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How long can a newly born kitten open its eyes?

Newly born kittens usually start opening their eyes between 8 and 15 days. The timing varies depending on individual differences and living conditions. Some kittens may open their eyes earlier, around day 8, and by day 14, they may open them completely. Others may open their eyes later, around day 12. If a kitten's eyes have not opened by day 14, it is recommended that the owner take the kitten to the pet hospital as soon as possible to check if there is any eye disease.

Points to note when kittens open their eyes:

  1. Avoid direct sunlight on the kitten's eyes

Kittens cannot see light when they first open their eyes. At this stage, their eyes are still fragile and their vision is blurry. Direct sunlight can easily damage their undeveloped eyes. Therefore, it is best to place the kitten in a place with gentle lighting to avoid stimulating its eyes.

  1. Do not force the kitten's eyes open

During the period when the kitten opens its eyes, the owner must not forcefully pry open the kitten's eyes with their hands. This can easily cause inflammation and damage to the kitten's eyes, leading to vision loss or even blindness.

  1. Cleanliness

When the kitten opens its eyes, there may be a small amount of secretions around the eyes. The owner can use a cotton swab dipped in physiological saline to help the kitten wipe and clean its eyes. If the kitten still hasn't opened its eyes after 20 days, it's necessary to take it to the hospital for inspection and help it open its eyes.

  1. Pay attention to observation

If the kitten has no signs of opening its eyes by day 14, the owner needs to observe whether there is any redness or secretions around the eyes. This may be due to internal heat or eye infections that cause increased secretions, which stick to the upper and lower eyelids, preventing the eyes from opening.的建议使用湿毛巾轻轻擦拭眼睛。如果仍然不能睁眼,建议到医院检查治疗,必要时由医生帮助猫咪睁眼即可。