Kitten Growth & Development
Kitten Growth Chart: From Newborn to Adulthood
Track your kitten's growth with weekly weight milestones, learn about developmental stages, temperature requirements, and when kittens reach full size.
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Kitten Growth Milestones
Weekly weight expectations and developmental stages from birth to adulthood
| Age | Weight Range | Developmental Stage |
|---|---|---|
| 2 weeks | 0.25-0.5 lbs | Eyes open, beginning to crawl |
| 4 weeks | 0.5-1 lbs | Starting to walk, beginning to play |
| 6 weeks | 1-1.5 lbs | Weaning begins, very playful |
| 8 weeks | 1.5-2 lbs | Fully weaned, ready for adoption |
| 12 weeks | 2-3 lbs | Rapid growth phase |
| 16 weeks | 3-4 lbs | Teenage phase, high energy |
| 20 weeks | 4-5 lbs | Approaching adult size |
| 24 weeks | 5-6 lbs | Nearly full grown |
| 52 weeks | Adult weight | Fully grown adult cat |
Newborn Kitten Weight & Care
Critical first weeks of life
Birth Weight
Newborn kittens typically weigh 3-4 ounces (85-115 grams) at birth, with a healthy range of 2.5-5 ounces (70-140 grams). Healthy kittens should double their birth weight in the first week. If a kitten is not gaining weight or weighs less than 2.5 ounces at birth, consult your veterinarian immediately.
First Week Growth
During the first week, kittens should gain approximately 0.25-0.5 ounces (7-14 grams) per day. By 1 week old, kittens typically weigh 4-8 ounces. If a kitten is not gaining weight or is losing weight, this may indicate health issues, feeding problems, or the need for supplemental feeding.
Temperature Requirements
Newborn kittens (0-2 weeks) cannot regulate their body temperature and need an ambient temperature of 85-90°F (29-32°C). Use heating pads set on low, warm blankets, or a heat lamp to maintain proper temperature. By 2-4 weeks, they need 80-85°F (27-29°C), and after 4 weeks, room temperature (70-75°F) is acceptable.
When to Be Concerned
Consult your veterinarian immediately if: your kitten is not gaining weight, losing weight, crying excessively, not nursing, or appears weak or lethargic. Early intervention is crucial for newborn kitten health. Keep a weight log to track growth and share with your veterinarian.
Kitten Growth Phases
Understanding developmental stages
Early Growth (2-8 weeks)
Kittens grow rapidly during this phase, gaining weight steadily each week. By 8 weeks, kittens typically weigh 1.5-2 pounds and are fully weaned. This is when kittens are typically ready for adoption. During this phase, kittens learn to walk, play, and explore their environment.
Rapid Growth (8-16 weeks)
This is the most rapid growth phase. Kittens gain approximately 0.5-1 pound per month during this period. By 16 weeks (4 months), kittens typically weigh 3-4 pounds and are in their "teenage" phase with high energy levels. Proper nutrition is crucial during this phase.
Approaching Adulthood (16-24 weeks)
Growth begins to slow as kittens approach adult size. By 20 weeks (5 months), kittens typically weigh 4-5 pounds and are approaching adult size. By 24 weeks (6 months), most kittens weigh 5-6 pounds and are nearly full grown, reaching about 75% of their adult weight.
Reaching Full Size (24-52 weeks)
Most kittens reach their full adult size by 52 weeks (12 months). However, large breed cats like Maine Coons may continue growing until 18-24 months. During this final growth phase, kittens gain the remaining 25% of their adult weight and develop adult muscle mass.
Kitten Temperature Requirements
Proper temperature management is crucial for newborn kitten survival
Newborn Kittens (0-2 weeks)
Temperature: 85-90°F (29-32°C) ambient temperature required. Newborn kittens cannot regulate their body temperature and rely on their mother and environment for warmth. Use heating pads set on low, warm blankets, or a heat lamp to maintain proper temperature.
2-4 Weeks Old
Temperature: 80-85°F (27-29°C) ambient temperature. Kittens begin to develop some ability to regulate temperature but still need supplemental heat. Gradually reduce heating as they age.
4+ Weeks Old
Temperature: Room temperature (70-75°F / 21-24°C) is acceptable. Kittens can now regulate their body temperature effectively. Ensure they have warm bedding and shelter from drafts.
