#CatsFacts [049] - #White_cats with blue eyes are prone to deafness ...

The ethereal beauty of white cats with those mesmerizing blue eyes has long captivated our hearts. But behind those striking eyes may lie a silent world. It's a lesser-known fact that white cats with blue eyes are at a higher risk of congenital deafness—a condition closely linked to their unique genetics. Why the Silence? The genetic link between the white coat, blue eyes, and deafness in cats boils down to the presence of a gene known as the 'W' gene. This gene is responsible for the white coat and often pairs with blue irises. Unfortunately, it also disrupts the normal development of the inner ear, leading to varying degrees of deafness, particularly in cats with two blue eyes. Research has shown that the probability of deafness in white cats with blue eyes is quite significant. According to the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, the likelihood of deafness increases from 17-22% in white cats with non-blue eyes to a staggering 65-85% in those with both eyes blue. Understanding the Risks While not all white cats with blue eyes will experience deafness, it's an important consideration for potential and current owners. Louisiana State University's research suggests that the presence of one blue eye can double the chances of deafness compared to cats with no blue eyes. Living with a Deaf Cat Deaf cats require special care, but this doesn't mean they can't live a fulfilling life. Keeping them indoors protects them from dangers they can't hear, and they often develop a heightened reliance on their other senses.

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