If you’re a cat parent, you may be curious about how old your fur baby is. After all, calculate your cat’s age very quickly in their first couple of years, then progress more slowly and steadily as they get older. One of the most common misconceptions is that a year in a cat’s life equals seven human years, but the truth is a little bit different.
How to Accurately Calculate Your Cat’s Age
To help you figure out your cat’s age, take a look at their teeth and eyes. A kitten usually starts developing their deciduous (baby) teeth at three to four weeks of age, and it’ll have a full set of adult teeth by six or seven months. The color of their teeth can also provide clues as to their age. A healthy, young cat has bright white teeth, while yellowish or bluish teeth suggest they are older. Tartar build-up or missing teeth can also be a sign of advanced age.
Your cat’s eyes are another great indicator of their age. Cats who are young and healthy have bright, clear eyes. As they age, their iris tends to become cloudy, and they might begin tearing or experiencing eye discharge. Their coat and skin can also give you clues about their age. For example, a younger cat may have a tight, supple coat that is full of luster. A senior cat, on the other hand, may have saggy or dull skin and less elasticity in their muscles and joints.