Kittens 0 – 2 weeks old

Newborn kittens aged between 0-2 weeks will have their eyes closed and their ears folded. They will have no teeth and their gums, nose, and paws may appear bright pink in colour. The umbilical cord normally falls off on its own at around  4 to 5 days of age so at 1 and 2 weeks old they will have no umbilical cord. Their claws will be non-retractable.

Kittens this age belong with their mother full time. Please DO NOT remove the kittens. Their mother will be close by keeping an eye on them. If you do not see a mother present please call the DSPCA on (01) 499 4700 select option 3 or email info@dspca.ie

Should I handle kittens at this age?

The simple answer is no. Leave the kittens alone during this stage.