Weight management is important to keep your kittens healthy. Excessive weight can lead to obesity and a host of other diseases in the future. Here are a few things you should know that will help you maintain your kitten’s weight.

Assessing growth

A general rule of thumb in kittens is that they typically gain about 1 pound (0.45 kg approximately) per month. Often a kitten’s weight is about 1 pound at 1 month (4 weeks), 2 pounds at 2 months (8 weeks), and so on until about 4-5 months. 

Kittens do most of their growing (both height and weight) within the first year. Many of the growth plates of the bones in the kitten skeleton close by about one year old. At this time, after much of the growth is finished, your vet will typically switch your kitten to an adult diet.

Points to remember

1. Check your kitten’s weight regularly.
2. Refer to the body condition score chart to understand whether your kitten is at an ideal body weight.
3. Monitor your kitten’s food intake, particularly if free-feeding and unable to self-regulate.
4. Provide plenty of playtime with your kitten to expend their energy.
5. Speak to your veterinarian if you have any concerns.