How to Feed A Four-week-old Kitten (Complete Guide)
When a kitten reaches the four-week mark, many owners start to feel overwhelmed. This is the age when the weaning process begins, the gradual transition from milk to solid food. It’s an exciting milestone, but also a delicate one.
A kitten’s growth and development are directly tied to proper nutrition, and following the right feeding schedule is critical. At this stage, bottle-feeding or nursing from the mother should still continue, while slowly introducing soft, solid foods. The adjustment takes time, and the change in eating habits can feel stressful for both the kitten and the owner.
Handled with patience and the right approach, though, weaning becomes a rewarding process that sets your kitten up for a healthy future.
Disclaimer: I’m not a veterinarian. This article is based on general experience and research. Always consult your veterinarian for specific advice about your kitten’s health and nutrition.
🐱 Why Feeding at Four Weeks Is So Important
At four weeks old, kittens are at a crucial stage of development. They’re beginning the weaning process, moving from mother’s milk or bottle-feeding to eating solid foods. This transition is exciting but delicate, proper nutrition now sets the foundation for a healthy, happy adult cat.
🍼 Understanding the Weaning Process
-
What it is: Weaning is the gradual process of reducing milk feedings while introducing solid food.
-
How long it takes: Typically from 4 to 6 weeks of age.
-
Why it matters: It helps kittens develop chewing and digestion skills, ensures balanced nutrition, and teaches them independence.
At this stage, your kitten still needs formula or mother’s milk, but you can begin adding soft foods.
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This helps keep the blog running at no extra cost to you.
🍲 Step-by-Step Feeding Guide for a 4-Week-Old Kitten
1. Keep Bottle-Feeding (But Start Reducing Gradually)
Continue feeding kitten milk replacer (KMR) from a bottle or syringe, following the instructions on the package. Avoid cow’s milk, which can upset their stomach.
2. Introduce a Soft Gruel
Mix kitten formula with high-quality wet kitten food to create a thin, soupy mixture. Warm it slightly to room temperature.
3. Use the Right Feeding Tools
At first, you can offer the gruel via a bottle or spoon . As your kitten becomes more comfortable, transition to a shallow dish.
4. Increase Solid Food Gradually
Each day, make the mixture a little thicker by reducing the formula and adding more wet food. By week six, most kittens can eat solid wet food on its own.
5. Provide Fresh Water at All Times
Even though they’re still drinking formula, kittens should always have access to fresh water in a small bowl .
See my full list of recommended supplies for feeding a 4-week-old kitten here [ Amazon list].
✅ Do’s and Don’ts of Feeding a Four-Week-Old Kitten
Do:
-
Use a reputable kitten milk replacer
-
Warm food to room temperature before offering.
-
Weigh your kitten daily with a small digital scale to track growth.
-
Keep feeding areas clean to prevent illness.
Don’t:
-
Don’t give cow’s milk — it lacks essential nutrients and can cause diarrhea.
-
Don’t switch foods too quickly — gradual is best.
-
Don’t skip feedings; kittens need frequent small meals at this age.
📊 How Much to Feed a 4-Week-Old Kitten
| Kitten Weight | Daily Caloric Requirement | Formula Per Day | Amount Per Feeding (ml) | Feedings Per Day |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 16 oz (1 lb / 454 g) | 91 kcal | 123 ml | 18 ml | 5 |
| 1 lb 2 oz (510 g) | 102 kcal | 138 ml | 20 ml | 4 |
Use these numbers as a guideline and adjust based on your kitten’s condition. Your vet can help you determine the right amounts.
📝 Must-Have Supplies for Feeding a 4-Week-Old Kitten
Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This helps keep the blog running at no extra cost to you.
-
🍼 Kitten Milk Replacer (KMR): specially formulated milk for kittens who aren’t fully weaned yet.
-
🥄 Kitten Feeding Bottles or Syringes : small, soft-nipple bottles make feeding easier.
-
🍲 Wet Kitten Food for Weaning: high-quality starter food to mix with formula.
-
🥣 Shallow Feeding Dish: helps kittens learn to lap up food instead of nursing.
-
💧 Small Water Bowl or Fountain: encourages kittens to start drinking water.
-
⚖️ Digital Pet Scale: track your kitten’s weight gain daily to make sure they’re growing.
-
🧴DIY Pet-Safe Cleaner : Make your own gentle, non-toxic solution by mixing equal parts white vinegar and warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap. This homemade cleaner is handy for wiping up spills or messes during feeding and is safe around kittens once the area is dry. ARTICLE HERE
-
📖 Kitten Care & Feeding Guide Book : a reference guide for new owners.
- 🧸 Kitten Toy for Playtime: soft, safe toy to keep your kitten entertained and encourage healthy exercise and bonding.
See my full list of recommended supplies for feeding a 4-week-old kitten here [ Amazon list].
💡 Final Thoughts
Feeding a four-week-old kitten takes patience and consistency. By gradually introducing soft food while still providing formula, you’ll help your kitten grow strong and healthy. Always monitor your kitten’s weight and energy levels, and check with your vet if you have any concerns.
With the right care (and a little love), this stage can be a fun bonding experience for you and your new furry friend.
