Deaf cats often adjust to their deafness by becoming more visually active and more sensitive to movement and vibrations. If you walk into a room where you deaf cat is sleeping, you can tap the furniture or the floor to keep from startling them. Keep in mind that deaf cats have a tendency to sleep very soundly and may be more easily startled and thus more prone to biting or hissing. It’s also recommended that you approach your deaf cat from the front, not the rear, to keep from frightening or startling them.

Deaf cats often benefit from having the company of another cat with normal hearing. The other cat will become the ‘ears’ for the deaf cat, as well as a playmate and companion.

Keep in mind that while deaf cats and kittens may compensate well for their disability, they may not be aware of some dangers like cars or hostile animals. For that reason it’s often recommended that your deaf cat be an indoor cat. You can, of course, teach them to walk on a leash or harness and still allow them some enjoyment of the outside world.

Finally, your veterinarian can help with hearing tests. Deaf cats should be neutered and should not be used for breeding.

Previous about caring for a deaf cat.