How do you know the age of cats?
Introduction
Cats are among the most popular pets worldwide due to their cleanliness, playful nature, and strong bond with humans. Although cats are kept in households all around the world and exist in hundreds of breeds, they all belong to one species: the domestic cat (Felis catus). Determining a cat’s exact age is not always easy, but there are reliable indicators such as teeth, claws, fur, and behavior that help estimate it.
Cat Information
Definition of Cats
Cats, also called kittens, are domesticated mammals that belong to the Felidae family. They are characterized by their sharp senses of smell, sight, and hearing, as well as their unique ability to see in the dark thanks to a reflective layer behind their eyes.
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Weight: 2–4 kg on average.
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Body: Covered with fur, flexible, and capable of jumping and climbing.
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Sound: Known for their "meow."
Cats are carnivores and primarily hunt birds, rodents, and fish, though they also consume meat provided by humans.
How to Know Your Cat’s Age
Since there is no exact way to determine a cat’s age, experts rely on several physical and behavioral indicators.
1. Cat Teeth
Teeth are the most reliable indicator of age.
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Weeks:
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1st week: no teeth.
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2–4 weeks: baby incisors appear.
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3–4 weeks: baby canines appear.
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4–6 weeks: baby molars appear.
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8 weeks: full set of baby teeth.
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Months:
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3–4 months: permanent incisors appear.
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4–5 months: canines, premolars, molars replace baby teeth.
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5–7 months: full set of permanent teeth.
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Years:
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1–2 years: slight yellowing of molars.
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3–5 years: tartar and wear begin.
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5–10 years: teeth show erosion, discoloration, and possible gum issues.
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10–15 years: heavy wear, missing teeth, gum darkening.
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2. Cat Claws
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Younger cats: sharp, smooth, and easy to retract.
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Older cats: claws become rough, longer, and sometimes brittle; some cats lose the ability to fully retract them.
Younger cats: sharp, smooth, and easy to retract.
Older cats: claws become rough, longer, and sometimes brittle; some cats lose the ability to fully retract them.
3. Cat Fur
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Kittens (under 9 months): soft, fluffy, light in color.
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Adults (9 months–10 years): shiny, oily, and strong.
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Seniors (10+ years): gray hair appears, fur becomes dull, cats may groom themselves less, causing mats and knots.
Kittens (under 9 months): soft, fluffy, light in color.
Adults (9 months–10 years): shiny, oily, and strong.
Seniors (10+ years): gray hair appears, fur becomes dull, cats may groom themselves less, causing mats and knots.
4. Cat Activity
Activity level is another important clue:
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Young cats: energetic, playful, and curious.
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Adults: balanced activity, hunting instincts strong, defend territory.
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Older cats: reduced activity, more sleep, less appetite, slower movements.
Conclusion
Determining a cat’s age requires observation of multiple factors, including teeth, claws, fur, and behavior. While no method provides an exact answer, combining these indicators gives a close estimate. Knowing your cat’s age is important for tailoring proper care, ensuring the right diet, and monitoring health as they grow.