Kitten Health - basics you need to know about teeth, nose, eyes & ears

To detect developing health issues as soon as possible, you should monitor your kitten´s behavior and appearance as good as possible, especially its teeth, nose, eyes and ears. Through this you can spot signs that it might have an infection or other problems. In this case, you should always consult a vet.

Teeth

A healthy teeth should be white, sharp, and evenly spaced with no signs of discoloration, rotting, or chipping. Kittens usually begin to get their baby teeth between the ages of three and six weeks old, and by the time they are six months old, they should have all of their adult teeth. 

Unhealthy teeth in kittens can have discoloration, yellowing, chipping, or have teeth that are too close together. There is also a risk for periodontal disease, which can cause painful gingivitis and cause bacteria to spread to other parts of the body. 

To take care of a kitten's teeth, you can brush them with a soft-bristled toothbrush and pet-safe toothpaste. For this you should get them used to having their teeth brushed while they are young. You can also help them maintain healthy teeth by providing them with crunchy food and chew toys that help remove plaque and tartar buildup. Additionally, regular dental checkups with a vet will help keep their teeth and gums healthy. 

Nose

A healthy kitten’s nose should be cool to the touch and free of any discharge or odors. It should be clean, dry and pink or black in color, with no signs of swelling, redness or scabbing. The nostrils should be symmetrical and clear of any obstructions. 

An unhealthy nose on a kitten may be crusty, dry or wet, with a discharge that can range from clear to yellow, green or brown. It may be swollen, red or scabbed, and can have an unpleasant odor. If the nose is warm to the touch, this may be a sign of a fever.

Health risks associated with an unhealthy nose on a kitten can include infection, respiratory problems, allergies, or even a tumor. To take care of a kitten’s nose, it is important to keep it clean and free of any discharge or odors. It is also necessary to check the nostrils for any obstructions, and to make sure the nose is not swollen or red. If the nose appears to be infected, it is best to take the kitten to a veterinarian for an examination and possible treatment.

Eyes

Healthy kitten eyes look bright and clear, with no discharge, inflammation, swelling, or redness. The pupils should be equal in size, and the eyelids should be free of any bumps or lesions. The whites of the eyes should be white, not yellow or red, and the eye should not have any discharge.

Unhealthy kitten eyes may appear cloudy, have discharge or be swollen, red, and/or irritated. There may be a crusty material present on the eyelids, bumps, lesions, or a yellowish color to the whites of the eyes. The pupils may be unequal in size, and the eyes may be sensitive to light.

Health risks of unhealthy kitten eyes include corneal ulcers, conjunctivitis, glaucoma, and blindness. These conditions can be caused by infection, allergic reactions, injury, or a birth defect. Treatments for unhealthy kitten eyes will depend on the underlying cause. Treatment may include antibiotics, eye drops, topical ointments, and/or surgery. In some cases, the condition may resolve on its own with proper care. It is important to seek veterinary care if you suspect your kitten has an eye condition. 

Ears

Healthy kitten ears should look smooth and have no visible signs of infection, such as inflammation, redness, discharge, or scabs. The ears may have some wax, but should not be overly waxy or have a strong odor. The inside of the ears should be clean and free of debris or dirt.

Unhealthy ears can have a strong odor, excessive wax, scabs, and redness or inflammation. These signs may indicate a bacterial or fungal infection, which can cause pain and discomfort. If left untreated, an ear infection can cause hearing loss or complications with balance.

To take care of your kitten’s ears, it is important to keep them clean and dry. You can use a cotton ball with a mild ear cleaner to clean the outer parts of the ear. Do not insert anything into the ear canal, as this can cause damage. Regularly  inspect your kitten’s ears to look for signs of infection. If you notice any of the signs described above, it is important to take your kitten to the vet for treatment.