Deaf cats look like ordinary felines so it is hard to discern a deaf animal from a perfectly normal one. They do not fit the mental image of any disabled animal like the absence of one eye or a leg. It is a hidden issue. If you want to adopt a deaf cat, it is important to have knowledge concerning how to manage the beautiful feline.
Reasons for deafnessCats become deaf due to a number of reasons. It is hard to comprehend as the process is gradual. The cat's eardrums become progressively less flexible. Sounds do not get transmitted easily and in an effective manner. You may find a deaf cat not acknowledging your presence when you come home from work. A few cars are born either completely or partially deaf due to "congenital deafness", a genetic defect. The latter is related to the animal's pigmentation, and a majority of deaf cats in this category possess a majorly white or an all-white haircoat. Do note that these cats are not albino. You can differentiate between an albino and a deaf cat by observing the color in their eyes or part of the haircoat. There is no substance to the rumor that most white cats are deaf.
Behavioral observationsIf you have any doubts about whether your kitty is deaf, observe it carefully. A deaf canine usually looks at its hearing enabled counterpart to understand what is happening in the immediate environment. Other than that, its behavior is exactly like a normal cat, jumping all over the house. The deafness becomes more prominent when only the deaf animal is present in the house. The deaf animal enjoys a sound sleep and startles easily. It may not notice when you walk inside a room. If you observe these behaviors, confirm them by rattling objects when it is near. If the cat remains unperturbed, then it is a surety that your pet is deaf.Do not worry about other diseases if your cat is deaf. The condition is not linked with any other disease. You must use visual cues to communicate with your deaf cat. One example is when you call it, extend your one hand to “call” it. If you are angry, communicate your anger by waving your arms above the head. You can also squirt water from a bottle towards it if you are angry with the animal. The water will surely get its attention. Discipline your cat by making a certain schedule and sticking to it. Teach it the times when meals will arrive and where it will receive the food. It is vital that you use a number of strategies to communicate with your cat. Flash overhead lights to inform it of your presence. You can also stomp the floor as cats are susceptible to vibration.