When do cats get their eye color? - briefly
Cats' eye color typically becomes permanent between 7 and 10 weeks of age. This development is influenced by the amount of melanin present in the iris of the eye.
When do cats get their eye color? - in detail
Cats, like humans, are born with blue eyes that change color over time as they mature. This transformation is driven by the development of melanin in the iris, the colored part of the eye. Melanin is responsible for determining the final eye color of cats, and its production begins shortly after birth.
The process of eye color change typically starts within the first few weeks of a kitten's life. The earliest changes usually occur around 7 to 10 days old, with more significant shifts happening between 4 to 8 weeks. During this period, the blue eyes of newborn kittens gradually transition into various shades such as green, yellow, or amber. In some cases, cats may retain their blue eye color throughout their lives, a trait that is often associated with specific breeds like the Siamese.
The exact timing and final outcome of this transformation depend on several factors, including genetics and the amount of melanin produced in the iris. For instance, cat breeds known for their striking blue eyes, such as the Russian Blue or the British Shorthair, carry specific genetic traits that influence eye color development.
In summary, while newborn kittens universally possess blue eyes, this initial state is temporary and subject to change as the cats age. The transition towards their permanent eye color is a gradual process that unfolds over the first few months of life, shaped by both genetic predisposition and the production of melanin in the iris.