How to tell if a kitten is male or female when it's newborn? - briefly
Determining the sex of a newborn kitten can be challenging due to their small size and underdeveloped genitalia. To identify the gender, carefully observe the area between the anus and the base of the tail. In male kittens, this distance is typically longer, and you may notice small testicles or a penis. In female kittens, the anus and vulva are closer together. It is crucial to handle the kitten gently and with care during this examination to avoid causing any discomfort.
How to tell if a kitten is male or female when it's newborn? - in detail
Determining the gender of a newborn kitten can be a delicate process that requires close observation and a gentle touch. At birth, the physical differences between male and female kittens are subtle, but with careful examination, they can be identified.
To begin, it is essential to ensure that the kitten is clean and dry. Newborn kittens are small and fragile, so it is crucial to handle them with care. The best time to check the gender is when the kitten is calm and relaxed, as this will make the process easier and less stressful for the kitten.
Male kittens typically have a small, round opening located just below the tail. This opening is the anus. Directly beneath the anus, there is another opening, which is the penis. In male kittens, the distance between the anus and the penis is relatively short, often appearing as a single, elongated slit when viewed from above. The penis in newborn males is very small and may not be immediately visible, but it can be felt as a tiny protrusion.
Female kittens, on the other hand, have a different arrangement. The anus is also located just below the tail, but beneath the anus, there is a vertical slit, which is the vulva. The distance between the anus and the vulva in female kittens is generally longer than the distance between the anus and the penis in males. Additionally, the vulva is usually more pronounced and can be more easily distinguished from the anus.
Another method to confirm the gender is to gently press on the area beneath the tail. In male kittens, the penis may protrude slightly when gentle pressure is applied. In female kittens, this action will not cause any visible changes.
It is important to note that the genital area in newborn kittens can be swollen due to the birthing process, which may make initial examinations more challenging. If there is any uncertainty about the gender, it is advisable to wait a few days and re-examine the kitten. As the kitten grows, the physical differences between males and females become more apparent.
In summary, identifying the gender of a newborn kitten involves careful observation of the genital area. Male kittens have a short distance between the anus and the penis, which may appear as a single slit. Female kittens have a longer distance between the anus and the vulva, with the vulva being more pronounced. Always handle newborn kittens with gentleness and patience to ensure their well-being during the examination process.