Here’s a practical, Australia‑focused guide to chicken‑based foods safe and appropriate for kittens under 12 months, plus feeding and safety notes.

What to feed (short version)

• Feed a commercial “kitten” formula that is labelled complete & balanced for growth (do not use puppy/dog food). These formulas have the extra protein, fat, DHA and micronutrients kittens need until ~12 months. (kb.rspca.org.au)

Recommended types and example products available in Australia

• Dry kitten kibbles (good for grazing/teeth; leave a measured daily portion available): Purina Pro Plan Kitten (chicken), Hill’s Science Diet Kitten (chicken), Black Hawk Original Kitten (Chicken), Ivory Coat Kitten (Chicken), ADVANCE Kitten Chicken, Royal Canin Kitten / Mother & Babycat (for very young kittens). (All are formulated for growth/kitten life stage). (purina.com.au)
• Wet kitten food (helps hydration, often more palatable; feed in meals): Purina Pro Plan Kitten Chicken in Jelly, Hill’s Science Diet Kitten Tender Chunks in Gravy (chicken), Black Hawk Kitten Chicken pouches, Royal Canin kitten/mother & babycat wet options. Use wet food either exclusively or mixed with dry per package feeding guides. (purina.com.au)

Key feeding & safety points (most important)

• Life stage: Feed kitten‑labelled food until ~12 months (some vets/sources say transition at 10–12 months). Follow the brand’s feeding guide and adjust to body condition. (kb.rspca.org.au)
• Taurine and DHA: Kittens need adequate taurine (essential amino acid) and DHA for eye/heart/brain development — properly formulated kitten foods supply these. Do not rely on unbalanced homemade diets without veterinary oversight. (sydney.edu.au)
• Raw meat and bones: Raw meat/bones carry bacterial risks; RSPCA and Australian vet sources advise avoiding raw meat for young kittens (many recommend delaying raw until older and only if using human‑grade, balanced raw programs and under professional guidance). Never feed cooked bones (they can splinter). (kb.rspca.org.au)
• Check the label: Look for “complete & balanced for growth/kitten” and standards such as AAFCO/FEDIAF or Australian standard AS5812 (or equivalent) on packaging or product info. (kb.rspca.org.au)
• Meal frequency: Offer small meals multiple times/day (many sources advise 3–4 times daily for young kittens; dry food can be left for grazing depending on brand guidance). Always provide fresh water. (kb.rspca.org.au)
• Treats/leftovers: Cooked chicken pieces (no bones, no skin, no seasonings) can be offered occasionally as a treat, but not as the main diet. Avoid processed pet mince/rolls containing sulfite preservatives (linked to thiamine deficiency) — stick to balanced commercial kitten diets. (kb.rspca.org.au)

When to see a vet or nutritionist

• If your kitten is underweight/overweight, has digestive problems, food refusal, or you want a homemade/raw diet — consult your veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist before changing diets. Homemade/raw diets are difficult to balance for growth and can cause serious deficiencies (or infection risks) if done incorrectly. (sydney.edu.au)

If you want a quick shortlist by format

• Good dry chicken‑first kibbles: Purina Pro Plan Kitten Chicken, Hill’s Science Diet Kitten (Chicken), Black Hawk Original Kitten Chicken, Ivory Coat Kitten Chicken, ADVANCE Kitten Chicken, Royal Canin Kitten. (purina.com.au)
• Good wet chicken pouch/can options: Purina Pro Plan Kitten Chicken in Jelly; Hill’s Science Diet Kitten Tender Chunks (Chicken); Black Hawk Chicken in Gravy; Royal Canin kitten/mother & babycat wet. (purina.com.au)

Final practical tips

• Start with a high‑quality kitten formula and introduce changes slowly over 7–10 days to avoid upset tummies. (purina.com.au)
• Monitor body condition (not just weight) and keep vaccinations, worming and flea prevention up to date. (catprotection.org.au)

If you’d like, I can: (a) narrow the list to budget vs premium options available near your postcode in Australia, or (b) give a sample daily feeding plan for a specific kitten age/weight — I can do that next.