Introduction
Caring for a pet with hearing loss can be a challenging yet rewarding experience. As pets age, like humans, they may lose their hearing. Sometimes, they may encounter a health problem or injury that causes hearing loss. This post will guide you through recognizing if your pet is deaf, understanding the needs of deaf pets, and offer practical tips and product recommendations to improve their quality of life.
Understanding Deafness in Pets
How does it occur?
Deafness in older pets can occur due to a variety of reasons including
● Normal age related changes (presbycusis)
● Ear infections, especially if long term
● Certain ear medications or ear cleaning products
● Excessive noise exposure
● Direct injuries, including aggressive ear cleaning
How can I tell if my pet is deaf?
Signs that may cause suspicion include
● Not responding to verbal commands
● Not adjusting their ears in response to sounds
● Being startled easily
● Not waking up until physically touched.
Discuss any concerns about your pet’s hearing with your veterinarian. However, to help the conversation, you may consider testing. There are two tests available that can further help you determine if your pet is deaf. The website http://www.PetAcoustics.com offers a home hearing test that you can complete. However, if you are unsure or need appropriate documentation (for example, in a young dog that’s not expected to be deaf), there is a medical test that can be performed by veterinary specialists at Ohio State.
Recognizing the signs of hearing loss early helps you adapt to better suit your pet’s needs.
Caring for a Deaf Pet
Home Environment
1. Safety First: Ensure your home is safe for a pet that cannot hear dangers approaching, such as cars or other animals. Secure fences and gates are a must if your pet spends time outdoors. If your pet got loose, it is especially important that they have a microchip because it may be difficult to recall them!
2. Keep Them Close: When outside, keep your deaf pet on a leash or in a secured area to prevent them from wandering off. Remember, they cannot hear danger signals or calls to return.
3. Use Visual Cues: Replace verbal commands with visual ones. Hand signals, flashlight signals, or even simple gestures can communicate with your deaf pet. The adage about teaching an old dog tricks is not true – they can learn! Pair a treat with the appropriate signal when your pet does the requested behavior; they are likely to begin associating the behaviors.
4. Vibrations: For larger dogs especially, creating vibrations on the floor by stomping can alert them to your presence. This can help to reduce their anxiety and prevent startling them.
5. Discuss Needs with Visitors and Family: Remember that startled pets may react out of fear. Care should be taken with children or others that may have health concerns that make bites especially difficult.
Product Recommendations
1. “Deaf Pet” Signs: Signs are a helpful clue to neighbors and others that verbal communication will not work for your pet. This can help them provide extra caution when in your driveway, for example.
2. Vibrating Collars: These can be used to get your pet’s attention or call them back to you without needing them to see you. Brands like PetSafe offer remote-controlled vibrating collars that are gentle but effective – these are NOT the same as “shock” collars.
3. Reflective Gear: For those times when you’re out with your pet in low-light conditions, reflective harnesses and leashes can help keep them visible and safe.
Connecting with Your Pet
Maintaining a physical connection through petting, grooming, and cuddles can reassure a deaf pet. They rely more on physical touch and smell to feel safe and connected.
Conclusion
Adapting to the needs of a deaf senior pet might seem daunting, but with the right tools and a bit of patience, you can help make their golden years comfortable and happy. Remember, the love and care you provide are what matter most to your pet. Take it from me – my cat, Olivia (16 years old!) has been deaf for years but is happy and comfortable!
Ken Brunson DVM, Board Member