Important: Always monitor kittens for signs of hypothermia (cold to touch, lethargic, not nursing) or hyperthermia (panting, restlessness). If you suspect temperature-related issues, consult your veterinarian immediately.
Tracking Your Kitten's Growth
Tools and tips for monitoring healthy development
Weekly Weighing
Weigh your kitten weekly during their first few months using a kitchen scale or pet scale. Record weights in a log to track growth trends. Healthy kittens should gain weight steadily. If weight gain stalls or decreases, consult your veterinarian.
Using Growth Calculators
Our Kitten Weight Calculator compares your kitten's current weight to expected ranges for their age and predicts adult size. Our Kitten Growth Calculator shows future milestones based on current age and weight. Both tools help ensure your kitten is growing at a healthy rate.
Nutrition for Growth
Kittens need 2-3x more calories per pound than adult cats due to rapid growth. Use our Kitten Calorie Calculator to determine appropriate daily calorie intake. Feed high-quality kitten food formulated for growth, and ensure kittens eat 3-4 times per day until 6 months old.
When to Consult a Veterinarian
Consult your veterinarian if: your kitten is not gaining weight, losing weight, not eating, appears weak or lethargic, or is significantly outside expected weight ranges. Early intervention is crucial for kitten health. Bring your growth log to veterinary appointments.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kitten Growth
Common questions about kitten weight, growth milestones, and development
How much should a newborn kitten weigh?
Newborn kittens typically weigh 3-4 ounces (85-115 grams) at birth, with a range of 2.5-5 ounces (70-140 grams). Healthy kittens should double their birth weight in the first week. If a kitten is not gaining weight or is losing weight, consult your veterinarian immediately.
What is a healthy kitten weight by age?
Healthy kitten weights vary by age: 2 weeks (0.25-0.5 lbs), 4 weeks (0.5-1 lbs), 6 weeks (1-1.5 lbs), 8 weeks (1.5-2 lbs), 12 weeks (2-3 lbs), 16 weeks (3-4 lbs), 20 weeks (4-5 lbs), and 24 weeks (5-6 lbs). By 52 weeks (1 year), kittens reach their adult weight. Use our Kitten Weight Calculator to track your kitten's growth.
When do kittens reach full size?
Most kittens reach their full adult size by 12 months (52 weeks). However, large breed cats like Maine Coons may continue growing until 18-24 months. Kittens grow most rapidly in their first 6 months, reaching about 75% of adult size by 6 months. Use our Kitten Growth Calculator to track milestones.
What temperature should newborn kittens be kept at?
Newborn kittens (0-2 weeks) need an ambient temperature of 85-90°F (29-32°C) as they cannot regulate their body temperature. By 2-4 weeks, they need 80-85°F (27-29°C). After 4 weeks, room temperature (70-75°F / 21-24°C) is acceptable. Use heating pads or warm blankets to maintain proper temperature.
How often should I weigh my kitten?
Kittens should be weighed weekly during their first few months to monitor growth. Healthy kittens should gain weight steadily. If your kitten is losing weight or not gaining, consult your veterinarian immediately. Use our Kitten Weight Calculator to track growth and compare to expected ranges.
What if my kitten is underweight?
If your kitten is underweight, consult your veterinarian immediately. Underweight kittens may have health issues, parasites, or feeding problems that need to be addressed. Your vet can help create a plan for healthy weight gain. Use our Kitten Calorie Calculator to ensure adequate nutrition.
What if my kitten is overweight?
While kittens need adequate nutrition for growth, being overweight can lead to health problems. However, never restrict food without veterinary guidance, as kittens need proper nutrition for development. Consult your veterinarian if concerned about your kitten's weight. Use our Kitten Calorie Calculator to ensure appropriate calorie intake.
How can I track my kitten's growth?
Weigh your kitten weekly and compare to growth milestones. Use our Kitten Weight Calculator to track current weight against expected ranges and predict adult size. Our Kitten Growth Calculator shows future milestones based on current age and weight. Keep a growth log to share with your veterinarian.
Track Your Kitten's Growth
Use our free calculators to monitor your kitten's growth and ensure healthy development.