What Is the Normal Birth Weight of a Newborn Kitten?
Female cats typically give birth after 63 to 67 days of gestation, but some may go as long as 70 days. It is important to weigh kittens when they are born and at least every other day until they are 2 weeks old to ensure that they are healthy.
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Average
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The average kitten weighs about 3.5 ozs. at birth, according to The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). Most will weigh between 3.2 to 3.7 ozs.
Litter Size
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It isn't uncommon for kittens in small litters to weigh more or in very large litters to weigh less. Very tiny kittens may not survive. Less than 3.1 ozs. is considered low birth weight.
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Breed
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Main coon kittens may be larger than average. Kitten weight may depend on the breed. Maine coons, one of the largest house cat breeds, often weigh 4.4 to 4.8 ozs.
Weight Gain
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It's important for kittens to maintain a steady increase in weight, veterinarian Mary D. McCauley says on the website of the Maine Coon Breeders and Fanciers Association. Stopping weight gain or loss of weight indicates a problem. The ASPCA says 1/4 to 1/2 oz. of weight gain per day is normal.
Weighing
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Buy a scale that weighs in grams to accurately measure your kitten's weight.
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References
Resources
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