How To

How to Identify Hearing Loss in a Pet

Husky
Husky
Contributor
By Darlene Zagata
eHow Contributing Writer
(0 Ratings)

A pet may be born deaf but most hearing loss results from damage to the ear, disease or age. Certain breeds are prone to hearing loss. If your pet is suffering from hearing loss you should at least be able to notice subtle symptoms.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions

    How to Identify Hearing Loss in Pets

  1. Step 1

    Call your pet. Does he respond? Cats may not respond simply because they tend to be more aloof and unresponsive than dogs. In most cases dogs will respond when you call their names. If your pet is repeatedly unresponsive when called he may not hear you.

  2. Step 2

    Clap your hands. Does your pet show any indication of hearing the noise? His head should turn or ears twitch toward the direction of the sound.

  3. Step 3

    Bring out the food. Most animals will respond to the rattle of a cat or dog food bag or to the sound of the can opener. If your pet can hear well he should come running.

  4. Step 4

    Observe your pet's reaction to loud noises. Does he react to the sound of traffic or thunder during a storm? If your pet seems unresponsive to loud noises there's a good possibility that he is suffering from at least some degree of hearing loss.

  5. Step 5

    Listen to the sound of your pet's voice. Pets with hearing loss may have a higher toned pitch to their voice.

  6. Step 6

    Keep your pet indoors and don't allow him to go outside unsupervised if you suspect hearing loss. If your pet is suffering from hearing loss he won't be able to detect sounds of danger. You will have to take extra steps to ensure his safety.

  7. Step 7

    Contact your veterinarian if you suspect your pet is suffering from hearing loss. Your veterinarian can assess the state of your pet's hearing and provide a proper diagnosis.

Photo Credit

Nadezhda Bolotina/www.123rf.com

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