Kitten Milestones
Kittens grow fast. This timeline shows the main milestones in their first year, with rough ages. Every kitten is different, so ask your vet what is right for yours.
The text version
- Newborn: Birth
- Born blind and deaf, and spends most of the day feeding and sleeping.
- 7 to 10 days: Eyes open
- The eyes begin to open, and are blue at first.
- 2 to 4 weeks: First steps
- Starts to walk, play and groom, and the first baby teeth appear.
- 4 to 8 weeks: Weaning
- Begins to eat solid food and use a litter tray, and learns from mum and siblings.
- 8 to 9 weeks: First vaccinations
- The first jabs, and often the age a kitten can go to a new home.
- About 4 months: Neutering
- Many vets suggest neutering from around now. Adult teeth start to come through.
- 6 to 12 months: Nearly grown
- Adult teeth are in, and a teenager’s energy is at full tilt.
Questions people ask
When do kittens open their eyes?
Usually between 7 and 10 days old. Their eyes are blue at first and change colour over the following weeks.
When can kittens go to a new home?
Often from around 8 to 9 weeks, once they are eating solid food and have had their first vaccinations, though some breeders wait longer.
When should a kitten be neutered?
Many vets suggest from around four months, but ask your vet what is best for your kitten.
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