Russian Blue Kitten Feeding Guide: Birth to Adulthood

Feeding a kitten well is the single biggest thing you can do for their long-term health. This guide covers what to feed at each stage, how often, and the common mistakes worth avoiding.

What kittens need

Kittens need far more protein, fat, calcium and calories per kilogram than adult cats — they are growing rapidly. Feed a food formulated for kittens, or one labelled for all life stages. Adult cat food does not meet a growing kitten’s needs.

Feeding by age

• 8 to 12 weeks: three to four small meals a day. Softened dry food or wet food, plus water always available.
• 3 to 6 months: three meals a day.
• 6 to 12 months: two to three meals a day.
• Adult (12 months+): two meals a day, or free-choice dry food if weight is stable.

Russian Blues typically reach adult size at around twelve to eighteen months, though they fill out gradually.

Wet, dry, or both?

Both have a place. Wet food supports hydration and suits cats who drink little — useful for urinary health. Dry food is convenient and helps with dental wear, though it is not a substitute for teeth cleaning. Many owners feed wet in the morning and evening with dry available during the day. If you feed dry only, make sure your cat actually drinks enough.

How much?

Follow the feeding guide on the pack as a starting point, then adjust for your kitten’s condition. You should be able to feel ribs easily under a thin layer of fat, and see a waist from above. If you cannot feel ribs, feed slightly less; if ribs are prominent, feed more. Our guide to healthy weight explains body condition scoring.

Common mistakes

• Changing food abruptly — transition over seven to ten days, mixing increasing amounts of the new food
• Free-feeding without monitoring weight — the most common cause of feline obesity
• Giving cow’s milk — most cats are lactose intolerant; it causes diarrhoea
• Feeding dog food — it does not contain the nutrients cats require
• Too many treats — keep them under about ten per cent of daily intake

Foods to avoid entirely

Onions, garlic, chives, chocolate, grapes and raisins, alcohol, anything containing xylitol, raw bread dough, and cooked bones. If you are ever unsure, call your vet rather than waiting.

Choosing a food

Our guide to the best kitten food in Australia covers labels and ingredients in more detail. And if you ever want a second opinion on what you are feeding, just ask.