Deaf White Cats with Blue Eyes: A Unique Feline Phenome

Reasons for deafness in cats are often linked to genetics. Cats with dominant white genes are more prone to deafness, and those with this gene and blue eyes have an even higher chance of being deaf. This is because the pigmentation in their eyes can also affect their hearing. However, there's no need to worry about Siamese cats with blue eyes; they do not carry the dominant white gene, so they are not born deaf.

Besides congenital deafness, deafness can also be caused by ear infections, the toxic side effects of certain medications (like some antibiotics), or head trauma.

Cats with hearing impairments tend to be more startled, especially when you gently stroke them while they're sleeping. They may also be prone to excessive meowing, as they cannot hear their own voices and thus cannot regulate their volume.

Here are some veterinarianrecommended tips to better care for a hearingimpaired cat:

Keep them strictly indoors to minimize potential hazards.

Approach them from a direction they can see to avoid startling them.

When guests are over, consider keeping the cat in a separate room.

If you need to wake a sleeping cat, gently tap on their bed instead of touching them directly.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure a more comfortable and less stressful life for your deaf feline companion.