric Weight Basis
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
What We Didn’t Like:
- Guar gum may trigger loose stools in some kittens
- Might not be appropriate for kittens with chicken, fish, or pork allergies
#7 Best Pate: Wellness CORE Kitten Turkey & Chicken Liver Pâté
- Made In: Canada, United States
- Guaranteed Protein: 12% Min
- Age Range: All Life Stages
- Calories Per Ounce: 38
- Typical Cost Per Day: $3.70 per day
Featuring species-appropriate protein from turkey, chicken, herring, and nutrient-dense organ meats, this Wellness CORE formula contains over 54% protein (measured as dry matter). It’s an easily digestible formula rich in hydrating moisture and low in carbohydrates that comes in a smooth, easy-to-eat pâté.
Kirsten McCarthy / Cats.com
Kirsten McCarthy / Cats.com
Kirsten McCarthy / Cats.com
On top of being protein-packed, the inclusions of herring and fish oil in this recipe make the food a good source of DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid that contributes to brain and eye development in kittens. This recipe does contain sunflower oil but the primary source of added fat (fish oil) is animal-based.
Because it’s made mostly with animal ingredients and is rich in moisture, this food is an easily digestible choice for many kittens. It’s also relatively calorie-dense at 38 calories per ounce, so you might not have to feed your kitten portions as large as you might with a leaner formula. Plus, the food is formulated to meet AAFCO nutrition guidelines for all life stages, so you can continue to feed it to your cat when they reach adulthood.
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.
Ingredients We Liked: Turkey, Chicken Liver, Chicken, Herring, Chicken Hearts, Fish Oil
Ingredients We Didn’t Like: Guar Gum, Sunflower Oil, Cassia Gum, Xanthan Gum
Guaranteed Analysis
Dry Matter Basis
Caloric Weight Basis
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
What We Didn’t Like:
- Gum thickeners may trigger loose stool in some cats
#8 Best Budget: Fancy Feast Kitten Tender Turkey Feast Canned Cat Food
- Made In: United States
- Guaranteed Protein: 11% Min
- Age Range: Kittens
- Calories Per Ounce: 31
- Typical Cost Per Day: $1.95 per day
This unpretentious formula from Fancy Feast emphasizes animal ingredients, keeps carbohydrates to a minimum, and has a reputation for both affordability and palatability. The recipe isn’t perfect, though. It contains both natural and artificial flavors, includes artificial colors, and uses meat by-products.
Kirsten McCarthy / Cats.com
Kirsten McCarthy / Cats.com
Kirsten McCarthy / Cats.com
Meat by-products are often inaccurately portrayed as bad or unhealthy ingredients. According to the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), by-products are defined as what’s left over after the initial processing of a particular product. These by-products are then processed to kill disease-causing bacteria before being included in pet food.
So, although the word ‘by-product’ sounds off-putting, the presence of by-products in your kitten’s food does not necessarily make it less healthy or lower quality than a by-product-free food. Similarly, the presence of cow’s milk may or may not be an issue. Most cats are lactose intolerant and may have diarrhea after eating milk, though, customer reviews suggest that this reaction is rare.
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.
Ingredients We Liked: Turkey, Meat By-Products, Liver, Fish, Egg Product
Ingredients We Didn’t Like: Milk, Artificial Flavors, Guar Gum, Added Color
Guaranteed Analysis
Dry Matter Basis
Caloric Weight Basis
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
What We Didn’t Like:
- Contains meat by-products and artificial colors/flavors
- Contains milk which could cause GI upset in some kittens
#9 Best Human-Grade Wet: The Honest Kitchen Grain-Free Chicken Câté Wet Cat Food
- Made In: United States
- Guaranteed Protein: 10% Min
- Age Range: All Life Stages
- Calories Per Ounce: 31
- Typical Cost Per Day: $3.92 per day
If you’re interested in human-grade food for your kitten, you might be interested in wet food from The Honest Kitchen. While most kitten food is considered feed-grade and produced in facilities that only handle pet food, The Honest Kitchen prepares, cooks, and transports all of its products according to human food manufacturing standards.
Kirsten McCarthy / Cats.com
Kirsten McCarthy / Cats.com
Kirsten McCarthy / Cats.com
Formulated for both adult cats and kittens, The Honest Kitchen’s food is rich in protein from animal sources, featuring chicken as its primary ingredient. In addition to chicken meat, the food contains salmon oil, which is a good source of animal-based omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for your kitten’s brain and eye development.
The food comes in resealable and recyclable 5.5-ounce cardboard cartons. It is on the more expensive side at over $0.59 per ounce , but that price may be worth it for a top-quality, human-grade food for your kitten.
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.
