Summary
Determining the sex of a very young kitten can be difficult. It should become easier with practice and as the kitten ages.
Determining a Kitten’s Sex
It may be challenging to determine the sex of a very young kitten. However, it should become easier as kittens age and as you see more kittens. Start by gently lifting the tail and looking at the area under the anus.
- In females, the genital opening will be a vertical slit or teardrop shape below and close to the anus.
- In males, the penis may be hidden but the prepuce opening will appear as a circle farther below the anus. The scrotum is located between the anus and the prepuce and may be more obvious in older male kittens as the testes descend into the scrotum.
Tip for Newborn Kittens: While you’re determining a kitten’s sex, sure to look for an anal opening. Newborns without an open anus must be seen by a veterinarian immediately.
