You've found a litter of orphaned kittens and want to determine their age to provide the best care. Assessing their characteristics can help you estimate how old they might be.
- Check if their eyes are open or closed
- Observe their mobility and ability to walk
- Look for the presence of baby teeth
At approximately two weeks old, kittens start to open their eyes, and their ears begin to unfold. They are still reliant on their mother’s warmth and are not quite able to regulate their body temperature. At this stage, they would also still be in the process of learning to crawl.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- How can I tell if their eyes are open because they're old enough or due to a health issue?
If the kittens are less than two weeks old, their eyes should naturally still be closed. Eyes that are forced open due to infection or irritation may have discharge or redness. If in doubt, consult a veterinarian.
- What should I feed orphaned kittens?
Orphaned kittens require kitten milk replacement formula. Cow's milk is not suitable for their dietary needs and can upset their stomachs.
- At what age do kittens start walking?
Kittens usually begin to stand and explore between two to three weeks of age, although wobbly and unsteady at first. By four weeks, their coordination will improve significantly.
