Cat Whelp Development
At birth: In its first day of life, kittens are deaf, blind and have a plump and vigorous appearance. They are all covered by hair and its average weight is 15 to 100 grams. Those who weight less than 90 grams have little changes of surviving.
First week: During this period, kittens can weigh up to 150 grams increase their weight at a rate of 10 grams per day. Their size is about 15 cms. and their eyes and fallen ears are still closed. These new born cats sleep a lot and suckle constantly from its preferred nipple.
Second week: During this week, kittens have doubled its weight since birth, but their small legs are still very weak to keep them standing. They start to open their eyes and straighten their ears and they meow loudly when they feel abandoned by their mother.
Third week: During the week, kitten continue growing and gaining about 4 times its birth weight. They begin to try out their first steps, but cannot stand up right for much time. By the end of this stage, kittens will start being fed with solid foods.
Fourth week: Throughout this week, kittens will start to move frequently, they will stumble clumsily, and they play with each other. They will also try to escape from the nest, but still must be fed with good quality commercial kitten food 3 or 4 times a day.
Sixth week: Now, kittens leave the nest frequently. They will start jumping and clean themselves. They become very jealous with the toys they play with and must receive their first medicine dose.
Eight week: At this point kittens are capable of landing on their four feet and now the mother is confident enough to leave them for long periods of time. It is also time for them to receive their second medicine dose.
Twelfth week: Mother's absolutely refuse to be suckled by its whelps, consequently, kittens are forced to begin feeding themselves. This is considered the most adequate time for them to be sold. Third dose must be given.
Cat Weaning: The weaning is interpreted as the definite separation of the whelps from their mother. Remember that it is not advisable to do it before being sold since they will start a new live with their new owners.
