What it is
Hearing relies on delicate hair cells in the inner ear that turn sound vibrations into nerve signals. When these cells fail to form or die soon after birth, sound no longer reaches the brain.
The same gene that gives a cat its white coat is behind it, and that gene can also colour the eyes blue. A cat with one blue eye is sometimes deaf on that side only.
A deaf cat adapts well. It feels vibrations through the floor and reads hand gestures and light signals well, so approach it from the front to avoid startling it. Outdoors it will not hear an approaching car or dog, so it is safest at home or in an enclosed space.
Signs you may notice
- Ignores sounds
- Sleeps through noise
- Startles when touched
- Meows very loudly
- Does not turn when called
A kitten does not react to sounds, sleeps through noise and startles when touched unexpectedly. Deaf cats sometimes meow very loudly.
When to see a vet
If you suspect your kitten or cat cannot hear, book a visit so a vet can examine its ears and check its hearing.
This is general information, not veterinary advice. For your own cat's health, tests and treatment, see a vet.