Just like humans, cats may become deaf as they become old. It’s not very visible because it happens constantly. For a few cats, it’s something to do with genetics. They’re simply born deaf, whether partly or completely. A large number of cases involving congenital deafness are pigment-related. You’ll often see that the cat is all-white. However, not every white cat is deaf.
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How to tell if your cat is deaf
It is usually difficult to work out if a cat is deaf or not. This can be very true if there exists a pet cat at home. The hearing cat is usually looked upon by the deaf cat for visual cues about what’s happening at the time being.
On the other hand, if you merely have one feline friend within the household, it’s a lot easier to know if she is deaf or not. Be watchful of the following signs:
1.) Your pet cat gets startled very easily.
2.) She sleeps very soundly.
3.) When you arrive or enter your room, she has no reaction in the slightest degree.
4.) She doesn’t seem to notice you clapping your hands or you rattling the keys, for instance.
If your cat exhibits the above-mentioned signs, then there’s a tremendous possibility that your cat is deaf.
Special things you would see in your deaf cat
If your cat is deaf, she’s going to depend upon her other senses, like the sense of seeing and sense of touch. Here is stuff you may notice in your deaf cat which you’ll not see among hearing cats:
1.) Deaf cats may meow and purr louder. They enjoy the way their voice vibrates.
2.) Deaf cats notice vibrations of every kind. They easily feel the vibration from doors banging or the sound of music from a speaker at full volume.
3.) Since deaf cats are very easily startled they normally stay in very high places. In this manner, they might feel a sense of security.
How do you communicate with your deaf cat?
As stated earlier, since deaf cats depend upon the rest of their senses like vision and touch, they tend to be very alert of the environment especially if they don’t seem to be sleeping. These are some ways you’ll communicate along with your deaf cat:
1.) A cat toy like a laser pointer may help them notice you or get their attention, especially if they’re facing distance from us. The laser pointer light will lure her to return near you.
2.) Visual cues can also be utilized to catch their attention. You’ll try turning the lights on and off once you enter the space. That way they’ll be prompted to show you around and see you.
3.) It is essential to also communicate via touch and vibration. A slight knock on the door uses vibration to inform your cat that you are present in the room.
4.) Cat toys are the key. Spending time playing along with your feline friend is an awesome way to communicate with your deaf cat.
Common Asked Questions
Should I worry about any health problems related to deafness in cats?
No, there’s, of course, nothing to fret about. Deafness in cats isn’t related to any special health concerns.
Are deaf cats more affectionate?
Yes, deaf cats are more affectionate than cats which will hear. They make very good pets. However, ensure your cat is deaf before you get overly concerned about anything. The most efficient way is to go to the vet and get your feline friend tested.
If it seems that your cat is totally deaf upon visiting the vet, then try and be as courteous as possible when you’re approaching the cat since deaf cats are very easily startled.
Can deaf cats be trained?
Yes, deaf cats can be trained. You’ll use the principle of clicker training but instead of a clicker sound, you’ll use a camera flash or flashlight to mark the chosen response.
Conclusion
You should always remember that when a cat is deaf, it is deaf. A big responsibility comes together with having a deaf kitty. You can’t simply allow them to get out of the house and leave them on their own. Deaf cats can’t hear traffic sounds like the honking of automobile horns. They won’t be able to know if there is danger nearby. Deaf cats need security and deserve a life indoors.
Some deaf cats may quickly feel the vibration on the floorboards as we are approaching them. However, some may get startled. Hence, it’s significant that we do not creep upon them. A light-weight tap on the ground or the door is enough to catch their attention.
Deaf cats can lead normal and happy lives as long as you have the patience and consideration and appropriate respect for them.
