Bringing a new kitten into your home is an exciting journey, especially when it’s a majestic Grey Maine Coon. Known for their impressive size, gentle nature, and striking looks, Grey Maine Coon Cats make wonderful companions. If you’re a new breeder or a future guardian, understanding the week-by-week development of these fluffy felines is crucial. This kitten care guide will walk you through the incredible first weeks of a Grey Maine Coon kitten’s life, offering insights into their rapid growth and the care they need from birth until they are ready for their forever homes.
Newborn Grey Maine Coon Kittens: Week 1
The arrival of newborn Grey Maine Coon kittens is a heartwarming experience, reminiscent of welcoming a human baby into the world. They appear incredibly fragile and delicate, requiring constant care and attention, especially from their mother. In these initial days, the focus is on allowing the mama cat to bond with her kittens undisturbed.
During the first week, the mother cat remains almost exclusively in the nesting box, dedicating herself entirely to her newborns. She may seem exhausted, particularly in the first couple of days after birth, but her love and dedication to her kittens are unmistakable. Her body language, gentle purrs, and constant interaction with her offspring clearly display her maternal instincts taking over. It’s fascinating to witness this natural process unfold. Initially, her appetite might be reduced, but her priority remains centered on her newborn Grey Maine Coon kittens.
Around the third day, the mother cat’s appetite typically returns, and she starts eating more to replenish her energy. She will quickly consume her meals before hurrying back to the kitten box, eager to resume her care duties. This period is a testament to the incredible dedication of a cat mom. At this stage, gentle handling of the kittens for brief periods is acceptable. Short head rubs and quick photo opportunities, always under the watchful eye of the mother, can begin to introduce the kittens to human touch. It’s important to ensure the mother cat remains comfortable and trusts your presence.
When handling the newborn Grey Maine Coon kittens, always keep them close to their mother, allowing her to see and smell them. This reassurance helps her understand that you are not a threat. She might express slight concern with soft chirping noises, but this usually indicates her acceptance of your gentle interaction with her precious babies. She is undoubtedly proud of her beautiful Grey Maine Coon offspring.
Newborn Maine Coon kittens with their mother
1 Week Old Grey Maine Coon Kittens
By the end of the first week, the mother cat, now a seasoned pro, settles into her role. She starts spending slightly more time outside the kitten box, usually when the Grey Maine Coon kittens are asleep and quiet. Any tiny sound from her babies will send her immediately back to their side, demonstrating her unwavering attentiveness.
In this first week of life, each Grey Maine Coon kitten will have gained approximately 4 ounces. Their physical strength becomes visibly stronger day by day, evident in how they maneuver around and hold their heads up with increasing control. For the breeder, the first week is relatively straightforward. Regular checks on the kittens and their mother, perhaps 15-20 times a day, are essential to ensure all is well. However, the primary caregiver remains the mother cat, who expertly manages all aspects of kitten care.
Reflecting on the first week, it’s clear that the journey of raising Grey Maine Coon kittens is just beginning. The passion for Maine Coons, especially these adorable kittens, intensifies profoundly. Witnessing these perfect tiny creatures and the incredible motherly instincts of their mom is a truly heartwarming and validating experience.
2 Week Old Grey Maine Coon Kittens: Eyes Opening and First Scoots
Week two marks a period of exciting development for Grey Maine Coon kittens, most notably the opening of their eyes.
When Do Kitten Eyes Open?
Around day eight, as evening approaches, you might notice a tiny slit in one of the kitten’s eyes – a peephole to the world! By the next day, the other eye usually follows suit. It typically takes about two days for their eyes to fully open. This milestone is transformative; as their eyes open, the kittens seem to truly come alive. Eyes truly are the windows to the soul, even for Grey Maine Coon kittens!
Here’s a glimpse of a baby girl as her eyes first peek open:
Maine Coon kitten eyes opening
By ten days old, both Grey Maine Coon kittens will likely have their eyes fully open and be taking in their surroundings. However, kitten vision remains blurry until they are about 10-12 weeks old. Imagine their vision being similar to trying to drive at night without glasses. Despite the blurriness, they can perceive light and movement, and they will start to look up when someone enters the room. This interaction is incredibly endearing.
