How to Train a Deaf Cat

Deaf cats require special care and training.

Deaf cats can make wonderful pets and can live happy and healthy lives if given the appropriate care and attention. Although deaf cats may seem no different from other hearing cats, it is important that owners take the necessary steps to ensure a deaf cat is treated properly, kept safe and trained effectively. Understanding how deafness affects your cat will enhance your ability to properly handle these very special animals.

Instructions

1. Use consistent, clear hand gestures when communicating with your cat. Cats are intelligent and will soon begin to recognize what you are communicating if you consistently use the same hand gesture. For example, shaking your hand in a "thumbs down" motion while shaking your head will soon teach your cat that you mean "No."

2. 

   Take the necessary safety precautions to ensure your cat remains indoors at all times. A deaf cat is at a disadvantage in nature and would be unable to defend himself in a dangerous situation. Be sure that children and guests do not accidentally let your cat outside.

3. Do not startle your deaf cat by sneaking up on him. If you need to get your cat's attention, you can stomp your foot on the floor to create a vibration. This alerts your cat to your presence without being too intrusive.

4. 

   Use vibrating collars when training your deaf cat. For example, the Cat Locator enables you to send a small, harmless vibration to the cat's collar, helping you get your cat's attention or teaching him to refrain from a certain activity.

5. Take advantage of your deaf cat's heightened senses, including sight and smell. Use laser pointers or flashlights to play with your cat or get his attention. It is also helpful to wear the same perfume or cologne at all times so that your cat can recognize your scent when you enter a room.

6. 

   Use a loud, clear tone when talking to your deaf cat, and pay attention to your facial expressions. Cats are able to pick up on nonverbal communication, so smile when you are happy and frown when you are disciplining your deaf cat. Be sure to look directly at your cat when talking to him and do not obstruct your cat's view of your face.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure your friends and guests are aware of the fact that you have a deaf cat, so that they take the appropriate precautions when handling him. Practice various methods of communication to find what works best for your cat. Some cats respond to visual stimuli, while others respond more effectively to the hand gestures and facial expressions of their owners. If you do decide to let your cat outside, always supervise him. Consider getting a special outdoor cat crate that will allow your cat to spend time outdoors without escaping. Always make sure you cat wears a tag with your contact information. Writing "I AM DEAF" on your cat's tag is highly recommended. It is sometimes helpful to put a bell on your cat's collar so you can hear him when he's walking around. Take your cat to the veterinarian regularly to ensure he is healthy and has no additional problems. A deaf cat is already at a disadvantage, and any additional health problems may create unnecessary difficulties for your cat.

• Never yell at your deaf cat or throw things at him to train him or get his attention. Cats thrive on relationships of trust, and any hostility will only make your cat scared and more difficult to train.

References

• Communicating With a Deaf Cat
• PetDoc - Training Deaf Cats
• Living With a Disabled Cat

Resources

• Cat Locator Cat Collar