Deafness is the inability to hear sounds. Cats can experience total or partial deafness in one or both ears. The ear is made up of multiple parts that receive and transmit sounds. When one or more of these ear structures, like the ear drum or auditory nerve, are not able to work properly deafness or hearing loss can occur. The inability to hear can be congenital, meaning it occurs at birth. Some breeds, like Persians, Angoras, and Ragdolls, are at a higher risk of congenital deafness. It can also be acquired, meaning it is developed later in life due to factors like disease, trauma, or toxicity. Deafness itself is not life-threatening, but the underlying cause of it might be. If you pet is exhibiting signs of deafness or hearing loss consult a veterinarian immediately to determine its cause. 

The primary sign that a cat is experiencing deafness is a lack of response to sound. This can often be difficult to detect, especially if hearing loss is gradual or only occurs in one ear. In cats with congenital deafness, symptoms are usually apparent very early in life, even within the first few weeks. 

Symptoms Include:

There are different types of deafness that can occur in cats, depending on why sound is not transmitted to the brain. The types of deafness in cats include:

Many different causes of deafness exist. It can be linked to another disease or disorder or be caused by trauma or other issues. Common causes include:

If you observe symptoms of deafness in your pet, consult a veterinarian as soon as possible. Although deafness is often not treatable, many of the conditions that cause deafness can be treated if caught early, which reduces the amount of damage to the ear. Your veterinarian will need to discuss your cat’s history, including any recent medical treatments, traumas, or other causes of deafness that might be applicable to your pet. Be prepared to discuss the symptoms you have observed and the time frame in which they have been occurring. The veterinarian will perform a full physical examination of your pet and their ears. They may also use X-ray or other imaging to study the structures of the ear and identify any masses or other issues. A sensitivity test may be conducted to determine the extent of the hearing loss.

Treatment of deafness in your cat will depend on the type of deafness they are suffering from and its cause. Congenital deafness and many causes of nerve deafness are untreatable, and the inability to hear will be permanent. The causes of many types of conductive deafness are treatable. Your veterinarian will treat the cause, which can restore hearing or prevent total deafness. Even with appropriate medical response, your pet’s hearing loss may be permanent. Treatment options may include:

In many cases, deafness will be permanent, even if the cat recovers well from the issues that caused it. Follow your veterinarian’s instructions completely, including doses of medication and follow-up visits as required. While your pet is recovering, they will need additional support to adapt to their new limitation. Most deaf cats can still lead a happy, full life. There are several steps you can take to make life better for your deaf or hearing impaired pet. Flash the lights or use motion to get your pet’s attention when you enter a room to avoid startling them unnecessarily. Since they are unable to hear you, show affection through touching and eye contact. To reduce stress, avoid making major changes to your pet’s environment while they adapt.