Cats
Diagnostic tests are needed to determine the ability to hear and the presence of an underlying disease or cause of the deafness.
Deafness can be assessed by observing the animal's behavioral response, such as lifting or turning the head, after making a noise out of the animal's view. Dogs suspected of being bilaterally deaf can be challenged with sounds of increasing intensity from different directions. Be careful not to make sounds that can be "felt" through vibrations.
Animals suspected of having hearing deficits should have a thorough otic (ear) and neurologic examination performed. The ear canal and tympanic membrane can be examined with an otoscope for ear wax accumulation, foreign bodies, infections or inflammation.
Other diagnostic tests may be recommended based on the results of the history and physical examination.
Results of the history, physical examination and initial tests will determine the need for further diagnostic tests and will help determine the appropriate treatment for your pet's deafness.
Conduction deafness can be corrected if the cause, such as wax accumulation or infection, can be eliminated. Cleaning the ears should be done with care to prevent damage to the eardrum. Only well-trained and knowledgeable people should use cotton-tipped applicators such as Q-tips to clean the ears. Caution should be used. Cats with severely dirty ears may need to be cleaned under anesthesia by a veterinarian.
Infection may need to be treated locally (in the ear canal) and systemically with antibiotics.
Sensorineural deafness cannot be reversed with medications, surgery, or hearing aids. Hearing aids have been used in dogs and cats but the majority of the animals do not tolerate the presence of the hearing aid in the ear canal.
Testing can be done at home to assess hearing. Remember that your pet may "feel" sounds such as a door slamming or steps across a hardwood floor.
Treatment prescribed by your veterinarian should be performed as directed. Medications should be given as directed until finished. A bell can be attached to deaf animal's collar so that if they get away they can be found.
Deaf animals need to be closely supervised especially around traffic since they cannot hear dangers such as cars.
Veterinary care may include diagnostic tests and subsequent treatment recommendations.
Copyright © 2005-2016 Pet Information All Rights Reserved
Contact us: www162date@outlook.com