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My 12-day-old kitten's eye is only partially open, what should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female

Hello, my cat made birth to a few newborns one of them concerns me a bit. He/She is about 12 days old and all of the kittens opened their eyes, except that one kitten, he/she only opened his/her left eye but the right eye is only about 35% open. It looks like he/she perhaps hit something? I appreciate the help.

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1 Answer

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Answered By Rebecca, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 27th, 2017

Do not force the eyelid open. You can use a warm damp cloth over the eye in case there is a bit of discharge crusting the lid partially closed. It will likely open on its own in a few more days. If not fully open by 3 weeks a veterinary check up may be a good idea. Good luck with Bella and all the kittens.

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