Start Planning Now

Pet Planner is a site that connects cat lovers and allows you to share your own experiences and learn about responsible pet ownership.

Let's get started!

What's your pet's name?

For a week-by-week guide to your pet's development (starting at birth), check out our Pet Calendar
Don't have a pet yet? There's still much to learn about Dogs and Cats!

Kitten Development Chart

What to expect from your new kitten and when to expect it 3-4 weeks

  • Kitten has mastered walking, but is still a little clumsy
  • Kittens begin to play with toys and paw at moveable objects
  • Optimal time for weaning process to commence
  • May begin litter-box training at 4 weeks

What to expect from your new kitten and when to expect it 6 weeks

  • During the first six weeks, four or more small feedings are recommended throughout the course of the day for your kitten

What to expect from your new kitten and when to expect it 8 weeks

  • Kitten no longer requires their mother's milk
  • By this time, kitten has developed razor-sharp milk teeth that begin to cause discomfort for the mother
  • Kitten has full control over paws and will learn much about his/her environment through object play

What to expect from your new kitten and when to expect it 8 - 12 weeks

  • A kitten's first visit to the vet should take place within the first few days after you've brought him/her home
  • Kittens will receive their first vaccinations during this visit
  • Increase the amount of food in each meal for your kitten and feed only three times daily

What to expect from your new kitten and when to expect it 1-2 months

  • Socialization is important to the social development of kittens, and is especially critical during this period
  • Kitten develops social relationships built on familiarity
  • You should play with your kitten at least 40 min/day to ensure he/she grows into being a relaxed and friendly cat

What to expect from your new kitten and when to expect it 2 - 2½ months

  • Complex motor abilities are fully developed
  • Milk teeth begin to loosen and are replaced by adult teeth

What to expect from your new kitten and when to expect it 4 months

  • Vaccinations will be effective and your kitten may begin to explore outdoors

What to expect from your new kitten and when to expect it 5 months

  • Kitten enters adolescent stage between five and six months
  • Transition period from kitten to a mature cat
  • Will be playful, but may be a bit too aggressive at times

What to expect from your new kitten and when to expect it 5 - 6 months

  • Females should be spayed between five to six months (preferably before her first heat)
  • Males should be neutered between 5 to 9 months, preferably before he starts spraying

What to expect from your new kitten and when to expect it 6 months

  • Cat is old enough to reproduce, if not spayed or neutered
  • At this age, his/her appearance will be much the same as her adult self, but will bulk up as he/she matures
  • You can begin to cut feedings down to twice daily

What to expect from your new kitten and when to expect it 12 months

  • Your kitten has successfully completed his/her first year of life and can now graduate to adulthood!!
  • At this time, your cat can start eating adult food
  • Remember to schedule annual checkups with your vet and more frequent visits in the event of any illness or injury

Selecting

Preparing

Care