How do you determin the age of an abandoned kitten?

Here's a guide to help you estimate the age of an abandoned kitten:

1. Size and Weight:

- Newborn kittens are tiny and weigh around 2-4 ounces (56-113 grams).

- They grow quickly and gain weight within the first few weeks.

2. Eyes:

- Newborn kittens are born with their eyes closed.

- Their eyes start to open around 7-10 days of age.

- By 14 days, their eyes should be fully open and blue or grayish in color.

- The eye color may change to the permanent color between 6 weeks to 6 months.

3. Ears:

- Newborn kittens' ears are folded and sealed shut.

- They start to unfold and become erect between 7-14 days of age.

4. Teeth:

- Deciduous (baby) teeth start to appear around 2-4 weeks of age, beginning with the incisors (front teeth).

- By 6-8 weeks, most of the deciduous teeth should be visible.

5. Mobility:

- Newborn kittens are immobile and crawl by dragging themselves.

- Around 3 weeks, they start to wobble on their feet.

- By 4 weeks, they can walk and run clumsily.

6. Weaning:

- Kittens typically start weaning from their mother's milk between 3-4 weeks of age.

- They become fully weaned and able to eat solid food by 8-10 weeks.

7. Litter Box Training:

- Kittens start to show interest in using the litter box around 3-4 weeks of age.

- With proper training, they usually become litter box proficient by 6-8 weeks.

Approximate Age:

- Birth to 1 week: Eyes closed, ears folded, immobile.

- 1-2 weeks: Eyes opening, ears unfolding, crawling.

- 2-3 weeks: Deciduous teeth appearing, wobbly walking, starting to play.

- 3-4 weeks: More active, weaning begins, using the litter box.

- 4-6 weeks: Walking, running, playing vigorously, most deciduous teeth visible.

- 6-8 weeks: Fully weaned, litter box trained, permanent teeth starting to appear.

Remember, these are general guidelines, and individual kittens may vary in their development. If you're unsure of a kitten's age, it's best to consult with a veterinarian or animal shelter for a more accurate assessment.