
๐ผ How to Feed a Kitten (Newborn to 8 Weeks Old)
Feeding kittens takes time and patience, but it’s a rewarding experience. Here’s a clear guide broken down by age group to help you care for them safely and gently. Key is to monitor their weight and trust the process!
๐พ Newborn to 2 Weeks Old
- Feeding Method: Kitten formula (never cowโs milk) in a kitten bottle or syringe.
- How Often: Every 2โ3 hours (including overnight).
- Amount per Feeding:
- Newborn to 1 week: 2โ6 ml
- 1 to 2 weeks: 6โ10 ml
(Note: These are general guidelines. Some kittens may eat more or less โ that’s okay!)
Feeding Tips:
- Warm formula to body temperature.
- Feed slowly to avoid getting milk in their lungs.
- Trust the kitten โ when they start chewing on the syringe or turning away, theyโre full.
- Do NOT give kittens plain water in a syringe โ they get all hydration from the formula at this age.
After Feeding:
- Gently wipe the kittenโs bottom with a warm, damp cloth or tissue to help them go potty.
๐พ 2 Weeks to 4 Weeks Old
- Feeding Method: Continue with kitten formula using bottle or syringe.
- How Often: Every 3โ4 hours (they may start sleeping longer at night).
- Amount per Feeding:
- 2 to 3 weeks: 10โ14 ml
- 3 to 4 weeks: 14โ18 ml
Feeding Tips:
- Go slow! Squeeze gently and give breaks if needed.
- Let them decide when theyโre done โ chewing or turning away is a sign theyโre full.
- Continue bottle or syringe feeding until they confidently lap formula on their own.
- Start offering a shallow dish of water around 3โ4 weeks old, may need to give water with syringe (2-3ml at a time).
After Feeding:
- Continue cleaning their bottom to help with potty needs.
๐พ 4 Weeks to 8 Weeks Old
- Feeding Method: Introduce a mix of wet kitten food and formula (โgruelโ) in a shallow dish.
- How Often: Every 4โ6 hours. Reduce bottle feeding as they start eating on their own.
- Amount per Feeding:
- 4 to 5 weeks: 18โ22 ml formula
- 6 to 8 weeks: Gradually transition to mostly wet food, formula as needed (Make sure they are gaining weigh)
Feeding Tips:
- Offer meals on a schedule and let kittens eat until satisfied.
- Always go slow and gentle if still using a syringe or bottle.
- Continue providing a shallow dish of water so they learn to drink on their own.
After Feeding:
- Clean any messy bottoms or faces. Theyโre still learning!
๐ Important Reminders
โ
Feed kittens slowly to avoid choking or getting milk in their airways.
โ
Trust kittens to stop when full โ watch for chewing, turning away, or slowing down.
โ
Never give water by syringe โ water is introduced in a shallow dish around 3โ4 weeks.
โ
Always clean their bottoms after feeding to keep them clean and stimulate bathroom needs.
With love, patience, and careful feeding, your kitten will grow strong and healthy! ๐พ๐
Awesome Charts for Reference:

