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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

5 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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.

47Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

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.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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.
3Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Amy S. Eutsey, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on July 10th, 2017
Your kitten may have an eye infection. It would be best to have her seen by your vet as soon as possible for an exam. Eye problems should be addressed within the first 24 hours to make sure the problem does not get worse.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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