How to distinguish a boy kitten from a girl kitten when they are newborns? - briefly
To determine the sex of newborn kittens, closely examine the genital area. Male kittens have a small, round opening located between the anus and the base of the tail, while female kittens have a longer, slit-shaped opening in the same area.
How to distinguish a boy kitten from a girl kitten when they are newborns? - in detail
Determining the gender of newborn kittens can be challenging due to their small size and underdeveloped genitalia. However, with careful observation and a gentle touch, it is possible to identify whether a kitten is male or female. The primary method involves examining the anogenital distance, which is the space between the anus and the genital opening.
For male kittens, the anus and the genital opening are typically farther apart compared to female kittens. The distance between these two points in males is usually about the width of a kitten's paw. Additionally, male kittens have a small, round protrusion just below the anus, which is the beginning of the penis. This protrusion is often more pronounced and easier to see as the kitten grows.
Female kittens, on the other hand, have a shorter anogenital distance. The anus and the genital opening are closer together, and there is no visible protrusion. The genital opening in females is a vertical slit, which may be slightly more challenging to identify immediately after birth but becomes more apparent as the kitten matures.
It is crucial to handle newborn kittens with extreme care to avoid causing them stress or injury. The process of gender identification should be done gently and quickly. If there is any uncertainty, it is advisable to consult a veterinarian, who has the expertise and tools to accurately determine the gender of the kittens.
Another method to identify the gender involves observing the behavior and physical development as the kittens grow. Male kittens often develop testicular descent, which becomes visible around 8 to 10 weeks of age. Female kittens, meanwhile, will develop nipple buds, which are small, raised areas on their belly. These buds will eventually develop into fully functional nipples.
In summary, distinguishing between male and female kittens at birth involves examining the anogenital distance and looking for specific physical characteristics. Gentle handling and careful observation are essential to avoid harming the delicate newborns. If in doubt, seeking professional veterinary assistance is recommended.