Calling all cat people

[William]

When are kittens supposed to open their eyes?

I am asking because my kitten opened its eyes today and it is only 5 days old. Seems a bit early to me. I thought it usually happen between 8 and 14 days of age. Am I wrong or is this kitten just a bit early? It has been growing very quickly and more or less doubled its size.

[lobsternoob]

How long till kittens open their eyes actually depends on the length of their fur. The long haired cats will open their eyes on a much later schedule than a short haired cat. There is no scientific research to verify why this may be, but it appears to run true throughout every breed. Short haired kittens will often peep out at the world for the first time between 5 to 8 days after birth.

taken from [Only Registered Users Can See Links.]

It seems you may just have an early bloomer on your hands, doesn't seem like anything to worry about.

[William]

I am not worried. Just currious.

I know that short haired breeds take longer but I though a week + was normal for all breeds.

[lowlight]

I have heard 1-2 weeks after they are born and fur length does not matter. My info comes first hand from someone that works with dogs and cats for a living. Yea it could be you just have an early bloomer. Sometimes you get a cat that doesn't have normal cat behavior like enjoying a spin in the office chair. Sounds like you might have one of those cats that have a unique personality.

[Gil klogher]

just make sure that you dont turn on any real bright ligfhts near them. they are still very sensitive even though they have opend their eyes, and they still need their mothers milk.

[William]

It will be allowed to stay with the mother and drink her milk as long as the mom wants it. As for lighting. There is just the ceiling light and it will just have to coupe with that ;-)

Lowlight: No cat in nicaragua ever acts as a "should" Just look at the fact that the mother gave birth to the kitten snuggled into my GFs armpit.

[Gil klogher]

Sweet, bro. my cat gave birht in the litter box and i had to suck clumping cat litter out their nostrils. then the mother burried them because it was her first litter and she aint knew no better. they all lived like hell, but they were cool. I tried my bestest, but she was a damned bad momma. she even bit them when they tried to nurse!!! best of luck to you pal. SALUD A SUS GATITOS MI AMIGO!