Kittens need different food from adult cats  
As kittens are growing rapidly, and their digestive and immune systems are developing slowly, they have very specific nutritional needs that are different from adult cats. In particular, kittens need a diet with a higher energy and protein content, plus immune-boosting nutrients and the right balance of vitamins and minerals.    

Birth to 4 months  
During this intense growth period, kittens need a diet rich in antioxidants to help build their immunity. They are ready to wean at four to eight weeks and, initially, their food should have a very soft texture to help them move on from milk. Royal Canin’s Mother and Babycat helps support the 1st age kitten’s natural defences thanks to a patented* complex of antioxidants. Tiny kibble, with a texture adapted to the very young kitten’s jaw and milk teeth can be easily rehydrated to form soft texture to facilitate weaning.    

4 to 12 months  
Your kitten’s digestive and immune systems are strengthening but still fragile. Their growth rate and energy needs begin to slow, but they still need easily digestible food like Royal Canin’s Kitten designed for developing kittens.     

Adult cats  
Once your kitten’s adult teeth are in place at around 12 months, you can slowly switch to adult food. An adult cat’s nutritional needs depend on factors including their size, breed, activity levels and whether they have been sterilised. It’s worth getting advice from your vet about switching to the right adult food at the right time for your cat.    

Senior cats  
To support their health and slow down the progression of diseases associated with ageing, your senior cat’s diet should include specific nutrients. For instance, glucosamine, chondroitin and free fatty acids like EPA/DHA, together with green-lipped mussel extract, help to increase mobility in ageing cats.   

Digestive impairments can be alleviated with precisely formulated diets and the right selection of high-quality nutrients. Highly digestible proteins, for instance, help support digestion in mature cats. Older cats can suffer with chronic kidney disease and urinary problems. Phosphorus restriction in the diet of a predisposed mature cat may help to delay the appearance of the condition.   

For a senior cat, there are four aspects to their diet: for it to be easy to digest, to be complete and balanced, to maintain their wellbeing, and to slow down the processes associated with ageing. Check out Royal Canin’s range of products for senior cats: Indoor 7+, Ageing 12+, and veterinary exclusive Senior Consult. Do consult your vet before changing your senior cat’s diet.