Kitten Eye Color and Coat Changes: What Is Normal as Kittens Grow

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 20, 20264 min read

Few things change more than a kitten's looks. The blue-eyed newborn grows into a green-eyed or gold-eyed adult, and a fluffy gray ball may turn into a sleek charcoal cat. Knowing what is normal helps you enjoy the changes, and spot real problems.

When eyes open

Kittens are born with their eyes sealed. They open between about seven and ten days, sometimes up to two weeks. They appear blue-gray and cloudy at first, and vision is blurry. Do not force the eyes open. If the eyes remain stuck, swollen or bulging, or if there is pus, call a vet at once, since infection can damage the eye. See cat eye problems.

Why they start blue

Newborn kittens have not yet developed pigment in the iris. Blue is the color seen when there is little pigment, the same way sky looks blue, through light scattering. As pigment cells, called melanocytes, mature, the true color appears.

Timeline of change

• 1 to 2 weeks: eyes open, blue-gray.
• 4 to 6 weeks: hints of green, gold or hazel appear around the pupil.
• 8 to 12 weeks: color is mostly established, though it may keep deepening.
• 3 to 4 months: adult color usually settled.
• Some breeds, such as Siamese, Ragdoll and Birman, keep blue eyes for life. See siamese and ragdoll.

If your kitten's eyes are still blue after about four months, they may stay blue, particularly in pointed and white cats.

Odd-eyed cats

Some cats have two different colored eyes, called heterochromia. This is often seen in white cats, and is usually harmless, though white cats with blue eyes have a higher risk of deafness. See white cats and deafness and caring for a deaf cat.

Coat changes

Kittens' coats can change as they grow.

• Kitten fluff. Soft, downy fur is replaced by adult coat at about four to six months. Texture and length can change.
• Color shifts. Some coats darken, lighten or develop new patterns. Tabby markings may become clearer. Black kittens can show rusty tones in the sun and as they shed.
• Pointed breeds. Siamese and similar kittens are born pale, and points darken over months and with temperature.
• Smoke and silver. Colors may become more distinct.
• Seasonal shedding.

See how to tell a kitten's age.

Coat health

A healthy coat is soft, glossy and clean. Dull, greasy or flaky fur suggests problems with diet, parasites or illness. Ensure good nutrition. See best food for kittens. Check for fleas. See kitten flea treatment.

Warning signs: eyes

See a vet if you notice:

• Cloudy eyes.
• Red, swollen or bulging eyes.
• Colored or heavy discharge, crusting or eyelids stuck together.
• Squinting, pawing or keeping an eye closed.
• Third eyelid showing. See third eyelid showing in cats.
• Different pupil sizes.
• Sneezing with discharge. See kitten sneezing and eye discharge.

Warning signs: coat and skin

• Patchy hair loss. See kitten ringworm.
• Scabs, redness or scaling.
• Constant scratching.
• Dandruff, or greasy fur.
• Sudden change in coat quality.

Cleaning eyes

Wipe small amounts of clear discharge with a damp cotton ball. Use a separate piece for each eye. See how to clean a cat's face and tear stains.

Do not worry about

Slight differences in eye color between kittens in a litter, gradual coat changes and mild shedding.

Photographing change

Take photos monthly. The changes are fascinating, and you will treasure the record.

Breed and genetics

Eye color depends on genes. Gold and copper are common in domestic cats, green in many tabbies and some breeds, and blue in pointed breeds. Coat color genes also interact: dilute colors, such as gray and cream, appear softer, and some colors fade or sun-bleach slightly. If you want to know what your kitten's adult coat will be like, look at the parents and ask the breeder or shelter.

Seasons and shedding

Kittens shed their baby coat in several months, then shed adult coat seasonally. Brushing helps, and reduces hairballs. See how to brush a cat. Keep an eye on the skin beneath, which should be pink or pigmented, smooth and clean.

Frequently asked questions

Will my kitten's eyes stay blue? Only if the breed or color genes say so, such as pointed or white cats. Why is one eye slightly different? Small differences are common, but a sudden change in a single eye needs a vet. Do all kittens shed baby fur? Yes, usually between four and six months. Can diet affect coat color? Poor nutrition affects shine and texture, and a few colors fade with sun, but diet does not change genetic color. Good food and grooming keep the coat at its best.

When to see a vet

See a vet for eye or skin problems. Use the US vet directory to find a clinic.