Ingredients We Liked: Chicken, Chicken Liver, Salmon Oil
Ingredients We Didn’t Like: None
Guaranteed Analysis
Dry Matter Basis
Caloric Weight Basis
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
What We Didn’t Like:
- Contains some unnecessary plant ingredients
- Price on the high side
#10 Best Budget Dry: Nulo Freestyle Cat & Kitten Grain-Free Dry Cat Food
- Made In: United States
- Guaranteed Protein: 40% Min
- Age Range: All Life Stages
- Calories Per Ounce: 106
- Typical Cost Per Day: $0.56 per day
Featuring turkey, fish, and duck as main ingredients, this budget-friendly dry cat food contains over 44% dry matter protein. With yellow peas, red lentils, and chickpeas on the list, however, it’s hard to say how much plant protein contributes to that total. The food relies primarily on animal-sourced fat, offering a dry matter total of 20%.
Kirsten McCarthy / Cats.com
Kirsten McCarthy / Cats.com
Kirsten McCarthy / Cats.com
With flavors from multiple animal proteins, many kittens find this Nulo Freestyle recipe appealing. The small, disc-shaped kibbles are easy for kittens to chew, and because the recipe is formulated for all life stages, your kitten can continue to enjoy it into adulthood, making it our best affordable kitten food on this list.
Like any dry food, this recipe doesn’t provide the hydrating moisture your kitten needs and it’s higher in carbs than we’d like. Consider pairing it with a wet food topper or adding some warmed bone broth before feeding.
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.
Ingredients We Liked: Deboned Turkey, Turkey Meal, Menhaden Fish Meal, Deboned Cod, Chicken Fat, Deboned Duck
Ingredients We Didn’t Like: Yellow Peas, Red Lentils, Chickpeas
Guaranteed Analysis
Dry Matter Basis
Caloric Weight Basis
What We Liked:
- Rich in animal-sourced protein
- Good source of omega-3 fatty acids
- Disc-shaped kibbles are easy for kittens to eat
What We Didn’t Like:
- Contains some hard-to-digest peas and legumes
- No dry food provides the moisture your cat needs
#11 Best for Sensitive Stomachs: Wellness Complete Health Kitten Chicken Entree Paté Canned Cat Food
- Made In: Canada
- Guaranteed Protein: 11% Min
- Age Range: Kittens
- Calories Per Ounce: 39
- Typical Cost Per Day: $2.82 per day
This grain-free smooth loaf from Wellness’ Complete Health line is slightly cheaper than the Wellness CORE recipe listed above. But with protein-rich chicken and chicken liver leading the ingredient list, it looks like a nutritious, species-appropriate option.
Kirsten McCarthy / Cats.com
Kirsten McCarthy / Cats.com
Kirsten McCarthy / Cats.com
The food’s biggest flaw is its carbohydrate content, which is around 18% (measured as dry matter), though that’s significantly lower than the average dry cat food. It’s a good thing, however, that the carbohydrate sources in this recipe are mostly nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables rather than hard-to-digest beans and legumes.
Overall, this recipe seems to be primarily animal-based and easily digestible for many kittens. It’s worth noting that gum thickeners may trigger loose stools in some cats, but it doesn’t seem to be a big problem with this recipe (based on customer reviews). Plus, the smooth pate-style texture is a great fit for 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.
Ingredients We Liked: Chicken, Chicken Liver, Chicken Hearts, Fish Oil
Ingredients We Didn’t Like: Guar Gum, Cassia Gum, Xanthan Gum
Guaranteed Analysis
Dry Matter Basis
Caloric Weight Basis
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
What We Didn’t Like:
- Gum thickeners may trigger loose stools in some kittens
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% |
| Ash | 2.29 | 10.79 | 2.51 | 10.5 | 1.2 | 3.1 | 2 | 3.5 | N/A | 9 | 2.51 |
| Calcium | 0.49 | 2.3 | 1.28 | 1.44 | 0.23 | 0.65 | 0.33 | 0.3 | 0.36 | 2.08 | 1.28 |
| Phosphorus | 0.37 | 1.6 | 1.06 | 1.2 | 0.23 | 0.47 | 0.29 | 0.45 | 0.3 | 1.34 | 1.06 |
| 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
All cats have the same baseline nutritional needs, but kittens require higher levels of protein and fat to fuel their growth and development. Providing your kitten with a nutritionally balanced diet is crucial, particularly while they’re still growing. If you want to give your kitten a strong start in life, it’s all about choosing the right kitten food.
Emma Passman, a commercial pet nutritionist and one of our veterinary advisors, says, “Kittens require high-quality animal protein for proper muscle, bone, and organ development.” She also recommends a recipe enriched with taurine, DHA, calcium, and phosphorus to support your kitten’s brain, eye, and bone development.
