When Do Kittens Open Their Eyes?

Few things are as exciting as watching a newborn kitten grow and develop. In their earliest days, kittens rely entirely on their sense of smell and touch to navigate their world, as their eyes remain closed. But when do kittens open their eyes, and what does this milestone mean for their development? Whether you’re caring for a litter of kittens or simply curious about their early growth stages, understanding when and how their vision emerges is essential. In this blog, we’ll cover when kittens typically open their eyes, what to expect as they begin to see the world, and when to seek veterinary attention for any concerns. If you have questions about your kitten’s health or development, the team at Lane Veterinary in Hinsdale, IL, is happy to offer guidance—call us at (630) 320-6644 or book an appointment online today!

How Long Before Kittens Open Their Eyes?

Newborn kittens typically open their eyes between 7 and 14 days old. However, the exact timing can vary depending on the kitten’s genetics, breed, and environment. Unlike many other animals, kittens are born in an altricial state, meaning they are undeveloped and require extensive care from their mother or caregiver.

During the first week of life, kittens remain mostly blind and deaf, relying on their sense of smell and touch to find their mother and nurse. Their eyelids stay fused shut to protect their developing eyes. By the end of the second week, most kittens will start to crack their eyes open slightly, and over the next few days, their vision will gradually improve.

Why Are Kittens Born With Their Eyes Closed?

The reason kittens are born with closed eyes is due to their underdeveloped nervous and sensory systems. Unlike humans, who are born with fully formed eyes, kittens undergo much of their eye development after birth. This is a natural adaptation that allows them to be born safely, as their small size and immaturity make the birthing process easier for their mother. Additionally, newborn kittens have extremely sensitive retinas that are not yet ready to process light. If their eyes were open at birth, they would be exposed to brightness that could damage their developing vision. The gradual opening process allows their eyes to adjust slowly and safely to the world around them.

What to Expect When Kittens Begin Opening Their Eyes

Once a kitten begins to open its eyes, the process happens gradually over several days. Here’s what you can expect:

• Day 7-10: The corners of the eyes start to crack open. Some kittens may open one eye slightly before the other.
• Day 10-14: The eyes open wider, revealing a cloudy blue hue. Their vision remains blurry at this stage.
• Week 3: Kittens can see more clearly and start to respond to movement and light.
• Week 4-5: Their eyesight becomes sharper, and they begin exploring their surroundings with more confidence.

What Color Are Kittens’ Eyes When They First Open?

All kittens start with blue eyes. This is because the pigment in their irises has not fully developed yet. As they grow, their eye color may change, depending on their genetics. Around weeks three through six, the blue eye color remains but may start to darken slightly. As the weeks go on, your kitten’s final eye color starts emerging, often green, yellow, orange, or brown, depending on the breed. By around eight weeks of age, the permanent eye color is established, though some subtle changes can continue into adulthood. If a kitten’s eyes remain blue after 12 weeks, they will likely keep their blue eye color permanently, which is common in breeds like Siamese and Ragdolls.

When to Be Concerned About a Kitten’s Eyes

While it’s natural for kittens to open their eyes gradually, there are a few signs that could indicate a problem:

• Swollen or crusty eyelids – This could indicate an infection like conjunctivitis.
• Excessive tearing or discharge – Clear or yellow discharge may signal irritation or illness.
• Persistent eye closure beyond two weeks – If a kitten hasn’t opened its eyes by day 16, a vet check may be needed.
• Red or inflamed eyes – This could be a sign of an eye infection or an underlying health issue.

If you notice any of these symptoms, contact Lane Veterinary in Hinsdale, IL, at (630) 320-6644 for professional veterinary advice and care.

How to Support Kittens During This Critical Developmental Stage

As kittens begin to open their eyes, they are entering a crucial period of sensory development. To help them grow strong and healthy, follow these care tips:

• Keep kittens in a quiet, dimly lit area to prevent light sensitivity.
• If you need to interact with the kittens, do so with care and avoid touching their eyes.
• Check daily for signs of infection or abnormal development.
• If the kittens are with their mother, she will naturally encourage their growth and provide essential care.

Once kittens have opened their eyes, their socialization and mobility rapidly improve. They will start responding to sights and sounds, recognizing their caregivers, and attempting to walk more confidently. By four weeks old, they will be highly active, playful, and ready to explore their world. If you have any concerns about your kitten’s eye development or overall health, the team at Lane Veterinary in Hinsdale, IL, is here to help! Call (630) 320-6644 or book an appointment online today to ensure your kitten receives the best care possible.