Newborn kittens emerge completely helpless! They can’t see, they can’t hear, and they certainly can’t walk. They wiggle and scooch, navigating by sense of smell and toward or away from a heat source. This, combined with help from their mother cat, helps them to get their needs met: warmth, milk, and help toileting. So when do kittens start walking?
When do kittens learn to walk?
Kittens typically start walking around 3 weeks old. They begin taking their first shaking steps between 2 and 3 weeks of age. By 3 weeks old, their eyes and ears are open, and they can see and hear.
Kittens are typically toddling around comfortably between 3 and 4 weeks old. By 4 weeks old, kittens are usually much stronger and more comfortable on their feet. They will start pouncing, hopping, and playing more confidently between 4 and 5 weeks old.
Can 3 week old kittens walk?
Yes. At 3 weeks, most kittens will be walking. They will be somewhat steady on their feet, but not completely coordinated.
Kittens walking at 4 weeks old
By 4 weeks old, kittens are bouncing confidently. They will begin playing, climbing and exploring their surroundings more thoroughly. This is a great age to introduce a wider range of developmentally appropriate kitten toys.
Kittens walking to the litter box
At 3 weeks old, kittens will be able to start using a very shallow litter box. By 4 weeks, they will be more confident about making it to a litter box consistently if it is nearby. By 5 and 6 weeks, they will be able to navigate a larger space and still make it back to the litter box.
