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This question is complex and involves many genetic factors, beyond just the color of the fur and the eyes. In this case, it is said that this explanation is polygenic, that is to say that it is the consequence of several genes whose sum generates deafness and most of which are not yet identified by science.
When a white cat is born deaf, we cannot expect an improvement in its hearing with age. Conversely, if a white cat is not born deaf, but becomes so as it ages, this hearing loss will not be linked to the W gene, but to a normal degeneration of hearing due to age or illness.
It seems that deaf cats compensate for part of their hearing loss with better vision. Indeed, studies have shown that deaf tomcats are able to better understand movement, in particular the speed of movement of an object, and they seem to have a wider field of vision than a hearing cat.
Unfortunately, deafness in white cats is not without consequences. They are much more sensitive animals and more prone to stress. Indeed, the loss of hearing generates a loss of reference points that the other senses are not able to completely compensate for. These cats are therefore much more sensitive in the event of changes, they are often more distant, sometimes even more aggressive. They are also generally more talkative and louder, as they try to be heard, but without measuring the range of their voices.
Owners of deaf white cats are advised to avoid or greatly limit access to the outdoors, as the pet does not always perceive the danger. Indeed, the risk of being struck by a vehicle is increased because the animal does not hear it coming.
To reduce the risk of giving birth to a deaf kitten during breeding, certain crosses should simply be avoided.
Avoid crossing two white cats. At least one of the two parents must be colored, but be aware that the white mask will remain dominant on the litter if one of the parents is white. On average, only 25% of kittens born to a white parent and a parent with colored fur will be born deaf, while the risk rises to 50% with two white parents.
Avoid breeding a cat that is already deaf. In this case, the risk of transmission within reach is around 50%.
Avoid crossing two blue-eyed cats, even if they are not white, as the risk of deafness remains, although it is difficult to quantify.