Deaf cats are incredibly good at compensating for their lack of hearing, so it may not become obvious for some time that a cat cannot hear at all. Deafness in cats can be congenital (present at birth) or acquired later in life. The condition may affect one or both ears and varies greatly in severity. If you are considering adopting a deaf cat or want to learn how to identify and manage deafness, this comprehensive guide will provide essential information.
Deafness in cats typically falls into two categories, depending on whether it is caused by nerve damage or a physical obstruction blocking sound passage. Recognising the type of deafness is important as some causes might be temporary or treatable, while others may be permanent.
Damage or dysfunction of the ear's nerves can impair hearing. A genetically inherited form of deafness predominantly affects white-coated cats with blue eyes due to a condition called cochleo-saccular degeneration. Other causes include:
Physical blockages in the ear canal may prevent sound from reaching the hearing structures. These causes can sometimes be reversed with treatment and include:
If a cat starts showing signs of hearing loss or you suspect deafness, veterinary assessment is essential for diagnosis and treatment options. Key symptoms include:
Once a vet confirms deafness and any treatable causes are addressed, you can help your cat adapt effectively using these strategies:
Cats adapt well to deafness with these thoughtful adjustments. Their quality of life can remain excellent with attentive, responsible care.