Do White Cats Have Health Problems – Care Guide & Concerns

Before adopting a cat, it is always a great idea to research various breeds to make sure you are adopting one that will be the right fit for you. Certain breeds of cats can have health issues that they are born with or develop over time. These health issues can also be related to the type of coat they have and not just their breed. Understanding these health concerns will help you to prepare yourself for their adoption. So, if you are considering adopting a white cat, you will want to do a little research and ask, do white cats have health problems?

Yes, white cats have health problems. White cats are prone to being deaf as well as skin cancers and burns.

Being deaf is typically the most major health issue they encounter, so as long as you feel confident taking care of a deaf kitty, a white cat is perfect for you. Also, not all white cats are prone to deafness; let’s explore this topic a little more.

What Diseases Do White Cats Often Suffer From

The most common disease that white cats experience is called Congenital Sensorineural Deafness. This disease is congenital deafness caused by the deterioration of the inner ear. This is a genetic disease that either affects them from birth or develops over time. 

Deafness is far more common in cats with white coats than cats with coats of other colors. However, white coats are the rarest coats found in cats; roughly only 2-5% of cats have white coats. 

Cats with white coats often have blue eyes, and many have speculated that they also experience blindness throughout their lives. This is untrue. Deafness is the only disease that is passed down genetically through white cats. A white cat may experience blindness, but that would be an individual case, not one that reflects what the majority of white cats experience. 

Are White Cats Usually Deaf

Of course, not all white cats are deaf. White cats with blue eyes are the ones that are most commonly found to be deaf. This is because the transformation of melanocytes determines the blue color in their eyes while they are still in the embryo. Melanocytes are cells that contain melanin, which, much like for humans, determines the pigment of their fur and eyes. So, when there are lower melanocytes in their eyes, their eyes will be blue. 

Lack of melanocytes causes white fur and blue eyes in cats. It also is what causes the deafness they may experience. Melanocytes form a band that regulates ion balance in the ear and plays a critical role in transmitting messages from the ears to the brain. When there is a lack of melanocytes, this band is not strong enough to transmit these messages, and eventually, the inner ear deteriorates, causing the cat to be deaf. 

About 30-40% of white cats with blue eyes are deaf. Considering roughly 2-5% of all cats are white, it is highly likely that if you encounter a white cat with blue eyes, it is going to be deaf. 10-20% of white cats without blue eyes are deaf, so it is still possible for various cats to experience deafness.

Or, if a white cat has two different colored eyes, the side with the blue eye will typically experience deafness because of that lack of melanocytes. Of white cats, roughly 15-40% of them have two different colored eyes, and of that range, 60-80% of them are deaf. 

How Can You Tell If Your White Cat Is Deaf

Most white cats that are deaf have been deaf since birth. They are usually born deaf or go deaf within the first few weeks of being born. Unless you adopt your cat from birth, you will probably be told that they are deaf. However, there are some cases where cats develop deafness over time, so it is essential to know what signs to look for. 

If you suspect that your cat may be deaf, start paying attention to how they react to noise. If you make some loud noises and do not jump or react, they may not hear you. Or, if they do not respond to the sound of their toys, treats, or food, your kitty may be deaf.

Many cats come running when they hear the shake of their treats or the squeak of their toy; if your cat used to do this and doesn’t anymore, it might be time to check out their ears. Also, they might be deaf if they don’t notice when you come home. You coming home might always surprise them, and this is because they don’t hear your keys, the door, or you talking to them.

Start taking note of how they communicate with you too. Cats that are deaf cannot hear their own volume, so they usually meow much louder.

If your cat is deaf, it will also have increased sensitivity to its other senses. Notice how they react to various temperatures and smells. If these senses seem to be heightened, then they might be deaf. You also might find your cat sleeping more often because if they are deaf, they are more difficult to disturb, and it is much easier to fall asleep anywhere at any time. 

What Is The Lifespan Of A White Cat

Considering the health issues white cats can experience, they have the same lifespan as all other domestic cats. Nothing about their genetics will cause them to have a shorter lifespan than other cats. 

As a cat owner, there are certain things you will need to do to take care of them to ensure they have a long, healthy life. Taking care of a deaf cat is different than taking care of a non-deaf cat. You will have to learn how to communicate with them differently to take care of them.

Cats are creatures of habit that love routine, especially for a deaf cat; they are going to depend significantly on the routine you establish for them. It is essential you don’t switch up routines too suddenly and consider them in the plans you make for your lifestyle.

Although they are relatively healthy, deaf cats are still considered special needs pets. They may cost a little more to take care of because they may need certain toys, food, vitamins, and extra visits to the veterinarian to ensure they stay healthy. Also, if you ever have to travel and leave them with someone else, you will have to make sure that person is confident in their abilities to take care of a deaf cat. 

Things To Consider

If you have non-deaf cats and you introduce a deaf cat into your home, you may have to do a little work to make them all feel comfortable. Your cats may not know how to communicate with each other at first, which can sometimes cause conflict and confusion. Be present and patient when integrating them. Soon they will be best buds in no time!