30 Before-And-After Reminders That Cats Are Always Cute, No Matter The Size

Cats have been living alongside humans for around 10,000 years. Archaeologists discovered evidence of domesticated cats in Cyprus long before the internet was even a dream. Back then, humans gave them shelter, and in return, cats protected grain stores from rodents. And, of course, with cats come kittens. 

Experts agree that, after just 9 weeks in the womb, kittens are born tiny and fragile. They’re only about 3-4 ounces at birth; about the weight of a smartphone. Their eyes and ears are closed (they can’t see or hear properly until around 7 to 14 days old), but when their eyes do open, they’re always striking blue, because pigmentation in the iris hasn’t developed yet. 

By week 3, kittens start wobbling around and developing basic locomotive skills. By about 7-8 weeks, they’re exploring actively and engaging in social play like chasing, pouncing and climbing. Their hearing, smell and reflexes are super sharp, and their famous “righting reflex” (landing on their feet) begins developing at 3-4 weeks.

Kittens spend about 70% of their day sleeping. That endless napping fuels rapid growth and brain development. When awake, they can hear ultrasonic frequencies, allowing them to detect even the tiniest squeaks from potential prey. Their whiskers are ultra-sensitive and help them navigate tight spaces with surgical precision.

As kittens mature, they begin developing independence, and plenty of personality! Around three to six months, their coordination improves dramatically. This is when you start to see glimpses of the confident, self-assured cat they’ll become. Their baby fluff gives way to sleeker fur, and their signature cat “attitude” starts to shine through.

By the one-year mark, most kittens have officially transitioned into adulthood. They’re still playful but calmer, their energy now balanced with moments of zen-like relaxation. Adult cats retain that kitten curiosity but use it with more control. Their hunting instincts remain strong, even if their “prey” is just a feather toy or a laser dot these days.

While they could make a living just being cute, one of the earliest recorded professions for cats was that of a pest exterminator. Ancient Egyptians revered their ability to put an end to rodents that threatened grain supplies. Their efficiency in keeping food stores safe led to their worship, with some even being mummified alongside their owners - talk about an employee appreciation program.

During the Age of Exploration, cats became essential crew members. Sailors kept them on board to control rat populations that could spread disease or damage food supplies. Some cats, like Simon of the HMS Amethyst, became naval legends. Simon even received the Dickin Medal for his service during the Chinese Civil War, proving that ship cats were more than just freeloading furballs.

Whatever they grow up to be, watching a kitten mature is like watching chaos evolve into charisma. One day, they’re stumbling after their own tails; the next, they’re strutting around like they own the world. From helpless fluffballs to majestic purring companions, cats remind us daily why we fell in love with them in the first place.

What do you think of the before-and-after pics of the kitties in this list? Cuter as kittens, or cats? Upvote your favorites and don’t be shy to leave a comment if the cuteness is too much for you!