5 Tips For Taking Care Of A Deaf Cat
Having a deaf cat can seem like a difficult task to tackle. In addition to its usual needs, you will have to learn new ways to understand what you need. In this article, we will give you 5 tips for caring for a deaf cat.
While it may seem difficult, caring for a deaf cat is actually not that complicated. Cats, like humans, are very able to adapt and with a certain constancy they can be understood without problems. Read on for our tips for caring for a deaf cat.
How to take care of a deaf cat
Some cats are born deaf and others become deaf in their lifetime. The most common cause of non-congenital deafness in cats is age. Other causes can be linked to diseases of the ear canal such as otitis.
There is evidence of a relationship between domestic cat fur pigmentation and the incidence of congenital hearing disorders. For example, not all white cats are deaf, but blue-eyed white cats are more likely to suffer from congenital deafness.
Symptoms of deafness in cats
To find out if your cat is or is going deaf, you should take him to the vet and pay attention to his behavior. A common symptom of deafness in cats is that they sleep a lot. This symptom can be confusing, as cats generally like to sleep.
A deaf cat can also appear more alert. If you notice your cat’s unusual interest in you or those of other pets in the house, it is because he is watching your movements more carefully.
Many deaf cats observe the behavior of their owner or that of other animals to find out what is happening around them. Other common signs can be:
- Your cat doesn’t notice when you enter the house.
- It doesn’t respond to everyday sounds, such as its name, loud noises and toys.
- Doesn’t wake up with loud noises, like the doorbell.
- It has greater sensitivity to odors and temperature.
These are some of the possible signs of deafness in cats. Remember that if you have any doubts, it is good to consult your vet.
Tips for taking care of a deaf cat
Despite its condition, a deaf cat can be a pet like any other. In general, the care it needs is similar to that of a normal cat. We just need to consider a few details that will make your life easier and make your condition more bearable.
1. Avoid scares
Cats that live indoors still retain their wild instinct which makes them believe they are always being hunted. For this reason, sneaking up on your cat can cause a lot of stress, even if you don’t do it on purpose.
It is recommended that you use visual cues to indicate to your cat that you are approaching him. If he’s sleeping and you want to get his attention, be sure to use vibrations – the tremor will warn him of your presence.
2. Taking care of a deaf cat: education
Although they are slightly different from others, it is equally important to educate deaf cats. Because they are more in tune with visual stimuli, it is good to take the opportunity to use body language.
When he looks at you, crouch down and reach out to call him: this gesture will strengthen his instinct to approach.
You can stand up and wave your arms above your head as you approach to communicate your disapproval when jumping over the kitchen.
Also, you can teach a deaf cat not to jump on a table or furniture by using water to wet it a little. A jet of water is not painful and attracts the cat’s attention in case he is distracted. Also, according to some experts, it can help correct behavior without generating fear of you.
3. Make a deaf cat feel safe
There are too many external threats to a deaf cat – they can’t hear dogs barking, car horns, or people screaming.
For these reasons, it is important to provide a doghouse next to a window where he can look out and see everything that is happening. If you have enough space, you could create a cat cage in the yard where he can breathe fresh air and see other animals.
Another option could be to teach him to walk on a leash. You will have a lot of fun walking around the neighborhood with him and he will feel safe. Plus, he’ll learn faster than you think!
4. Companionship for your deaf cat
All cats benefit from having contact with other pets, especially other cats. This is especially true in the case of deaf cats. In general, in these conditions, felines will observe the behavior of other animals to understand what is happening around them.
The ideal would be to adopt two cats as kittens to facilitate coexistence when they get older. If you have a deaf cat and would like to adopt another to keep him company, it is important to make sure that the characters and breeds are compatible.
Also, you should understand that both of you will go through a period of adjustment. This can take anywhere from a few days to a few months. If you made the right choice, both cats will be happy to have a new friend.
5. Establish a routine
Cats are demanding creatures who love routine and reliability. This is even more true when your cat is missing one of his senses. To avoid disorientation and cause stress, ensuring a meal routine is essential, as is avoiding changing the arrangement of the furniture.
By creating a schedule and following it, you can quickly teach a deaf cat important household routines. Felines can learn in the same way as dogs when it is time to feed and where.
Cats, deaf or not, need to be happy. In general, taking care of a deaf cat is not difficult, so if you have decided to adopt one, you will discover a special friend with whom you can learn new ways of communicating!
