As our little fur ball grows towards becoming an adult, the type of nutrition also changes. When they are small, a rich diet is necessary to become a healthy cat. But as they reach a certain stage, extra amounts of nutrients are not required.
This transition can be tricky for most pet parents but do not worry. You can always ask your vet if you are not quite sure. So, when should you opt for kitten to cat food? For more detailed information, let’s dive in the article.
When to switch from kitten food to cat food?
Well, this is certainly a big question. As mentioned above, when your cat reaches the age of 10-12 months, it’s probably the ideal time. By this stage, their body weight will be close enough to that of an adult. Most cats are ready for switching to cat food by this age. However, it is important to note that it can be different for all cats.
Some cats reach up to that stage quite early while some might take time. Usually, the larger breeds will require a period of 18 - 24 months to start cat food. If you are not really sure about when is the right time to switch, ask your vet!
Why is cat food important?
As we grow older, our nutritional needs also evolve. We do not follow the same diet like we used to, in our childhood. It is the same case for your kitten. Kitten food is tailor made for their nutritional requirements. It is extremely rich in vitamins, minerals and omega 3 fatty acids. They require a high level of calories for better growth and development.
On the other hand, adult cats do not want such food which is rich in fats and proteins. The outcome of feeding kitten food can be weight gain. You surely do not want your pet to be surrounded by diseases. Overweight can be the cause of arthritis, diabetes and other dangerous issues. So, make sure to stop feeding them kitten food at the appropriate age.
How to switch from kitten food?
Any change needs to take place gradually. Cats have a strong system of microbes inside their body that supports digestion. Hence, it can make the beginning a bit uncomfortable for your pet. There can be resisting behavior too but keep it slow and steady. Here are some tips :
● Start with 75% of the kitten diet and the remaining with cat food. This is a good way to initiate because it will not be harsh for your kitty. ● When you find them comfortable, distribute it equally. Keep it 50-50. ● Now, you are almost there! Increase the proportion of cat food from 50 to 75%.
The ideal time to make these changes is 7-10 days. But if your pet adapts quickly, gor for 3-4 days. During this phase, monitor digestive issues, if any. It can be uneasy at the start but your cat will be used to it. If you notice any severe effects, consult your vet.
Is cat food harmful for kittens?
This instance might happen, especially if you have multiple cats at home. However, there’s nothing to be worried about even if your kitten eats cat food. It is obviously not hazardous to their health. Although there are no nutritional benefits.
As stated earlier, cat food does not contain the similar amount of nutrients like kitten food. Kittens are way more active and need a lot of calories. On the other hand, it is essential to remember that cats must be kept away from kitten food.
In a nutshell,
We hope the article helped you to get an understanding about the when and how’s. Good diet plays a vital role in your pet’s development. Hence, ensure to stay careful about every little change. Choose high quality food brands to avoid health issues.
If you have slight doubts about your cat’s nutrition, your vet can help you. It is not going to be the same for all cats. There are different factors like breed, age, etc. that will determine when your kitten is ready for cat food. Additionally, check through all possible resources before making a decision.
