To tell a kitten's age, you can use several physical and behavioral signs that change as kittens grow:

Key Indicators to Estimate Kitten Age

Eyes and Ears:

• Newborn to 1 week: Eyes closed, ears folded down, kittens cannot walk yet. Umbilical cord may still be visible

• 1-2 weeks: Eyes begin to open (blue eyes), ears start to unfold, kittens start crawling and kneading

• 3 weeks: Eyes and ears fully open, kittens begin to stand and take wobbly steps, baby teeth start coming in

• Around 6-7 weeks: Eyes start changing from baby blue to adult colors (green, yellow, or hazel)

Teeth Development:

• 2 weeks: Front teeth (canines and incisors) start to appear

• 4 weeks: Canine teeth emerge; baby teeth are more developed

• 5-6 weeks: Premolars begin to come through; kittens can eat solid food

• 4-6 months: Adult teeth replace baby teeth

Weight and Size:

• Newborn: About 3 to 8 ounces (85 to 225 grams)

• 1 week: Around 8 ounces (225 grams)

• 4 weeks: Approximately 400 grams (about 8.5 inches long)

• 8 weeks: Around 2 pounds (900 grams to 1 kg)

Behavior and Mobility:

• Under 1 week: Unable to walk, only crawl and purr

• 3 weeks: Walking begins, responding to sounds and movement

• 5 weeks: Able to run, jump, pounce, and stalk; litter box training starts

• 7-8 weeks: Fully litter box trained, playful, and showing personality

Coat and Claws:

• Under 4-6 months: Fluffy, soft coat

• Claws start retracting around 4 weeks, fully retractable by 8 weeks

Summary Table of Age Signs

Age Range| Eyes| Teeth| Mobility & Behavior| Weight (approx.)
---|---|---|---|---
0-1 week| Closed| None| Cannot walk, ears folded| 3-8 oz (85-225 g)
1-2 weeks| Opening (blue)| Front teeth starting| Crawling, kneading| ~8 oz (225 g)
3 weeks| Fully open (blue)| Baby teeth coming in| Standing, wobbly walking| 7.5-14.5 oz (210-410 g)
4-5 weeks| Eyes blue, starting to change| Canines present| Running, jumping, litter box training| ~400-500 g
6-7 weeks| Eye color changing| Premolars emerging| Eating solid food, playful| ~600-900 g
8 weeks+| Adult eye color visible| Full baby teeth| Fully litter trained, social behaviors| ~2 lbs (900 g+)

These indicators can help you estimate a kitten’s age accurately. For precise care, especially for very young or orphaned kittens, consulting a veterinarian is recommended