The best foods for hungry, growing kittens, according to vets

NBC Selected independently determines what we cover and recommend. When you click on or buy through our links, we earn a commission. Learn more.CatsThe best wet and dry kitten food of 2026, according to veterinariansSome growing kittens need to eat three or four times a day — here’s how to keep up with their appetite.Updated July 17, 2026, 12:57 PM EDTZoe MalinReporterSkip to table of contentsIdeally, kittens should eat a mix of wet and dry food daily since each type offers different health benefits.AmazonIn this articleOur top picksThe best kitten food in 2026The best dry kitten foodThe best wet kitten foodHow I picked the best kitten foodHow to shop for the best kitten foodHow to feed your kittenMeet our veterinary expertsWhy trust NBC Selected?See 6 MoreEnsuring your kitten grows into a healthy adult cat starts with their diet. The best kitten food supports their development throughout their first year of life and makes them look forward to mealtime. But with dozens of options on the market, how do pet parents decide what dry and wet food to buy? Below, veterinarians break down what to consider while picking a kitten food, including options from Purina, Fancy Feast and Hill’s Science Diet. Experts also shared insights about how much and how often to feed your kitten, plus when to transition them to adult cat food.Selected.Our top picksBest overall dry foodIams ProActive Health Kitten Dry Cat Food$undefined$33.98AmazonLearn moreBest overall wet foodFancy Feast Kitten Tender Ocean Whitefish Feast Canned Cat Food$23.04$26.40ChewyLearn moreBest grain-free dry foodMerrick Purrfect Bistro Grain-Free Healthy Kitten Recipe Dry Food$19.98$22.98ChewyLearn moreBest wet food in gravyRoyal Canin Feline Health Nutrition Thin Slices in Gravy Wet Kitten Food$undefined$54.96AmazonLearn moreSee 1 MoreRelatedselectedselectedNot all cat carriers are airline approved — how to find one that isWant more from NBC Selected? Sign up for our newsletter, The Selection, and shop smarter.The...