I am the proud owner of a deaf ferret named Pistol who has taught me a lot. While owning Pistol I have gathered information in order to better understand her and help others learn how deafness affects ferrets.

Deafness in ferrets is more common than most people realize. It is estimated that as many as 75% of all blaze, panda, dark eyed white and mutt marked ferrets experience some degree of deafness. Finding out your ferret is deaf isn’t the end of the world; however it is an important part of communicating with your ferret. I talk with many new owners who feel their ferret is mean because they continue to bite, even when they yell out in pain, only to find out the ferret never heard them.

So, why are there so many deaf ferrets? Deafness in ferrets is almost always a result of Waardenburg syndrome, which leaves the inner ear underdeveloped. In ferrets with Waardenburg syndrome, deafness is linked through genetics to white markings on the head. Mass breeders and ferret farms produce deaf ferrets in large numbers because they are after the popular and desirable markings associated with it. Other ferrets who are born with perfect hearing may wind up deaf or partially deaf as a result of injury or ear infections that have gone without treatment.

Are there any specific behaviors to look for? Deaf ferrets seem to fit into two categories. You have your mute ferrets that make little to no sound, no matter how excited they get. Then you have your loud firecrackers, which dook, cry, hiss and scream at any given moment. A harmless tackle by another ferret may result in your deaf ferret screaming bloody murder when nothing is really wrong. On the flip side, a deaf ferret may be a little to rough during playtime because he cannot hear his playmates yelp. I have also found many deaf ferrets crane their head backwards when being held. In fact, it’s so common it has been nick named the “PEZ head”.

How can I tell if my ferret is deaf? Get creative. The most basic of household items can be used to help find out if your ferret has good hearing. Be sure you don’t create vibrations, and your ferret isn’t looking directly at you. It is also important to do several tests because ferrets in general aren’t always interested. Start by squeaking a toy behind your ferret. No reaction? Try something else. Shaking a can of coins, either over head, or while your ferret is asleep, is always good test. Avoid using a vacuum. Contrary to popular belief, a vacuum is not a good way to determine if your ferret is deaf. Vacuums put off vibrations and most deafies have a good time dancing around and investigating it. After a few tests, and time interacting with your fuzzy you should be able to tell.

Knowing your fuzzy can’t hear you is probably the most important part of owning a deaf ferret. You are able to adjust how you train, discipline, and show affection. In the end you will develop a deeper bond than if you didn’t.

Resources:

• Wolfy's Site
• Cypress Keep