Kittens Start to Scoot Around in Week 2
Mobility also increases dramatically in the second week. While not yet walking, Grey Maine Coon kittens begin to “scoot” around. These movements are wobbly and shaky, but it’s astonishing to witness a creature just ten days old starting to navigate its environment. This rapid development is a hallmark of kittenhood.
Here’s a short video capturing one of the kittens, Clare, taking her first wobbly steps:
(Unfortunately, I cannot embed a video here, but imagine a cute video of a kitten scooting)
Mama Kitty Finally Takes a Break
After nearly two weeks of constant devotion, the mother cat starts to adjust to her new life. By the second week, she appears well-rested, her appetite is strong, and she’s regaining her pre-pregnancy physique.
She begins to take advantage of quiet moments when the Grey Maine Coon kittens are sleeping to venture out of the nesting box for longer periods. She understands the rhythm of kitten naps and uses this time for her own needs, showcasing her excellent mothering instincts and growing confidence in her ability to care for her litter. The kittens, meanwhile, instinctively snuggle together for warmth during their frequent naps.
3 Week Old Grey Maine Coon Kittens: On Their Feet
Week three brings another significant leap in development as Grey Maine Coon babies get onto their feet. They are much less wobbly and are gaining traction, showing more determination to move and explore. While still unsteady, their mobility has markedly improved.
Their physical appearance also evolves rapidly. They start to resemble fluffy, adorable kittens more closely. Their heads round out, and their fur becomes shaggy and soft – classic traits of Grey Maine Coon kittens. Distinct personalities begin to emerge, with each kitten displaying unique behaviors and temperaments.
This week often marks the transition from the confined kitten box to a larger kitten playpen. This expanded space allows the Grey Maine Coon kittens to venture further and take longer strides as they learn to strengthen their legs and develop their playful nature. They will remain in the playpen until they become adept at escaping, which usually happens within a couple of weeks. Afterward, they will have free roam of a kitten-proofed nursery.
Each day brings new changes, and observing Grey Maine Coon kittens at this stage is a constant delight. Their development seems to occur hourly. One moment their ears might be floppy, and the next, they are standing erect – a testament to their rapid growth. It’s easy to understand why breeders find raising Maine Coon kittens so incredibly rewarding.
Newborn Maine Coon kittens with their mother
Witnessing these Grey Maine Coon kittens grow and develop each week into beautiful, large cats is truly a remarkable experience.
4 Week Old Grey Maine Coon Kittens: Teeth, Water, and Walking
Week four is packed with milestones and exciting developments for Grey Maine Coon kittens and everyone involved in their care.
When Do Kittens Get Teeth?
During the fourth week, tiny teeth emerge in the mouths of Grey Maine Coon kittens! They now officially have the ability to nibble and mouth. While their teeth are small and their bites are gentle, you can certainly feel the little teeth if they decide to playfully bite. Tickling their tummies might elicit a display of these new teeth.
Maine Coon kitten eyes opening
With the arrival of teeth, it’s time to introduce solid food to the mother cat within the kitten playpen. She can be offered wet food in the morning and dry kitten kibble throughout the day. These tiny kibbles are specifically designed for kittens and will prepare them for transitioning to solid food when they are ready. However, at this stage, Grey Maine Coon kittens typically show minimal interest in anything other than their mother’s milk.
When Do Kittens Drink Water?
An adorable discovery often happens around this time: kittens learning to drink water. While spending time with the kittens outside their playpen, you might witness one venture towards a water bowl and curiously dip its head in. They might get a little water in their nose and sneeze, but quickly realize what it is and enjoy their first taste of water.
Mother cats often instinctively guide their kittens in learning to drink properly. Witnessing a mother cat demonstrating how to drink water to her Grey Maine Coon kittens is an exceptionally cute moment. She will sit nearby as they lap up their first drinks, ensuring they are learning correctly.
When Do Kittens Start Walking?
After weeks of wobbling, week four is when Grey Maine Coon kittens truly find their balance and stand upright confidently. They can now walk with ease and are even beginning to attempt running! While they might still stumble occasionally when trying to run at full speed, their walking ability is well-established.
