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Is it okay to pick up or handle kittens just a few days old?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | unspayed | 6 days old | 1lb

Can you pick up a kitten if they were born a couple days ago?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on March 19th, 2020

Hello. Is this a litter from your cat? If this is your cat, see how comfortable she is with you being around the kittens. Then if she allows you to pet the kittens she should be fine allowing you to pick them up. Follow her reactions & if she is OK then go ahead & get to know the kittens. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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    Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    You can but it is not advised. It is best to just leave them alone with their mother. You picking them up causes stress to the baby and the mother. I don't suggest you touch it unless there is a problem.

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