Newborn cats usually start to open their eyes around 8-15 days old. Depending on individual differences and feeding conditions, the time it takes for cats to open their eyes will also be different. Some cats will open their eyes earlier, opening a crack at about eight days, and fully opening them at 14 days. Cats will open their eyes later, probably around 12 days before they begin to open their eyes slowly. If the cat’s eyes have not opened for more than 14 days, it is recommended that the owner take the cat to the pet hospital for examination as soon as possible to see if the cat has eye diseases.
Things to note when a kitten opens its eyes
1. Do not let the sun shine directly into the cat’s eyes
The kitten cannot see light when it first opens its eyes. . Because the cat's eyes are still very fragile at this time, and the vision is also very blurry. If the sunlight is allowed to shine directly into the cat's eyes, it will easily cause damage to the immature eyes. Therefore, it is best to place the cat in a place where the light is not particularly strong to avoid irritating the cat.
2. Do not use your hands to open the cat’s eyes.
During the period when the cat opens its eyes, the owner must not directly open the cat’s eyes with his hands. , otherwise it will easily cause inflammation and damage to the cat's eyes, leading to vision loss, and in severe cases, even blindness.
3. Pay attention to cleanliness
When the cat opens its eyes, there will be a small amount of secretions in the eyes. The owner needs to moisten a cotton swab with saline to help the kitten wipe and clean it. If the kitten has not opened its eyes for more than 20 days, you need to take it to the hospital immediately for examination and help the kitten open its eyes.
4. Pay attention to observation
If the cat has no signs of opening its eyes for more than 14 days, you need to observe whether the kitten’s eyes are red, swollen and have secretions. It may be due to inflammation or It is an eye infection that causes an increase in secretions. The upper and lower eyelids are stuck together, preventing the eyes from opening. It is recommended to gently wipe the eyes with a towel dipped in warm water. If the eyes still cannot be opened, it is recommended to go to the hospital for examination and treatment. If necessary, the doctor can help the cat open its eyes. That’s it.
