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Understanding and learning how to decipher kitten food product codes will help you choose the right kitten food. While selecting the right ingredients is important, making sure those ingredients are fresh is just as vital to your young cat. Learn how to read the product codes of kitten food packages and cans with our handy guide.
A product code is a series of numbers and letters printed on the outer package of each product a manufacturer produces. This code provides information about when and where the kitten food was made.
As part of the product code, IAMS™ products include a “Best Used By” date, or the date at which the product is no longer considered fresh and should no longer be sold. This date is expressed in “ddmmyy” and “ddmmmyy” formats.
The second line of the product code represents company internal information for use in traceability and inventory control.
Line 1: (ddmmyy) (ddmmmyy)
Example: 040220 04FEB20
Line 2: 60351111## QQQQQQQ
This product should be used before February 4, 2020.
Depending on the production line, pouch products* may have code date information in a single or double line. By recognizing and understanding these codes, customers can make sure they are receiving a fresh product.
Shelf life is the duration, measured in months, during which a properly stored kitten food product maintains its freshness. This means if a product has a 16-month shelf life, it is fresh for up to 16 months from the date of manufacture.
The shelf life for IAMS dry kitten foods is 16 months. All canned formulas have a shelf life of 24 months.
Unopened dry kitten food products are best stored off the floor in a cool, dry place. Open bags of kitten food should be stored in a clean, dry container with a tight seal. Dry kitten food products may also be frozen without loss of nutrients.
Opened wet kitten food products are best kept refrigerated in tightly sealed containers for no more than three days after the container has been opened. Wet products should not be frozen in unopened cans. However, wet kitten foods can be frozen if removed from the container, packed in freezer containers and frozen immediately.
*IAMS has no kitten pouch products at this time.
A newborn cat brings endless love and laughter to any household. However, as a new kitten parent, it is important to understand that caring for a kitten is not just about feeding and playing with them. Kittens have specific dietary needs, and it is important to provide them with high-quality kitten food that meets their nutritional requirements. Regular grooming, vaccination, and preventive care are essential in keeping your kitten healthy and free from diseases. This guide will give you all the information you need to raise a healthy kitten and ensure that it grows into a happy and healthy adult cat.
Check out the below table to understand how a cat develops with time:
Age | Milestone |
5 to 6 months old | Sexual maturity |
8 months old | Full set of adult teeth |
9 months old | Comparable digestion ability to adult |
12 months old (female) and 18 months old (male) | Reach adult body weight |
Between 10 to 12 months of age | Energy requirements go down to adult levels |
Want to know how old your cat is in human years? Check out the below table and find out:
| Life stage | Cat age | Cat age in human years |
|---|---|---|
| Kitten | 0 to 1 month old | 0 to 1 years old |
| 2 months old | 2 years old | |
| 3 months old | 4 years old | |
| 4 months old | 6 years old | |
| 5 months old | 8 years old | |
| 6 months old | 10 years old | |
| Junior | 7 months old | 12 years old |
| 12 months old | 15 years old | |
| 18 months old | 21 years old | |
| 2 years old | 24 years old | |
| Adult | 3 years old | 28 years old |
| 4 years old | 32 years old | |
| 5 years old | 36 years old | |
| 6 years old | 40 years old | |
| Mature | 7 years old | 44 years old |
| 8 years old | 48 years old | |
| 9 years old | 52 years old | |
| 10 years old | 56 years old | |
| Senior | 11 years old | 60 years old |
| 12 years old | 64 years old | |
| 13 years old | 68 years old | |
| 14 years old | 72 years old | |
| Super senior | 15 years old | 76 years old |
| 16 years old | 80 years old | |
| 17 years old | 84 years old | |
| 18 years old | 88 years old | |
| 19 years old | 92 years old | |
| 20 years old | 96 years old | |
| 21 years old | 100 years old | |
| 22 years old | 104 years old | |
| 23 years old | 108 years old | |
| 24 years old | 112 years old | |
| 25 years old | 116 years old |
In conclusion, raising a healthy kitten requires a lot of care and attention, but with the right knowledge and commitment, you can ensure that your kitten grows into a happy and healthy adult cat. Always consult your veterinarian for any questions or concerns, and don't hesitate to seek advice or guidance. With the right care and love, your kitten will bring you years of joy and companionship.
