Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My 20-day-old kitten has one eye still shut. Should I be concerned?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Should I be worried if my kitten cant open one eye at 20 days old

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

Veterinary Technician

Published on July 31st, 2015

Kittens will naturally open their eyes at around 7-10 days of age. If your kitten has an eye that is still shut, or appears to be blocked by debris or discharge, it is best to schedule a veterinary appointment as this may indicate a congenital issue or infection causing the problem.

Vote icon

47Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

    Veterinarian

    Published on April 27th, 2019

    Thank you for reposting. Most kittens will open their eyes by 10 days of age but some may be as long as two weeks. Check the eyes very closely for any signs of discharge or crusting. If this is seen, have him examined by the veterinarian quickly. It is possible that this kitten is a slow developer. It is also possible that there is some sort of abnormality. If the eyes do not open by 16 days of age, have the kitten examined by the veterinarian. Hopefully it’s nothing serious! Please feel free to post any additional questions.

    Vote icon

    1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 19th, 2018

    It can take up to three weeks for a kitten's eyes to open, so I wouldn't be too worried just yet. If that kitten doesn't open its eyes by 21 days of age, then I would take it into the vet to get examined. Best of luck.

    Vote icon

    2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

  • Image profile

    Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on September 28th, 2017

    You should ideally wait at least 4-5 days more before considering it abnormal and have it checked by your local veterinarian. Common problems in these cases are due to viral infections or congenital abnormalities (a defect they are born with). Please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

    Vote icon

    3Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Can I use human contact lens solution as eye drops for my mouse?
Can you use contact lens saline for your mouse's eye drops? A certified vet discusses ingredients like boric acid and potassium chloride. Find safe solutions for your pet!
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My dwarf hamster has a shut eye and is limping. What should I do?
Is your dwarf hamster struggling with eye issues or limping? A trusted vet offers expert guidance on symptoms and crucial next steps for comfort and care.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My guinea pig has a growing lump on its neck. Can it heal itself?
Guinea pig has a growing, hard neck lump? Worried about vet costs? A certified veterinarian advises on crucial steps for diagnosis and your pet's well-being.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet's eye looks strange but doesn't seem to hurt. What's wrong?
Is your pet's eye issue painless? A DVM explains potential corneal trauma or scratch. Immediate vet care is crucial to save their eye. Get expert advice now!
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My robo hamster is limp, bleeding, and collapsed. Is it wet tail?
Is your robo hamster dragging, collapsed, or showing blood? A Licensed Vet Tech offers urgent advice on these symptoms, including potential wet tail concerns.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored