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Kitten Development Stages: Week by Week Guide

Complete guide to kitten development from birth to one year: milestones, care tips, and health checkpoints.

Understanding your kitten's development helps you provide the best care at each stage. Here's what to expect during their first year. Week 1-2: Newborn - Eyes and ears closed - Rely entirely on mother - Sleep 90% of the time - Weight doubles Week 3-4: Eyes Open - Begin to see and hear - Start wobbling around - Baby teeth emerge - Begin litter box curiosity Week 5-6: Socialization Begins - Running and playing - Grooming themselves - Eating solid food - Social interactions crucial Week 7-8: Ready
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Kitten Development Stages: Week by Week Guide
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🏥Health2 min read

Kitten Development Stages: Week by Week Guide

Complete guide to kitten development from birth to one year: milestones, care tips, and health checkpoints.

January 27, 2026309 views

Understanding your kitten's development helps you provide the best care at each stage. Here's what to expect during their first year.

Week 1-2: Newborn

•Eyes and ears closed
•Rely entirely on mother
•Sleep 90% of the time
•Weight doubles

Week 3-4: Eyes Open

•Begin to see and hear
•Start wobbling around
•Baby teeth emerge
•Begin litter box curiosity

Week 5-6: Socialization Begins

•Running and playing
•Grooming themselves
•Eating solid food
•Social interactions crucial

Week 7-8: Ready for Adoption

•Fully weaned
•Using litter box
•Playing with siblings
•Vaccinations begin

Month 3-6: Adolescence

•Rapid growth
•High energy levels
•Learning boundaries
•Spay/neuter timing

Month 6-12: Young Adult

•Sexual maturity
•Adult teeth complete
•Personality develops
•Transition to adult food

Key Milestones:

•2 weeks: Eyes open
•4 weeks: Walking
•8 weeks: Weaning complete
•12 weeks: Coordination good
•6 months: Spay/neuter
•12 months: Adulthood

Health Checkpoints:

•First vet visit: 6-8 weeks
•Vaccinations: 8, 12, 16 weeks
•Deworming: Every 2 weeks until 12 weeks

Provide plenty of play, socialization, and love during these crucial months.

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