Here are some qualities to look for when shopping for kitten food:
Rich in Protein
Protein is the foundation of a healthy diet for cats of all ages. Compared to adult cats, however, kittens are more sensitive to both the quantity and quality of that protein. While adult cats need at least 6.5 grams of protein per 100 calories according to the AAFCO’s nutrient profiles, kittens need 7.5 grams or more.
On a kitten food label, the protein content will be listed as a percentage in the guaranteed analysis. For dry kitten food (average moisture content of 8%–10%), look for a minimum of 28% crude protein. For wet kitten food (average moisture content of 78%–80%), look for a minimum of 7% crude protein. When converted to dry matter, these values meet AAFCO’s minimum protein recommendation for kittens of at least 30%.
Calorie-Dense
Kittens need more calories per pound of body weight than the average adult cat to support their rapid growth. A calorie-dense diet for kittens should contain a balance of protein and fat to ensure that most of their growth goes into healthy muscle.
When shopping for kitten food, check the label to determine the food’s caloric density (the number of calories per ounce). The higher the caloric density, the less your kitten will have to eat to meet their needs. You want to avoid feeding your kitten meals bigger than their growing stomach can comfortably handle.
Primarily Animal-Based
As obligate carnivores, kittens require the amino acids found in animal tissue. Animal-sourced protein provides all the amino acids cats and kittens need to thrive while plant-based proteins only contain some of the essential amino acids. Animal-sourced fat is more species-appropriate than plant-based fat, as well.
An ideal diet for cats and kittens is primarily animal-based with minimal carbohydrate content. It’s also rich in moisture which supports healthy digestion as well as your kitten’s hydration. Canned, wet, and other moisture-rich foods help prevent urinary tract issues and promote good overall health.
Free From Harmful Additives
Artificial flavors, coloring agents, and synthetic preservatives have no place in your kitten’s diet. They don’t add to your kitten’s nutrition and they have the potential to contribute to negative health effects which could carry through the rest of your kitten’s life.
Easy for Kittens to Eat
When they’re very young and still have baby teeth, your kitten will likely find it easiest to eat soft, wet food. This could be cooked homemade, fresh, or canned food. As their adult teeth grow in, some kittens will develop a taste for dry food.
Though dry food may provide some mechanical dental benefit in gently scraping plaque off the surface of your cat’s teeth, cats don’t tend to chew their food enough for it to make much difference. There are, however, specially formulated dental dry foods and treats designed specifically for this purpose.
Early in your kitten’s life, however, it’s best to choose foods they can easily eat that meet their nutritional needs. A balanced diet supports oral health by providing essential nutrients like vitamins and minerals that strengthen gums and teeth. Low-carbohydrate, high-protein diets may also reduce sugar levels, helping prevent bacteria buildup that can lead to periodontal disease.
Relevant Articles:
- How to Take Care of a Kitten: The Complete Guide
- How to Kitten-Proof Your Home: 6 Essential Tips
- What to Know When Fostering Kittens: 6 Essential Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
When Should You Start Feeding Kitten Food?
Kittens start transitioning off of their mother’s milk and onto solid food at around four weeks of age. The weaning process is both voluntary and forced. Kittens might get curious about sharing their mother’s food and when they go back to suckle, she’ll begin to push them away.
It’s a gradual process that usually takes a few weeks. By the time kittens are seven weeks old, they should be fully weaned and eating a solid food diet.
How Often Should You Feed Your Kitten?
Kittens are happiest and healthiest when served three or four small meals each day.
Is It Okay to Feed Your Kitten A Variety of Foods or Should They Stick to One Food Only?
To ensure that your cat doesn’t become finicky, it’s a good idea to introduce varied textures and flavors during kittenhood.
Some people, including veterinarians, believe in feeding one food for the entirety of a cat’s life. Not only does relying exclusively on a single protein source set your cat up for food intolerances later in life, but a limited diet also tells your cat that it’s okay to be finicky.
If you allow your kitten to eat nothing but chicken-based pâté for the first 12 months of their life, they’ll likely be reluctant to try new foods when they’re 12 years old.
When Should You Stop Feeding Kitten Food?
When we talked to Dr. Sarah Reidenbach, DVM about this, she shared that she typically recommends that cats switch to an adult diet at 1 year of age, but this varies depending on when the cat reaches physical maturity. Around that time, you can gradually switch your cat off of their kitten food and onto a diet formulated for adult cats. Your veterinarian can advise you on when to transition from kitten food to adult food.
Can Adult Cats Eat Kitten Food?
Adult cats can eat kitten food, but it’s not necessarily a good long-term choice. Compared to products intended for adult cats, kitten food may have more calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and other micronutrients that support skeletal development. For an adult cat, those minerals may be excessive.
Remember that kitten food is packed with calories to fuel babyhood growth. For this reason, it may be a good choice if you need to help your adult cat gain weight. If your cat isn’t underweight, however, eating kitten food could lead to obesity.