Introduction
Acquired hearing loss usually results from damage to the ear components: eardrum, middle or inner ear structures, and nerves. It can also be a consequence of disease or old age. There are some critical signs to look for if you expect your cat might be losing his hearing. These observations will help your veterinarian make a diagnosis.
Diagnosing Deafness in Cats
Cats experiencing hearing loss are sound sleepers. Loud, medium, or even soft noises might not wake him. If your cat usually awakens at the sound of footprints, notice how close you have to get to him before he stirs. If your pet only rouses if you touch him, this is a red flag. If he does not come when you call him from another room, he is probably just not testing your patience. He could be experiencing hearing loss.
Diagnoses can usually be made by observation but your veterinarian can definitively diagnose hearing loss through the Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response (BAER) test. The procedure is painless and takes 10-15 minutes to administer. Your veterinarian directs a clicking sound into the ears through earphones or a foam insert. Computers then measure the brain’s electrical activity in response to the sound. The test is expensive and only offered in select practices so many owners rely on an observational diagnosis, but it is available for owners who would like to be certain.
Many cats that have been diagnosed with hearing loss live happy lives. Cats can easily be taught to respond to hand signals, facial expressions or even flashlights. Owners will need to change some of the ways in which they deal with their cat, but there are many success stories.