Whether from birth, old age, or somewhere in between, pets can become deaf at any point in life, and their chances only increase with age. Unfortunately, some breeds are at more risk than others.
The good news is that animals are masters at adapting their senses, and most pets can live perfectly happy lives without hearing! However, it will also require some adaptation from humans. But it’s okay; we know your furry friend is worth it.
Symptoms of Deafness in Pets
If you believe your pet may be going or already deaf, a couple of tell-tale signs can clue you in. The most obvious sign is when your pet fails to respond to their name or verbal commands, but there are other symptoms to be aware of. Before total hearing loss, your pet may stop reacting to high-pitched sounds like whistles or squeaking toys because high-frequency sounds are the first in which our ears tend to lose hearing ability. You might notice your pet tilting their head more often to one side when high-pitched noises occur or when you’re speaking to them as they try to hear you better.
As hearing loss progresses, your pet may also start to become disoriented or show signs of anxiety. Anxiety may manifest differently depending on the animal – dogs might start relieving themselves inside or begin barking more often than usual.
Cats might refuse their food or become more prone to hiding. Whatever sign or symptom catches your attention first, make sure to contact your veterinarian so you can figure out any possible treatment options and next steps. Your vet can also help you find a trained specialist to perform the BAER test, which is the only way to be 100% certain your pet is deaf.
While typically performed on dogs, the BAER test can also diagnose other animals.
Causes and Treatments for Deafness in Pets
While your pet’s hearing loss may be scary, many treatment options can help. The first step is understanding the difference between the two types of deafness pets can have.
Deafness is considered congenital when the pet is born deaf or becomes deaf shortly after birth. It is often caused by genetics or abnormalities. In these cases, deafness is most likely permanent, and treatment options focus more on adapting to the condition rather than reversing it. For example, one common strategy is using sign language or visual cues for training and communication.
On the other hand, if your pet becomes deaf as they age or due to an accident or medical condition, this is known as acquired deafness. In these instances, the cause of deafness is important to determine if medical treatment or surgery may help. If the hearing loss is irreversible, strategies similar to those used for congenital deafness, such as sign language and visual cues, will be beneficial in managing and accommodating your pet’s needs.
For some instances of pet deafness, cochlear implants or hearing aids might be an option you might hear about. However, both options can be costly, often ranging into the thousands of dollars, uncomfortable for your pet, and not guaranteed to work.
How to Care for a Deaf Dog or Cat
One of the most important aspects of caring for a deaf pet is learning to communicate effectively with your pet. Since spoken commands won’t work, you must find new ways to get your pet’s attention. Visual cues, like hand signals for sit, stay, and come, are a good substitute. Another effective method is to use vibrations or gentle touches. By tapping the floor or stomping your feet, you can create vibrations that your pet can feel, signaling them to pay attention.
After communication, how you train your pet will likely also have to change. Positive reinforcement is critical when training your deaf pet. We recommend using lots of treats, praise, and rewards to reinforce desired behaviors with your gestures or visual cues.
Additionally, it’s essential to create a safe and stimulating environment. Provide your pet with plenty of interactive toys and playtime to engage them mentally and physically. Regarding outdoor activities, you’ll want to be extra aware of your surroundings and any potential danger, as your pet won’t be able to notice as many threats on their own.
And, of course, you can always find specialized training for your pet so you can support and enhance their overall well-being.
Adjusting To Life With a Deaf Pet
If you’re looking for additional resources to help you support your deaf pet, contact veterinarians, local animal shelters, or specialized trainers who have experience working with deaf animals. And if you’re worried about finding the right person to care for your deaf companion, contact us or check our services page! We’ll give your pet all the love, special care, and attention they need.
Remember, when caring for a deaf pet, it’s important to adapt and understand their needs so you can provide the best care possible. By implementing these tips and strategies, you can create a loving and supportive environment, and with time, you’ll develop a strong bond built on trust and effective communication.
Do you have any other tips? Share how you adapted to your deaf pet in the comments!
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