Kittens Play Fighting
One of the most endearing behaviors to emerge this week is play fighting. These tiny Grey Maine Coon kittens start to engage in mock battles with each other, acting like miniature versions of adult cats. They playfully wrestle, kick with their hind legs, and tumble around – all in good fun.
You can often capture glimpses of these playful fights:
(Imagine a short description of kittens playfully fighting)
It’s Playtime in the Kitten Nursery
With improved stability and coordination, playtime becomes more interactive. Introducing small toys like balls and wobble toys into their playpen further encourages their developing motor skills and playful instincts.
The “goofy” newborn look starts to fade, and Grey Maine Coon kittens increasingly resemble the beautiful, fluffy cats they are destined to become.
Maine Coon kitten eyes opening
If you find yourself captivated by these adorable Grey Maine Coon kittens and are considering adding one to your family, the first step is to inquire about becoming a Pre-Approved Guardian.
5 Week Old Grey Maine Coon Kittens: Real Kittens Emerge
Week five marks a significant transformation – Grey Maine Coon kittens truly become “real” kittens. This week is remarkable to observe as they evolve into pouncing, playful furballs of joy. The kitten nursery becomes a hub of activity, filled with playful chaos, only pausing for nap times. When sleep calls, they abruptly stop playing and instantly fall asleep – lights out!
Pounce, Play, Pounce, Pounce
Pouncing becomes a favorite pastime for five-week-old Grey Maine Coon kittens. They hop and bounce around, exploring their environment with newfound agility. They engage with toys, chase strings, and generally turn the nursery into their personal playground. The mother cat often takes on a more supervisory role, watching from a perch like a cat tree, intervening only if she hears unusual noises or senses a need to investigate.
The kittens also start interacting more with their mother, playfully “attacking” her. Watching them chew on her ears and chase her tail while she lies contentedly nearby is a delightful scene. She appears to revel in their playful interactions, tolerating their tiny teeth with remarkable patience.
When Do Kittens Eat Real Food?
While still nursing from their mother, Grey Maine Coon kittens are now exposed to canned food and dry kitten kibble in their playpen. They learn by observing their mother how to eat solid food, mimicking her actions and gradually developing their own eating habits.
Guess What? They’re Going Potty in the Litter Box!
Introducing a low-sided litter box with non-clumping litter into their play area is another milestone this week. It might take a couple of days, but soon you’ll find evidence of successful litter box usage! While the exact learning process might be unseen, it’s likely the mother cat instinctively guides them. Litter box usage becomes a regular part of their routine.
Grey Maine Coon kittens using a litter box
6 Week Old Grey Maine Coon Kittens: Kitten Romper Room!
Stepping into the kitten nursery in week six is like entering a “kitten romper room.” Walking is no longer sufficient; Grey Maine Coon kittens now HOP around like tiny kangaroos! They are awake for longer periods, and the sound of their tiny paws pattering across the floor is a constant soundtrack during their waking hours. Play is their primary occupation.
Initially confined to a smaller area with a baby gate, their climbing abilities necessitate expanding their territory. The baby gate comes down, and the mother cat and kittens gain access to the entire kitten-proofed room. Preparing this space is akin to baby-proofing for a crawling infant. Anything at kitten level needs to be safe, and plenty of toys are essential to keep them entertained.
Before removing the baby gate, while filming the kittens in their smaller pen, a sudden foot movement inadvertently startled Clare, resulting in a comical “scared poopless” moment!
What Age Are Kittens Weaned From Their Mothers?
By six weeks old, Grey Maine Coon kittens are eating independently, consuming both canned and dry kitten food. While the mother cat still allows nursing occasionally, these sessions become shorter. If kittens approach her while she’s lying down, she might tolerate nursing for about 30 seconds before getting up and moving away. She is actively encouraging their independence, and perhaps the sharpness of their teeth also plays a role in her weaning process.
Greetings When You Walk in the Room
Grey Maine Coon kittens develop a keen awareness of sounds, particularly the door opening. Regardless of their activity – even if sound asleep – they will instantly jump up and rush to the door, eager to greet anyone entering and start climbing legs. Scratch marks on legs become a common badge of honor for anyone spending time with these affectionate kittens!
