How to Guess a Kitten's Breed (and Adult Look)

Kittens are adorable mysteries. You can't be certain what a young kitten will become, but the clues are there if you know where to look.

Clues in a young kitten

Even very young kittens show breed hints — ear set, face shape, coat texture and body proportions start to show through. They're not proof, but they narrow it down.

What changes as they grow

• Coat colour and pattern often deepen by six months.
• Eye colour typically settles by three months.
• Body size and build become clear by six to twelve months.
• Long-haired coats may not fully develop until two years.

Use a photo identifier

Scan your kitten for the closest breed matches, then look up those breeds' typical adult traits. Re-scan every few weeks as features develop.

When you'll know for sure

Appearance matures gradually; a DNA test gives certainty at any age.

Curious about a cat right now? Open the app page: Kitten breed identifier.