The first bowl matters: A 5-step nutritional guide for young pets

When a puppy or kitten enters your life, you are not just welcoming a companion but also taking the responsibility of giving them a good future. The early weeks are when your pet is most vulnerable and most impressionable. From organ development to immune system strengthening and behavioural imprinting, everything hinges on how these first few weeks unfold.
Among all aspects of early care, nutrition is the cornerstone. It plays a pivotal role in nearly every function of a growing body. The food choices you make at this stage don’t just influence how fast your pet grows but it also impacts how well they grow. The right diet helps build lean muscle, support brain development, strengthen bones and joints, balance the gut microbiome, and build resilience against disease. It even influences your pet’s behaviour, as nutrients like omega fatty acids and amino acids are directly linked to cognitive and emotional development. Simply put, early nutrition lays the foundation for a lifetime of health and happiness.
Getting nutrition right: A complete guide to raising healthy puppies and kittens
Whether you're a first-time pet parent or caring for a recently weaned or orphaned animal, this 5-step guide will help you build a strong nutritional foundation for your puppy or kitten.
Kittens and puppies have different biological needs and they’re very different from adult pets too. A young puppy or kitten should never be given cow’s milk, which is hard to digest and can lead to diarrhea. Instead, offer a species-appropriate milk replacer that mimics a mother’s milk in composition. As they begin weaning, transition slowly to a high-quality starter formula suited to their age and breed.
Once they’re ready for solids, ensure their diet is labelled as 'complete and balanced'. This means it meets all the nutritional standards for growth and development. Check that it contains:
A good rule of thumb? Always read the label. Look for reputable formulations, preferably designed with veterinary guidance.
It is important to remember that the growth of your kitten or puppy is beyond its size. It is about systems maturing together. Ensure your pet’s food includes:
These nutrients must be provided in the right ratios to ensure effective absorption and use.
Young pets have sensitive tummies. Choose diets that include prebiotics, probiotics, and dietary fibre to promote healthy digestion and reduce bloating or discomfort. Also, fresh, clean water should always be available. Kittens in particular may not drink enough on their own, so wet food can help meet hydration needs while being easier to digest during early weaning. Make sure your pets stay off onions, garlic, chocolate, grapes, raisins, or xylitol. Also, when switching food types or brands, do so over 7–10 days to prevent digestive distress.
Step 5: Practice portion control
Feeding the right quantity is just as important as feeding the right food. Follow age- and weight-specific feeding guidelines to avoid underfeeding or overfeeding. Overfeeding, especially during growth spurts, can lead to excess weight and future health problems.
Always consult a veterinarian, especially if your puppy or kitten is adopted, orphaned, or has had a rough start. A vet can help assess your pet’s specific nutritional needs, guide you on appropriate food choices, flag any allergies or intolerances, and help you plan a suitable feeding schedule. Veterinary input is invaluable in the first year, when so much of your pet’s growth and development is underway.
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While nutrition takes centre stage, the following practices help amplify its benefits:
Keep them warm and comfortable: Newborn puppies and kittens can’t regulate their body temperature well. A cosy setup with soft bedding and warm blankets in a quiet, draft-free area is vital.
Stick to a vaccination and deworming schedule: Puppies and kittens need vaccinations starting at 6–8 weeks of age, and deworming as early as 2–3 weeks old.
Hygiene is important, but remember to keep it gentle: Avoid giving full baths in the early days unless absolutely necessary. Instead, wipe them clean using a soft, damp cloth. Change their bedding regularly and keep the area dry.
Socialisation starts now: Handle your pet gently and regularly from the start. The window for early socialisation is short and is typically between 3 to 14 weeks. It shapes how they respond to the world for the rest of their lives.
Let them sleep: Puppies and kittens spend most of their time sleeping, and for good reason. Sleep supports growth, brain development, and immunity. Avoid waking them up for play or feeding unless absolutely necessary.
Track their milestones: Watch for key signs of healthy development in the early weeks. Eyes typically open between 10 to 14 days, followed by their first unsteady steps around the 3-week mark.
Introduce early dental habits: Teething usually begins around 3–6 weeks. Safe chew toys can help, and this is also a good time to start gently touching their mouth to get them used to future dental care.
Litter box training for kittens: Begin litter training as early as 3–4 weeks of age. Choose a shallow, accessible litter box placed in a quiet corner.
Early care is the foundation of a pet’s lifelong health and happiness. The routines, habits, and decisions made in these first few weeks influence everything from physical growth to emotional resilience. With the right nutrition, a nurturing environment, and timely guidance, you are setting the stage for a lifetime of wellbeing for your pet.
Author:
Dr. Jiyaul Hoque
Senior Veterinarian
Mars Petcare
Disclaimer: This article has been produced on behalf of Mars International by Times Internet’s Spotlight team