Grey Maine Coon kitten with silver fur
7 Week Old Grey Maine Coon Kittens: First Vaccinations
Week seven marks an important step in healthcare – the first set of vaccinations for the Grey Maine Coon kittens. Loaded into a cat stroller, they embark on their first outing to the veterinary office, just a short walk away, offering their first glimpse of the outside world!
The veterinarian is invariably charmed by the kittens. One kitten might be perfectly well-behaved during the exam and shots, while another might display a bit more “sass,” putting up a small protest – personality differences are already well-defined. They are scheduled for booster shots in three weeks, and their future guardians will then take over for the final booster and rabies vaccination.
Healthy Grey Maine Coon kittens at the vet
8 Week Old Grey Maine Coon Kittens: Out of the Nursery!
With their first vaccinations completed, week eight brings a significant change of scenery – Grey Maine Coon kittens are ready to leave the nursery they’ve called home since birth! Initially, the nursery door might be opened with a baby gate in place, but this semi-confinement is short-lived due to their adventurous spirits.
(Imagine a description of a kitten escaping a baby gate)
A vast new world awaits them beyond the nursery. They are introduced to resident adult cats, perhaps a dog, and the expansive living room becomes their new playground.
Whenever someone is home to supervise, the Grey Maine Coon kittens are allowed out to socialize with other pets and family members, and to acclimate to a larger living space.
Their energy levels are seemingly limitless. Week eight is often considered the most entertaining week to observe them. They are constantly in motion, showcasing impressive leaps and distinct personalities. When awake, they are in perpetual motion, racing through the house, wrestling with siblings, and climbing on anything and everything.
The adult cats often find amusement in watching the kittens’ antics, providing them with a high-energy form of entertainment.
However, time is fleeting. The Grey Maine Coon kittens’ stay at the cattery is drawing to a close. In just a few more weeks, they will embark on new adventures with their forever guardians. Until then, every moment of playtime and cuddle time is cherished.
Grey Maine Coon kitten with torbie markings
9 Week Old Grey Maine Coon Kittens: Run of the House
By nine weeks old, Grey Maine Coon kittens have earned the run of the house, with the exception of nighttime when supervision is limited. Sufficient monitoring has provided confidence in their ability to explore safely and learn to navigate a typical household environment, complete with everyday sounds like vacuum cleaners, conversations, televisions, doors opening and closing, and even background music.
Grey Maine Coon cat exploring
They show a clear affinity for the company of adult cats. In particular, a strong bond often forms between one of the kittens and an older cat, leading to constant companionship.
9 week old Grey Maine Coon kittens bonding
10 Week Old Grey Maine Coon Kittens
Grey Maine Coon tortie tabby kitten
11 Week Old Grey Maine Coon Kittens: Acting Like Big Cats Now
A noticeable maturation occurs around eleven weeks. Grey Maine Coon kittens start behaving more like adult cats. They become more independent, developing individual preferences for sleeping spots and hiding places. They even recognize the sound of treats being dispensed and come running for their share.
The importance of keeping kittens for a full 12 weeks to ensure complete socialization becomes evident. The transformation in their behavior from their initial nursery exit to this stage is remarkable. They evolve into cool, confident kittens, eager to explore their entire domain, even venturing upstairs!
Grey Maine Coon kittens in Florida home
12 Week Old Grey Maine Coon Kittens: Ready for New Homes
The bittersweet moment arrives – 12-week-old Grey Maine Coon kittens are ready to go to their new homes. For the breeder, it’s the culmination of weeks of dedicated care and nurturing. The reward is knowing these babies are well-prepared to bring joy to their new families for years to come. Witnessing these wonderful Grey Maine Coon kittens grow into amazing young cats has been an incredibly fulfilling experience.
When Can Grey Maine Coon Kittens Go Home?
Grey Maine Coon kittens are ideally ready to transition to their new homes around 12 weeks of age. This period ensures they are not only properly weaned and physically developed but also fully socialized, benefiting from both their mother’s guidance and human interaction. This comprehensive socialization gives them the confidence needed to adapt well to their new environments and become well-adjusted, loving companions.
