Having a new kitten is exciting and full of fun. So many things need to be taken care of to ensure the health of your new friend. After the initial veterinarian appointment, you will probably know what to do and how to take care of the animal. As the kitten grows, you may notice behaviors that are not what you expected, and you begin to worry that he may be unable to hear. Not responding to startling sounds or meowing rather loudly are nuances that can indicate hearing loss.
This is also something that many cat owners notice as their pet grows older, hearing loss in animals is common and, at times, produces worrisome behavior. If you are a cat owner who has seen some issues with your companion at a young age or even with your older cat, the BAER test may be something to bring a bit of peace to an otherwise stressful situation. After the test is done, which is not painful and, in most cases, does not require sedation, the owner will have answers. These answers will give clarity and reassurance to the owner on how to give the kitten/cat a happy and healthy life.
What is BAER Testing?
As we grow older, it is common for adults to lose some hearing. We can usually tell by the need to turn the TV up louder and straining to hear conversations with others. Animals can also have hearing loss, and it is common for older cats to become deaf. If you believe your cat is showing signs of hearing loss, the BAER test could help solve the mystery. BAER testing is simply a test to evaluate the hearing ability of an individual animal.
The brainstem auditory evoked response or BAER tests the animals' ability to respond to an auditory stimulus. The test is completed by using a specialized computer to record the auditory responses in each ear of a kitten and can also be performed on an older cat. A BAER test gauges the complexities of the external ear canal, middle/inner ear cavities, cranial nerve, and some areas of the brainstem. The BAER will help the veterinarian determine if the issues noticed by the owner are caused by deafness or a varying degree of hearing.
How Does BAER Testing Work?
The test is simple enough to take place in the veterinarian's office without sedation. The test is completed using a specialized computer and must be performed by a trained veterinarian or specialist. Some kittens can fall asleep during the procedure. If the procedure is being performed on an older or anxiety-ridden cat, it is possible to sedate the animal if needed.
Most all kittens and older cats do not feel any pain as the test is performed. The dog will have 3-4 electrodes placed under the skin on the head and a soft foam piece set in the ear. A sound, usually a click, will be emitted at various decibels to assess the cat's hearing ability. Each ear will be tested separately, and the total time will be no longer than thirty to forty-five minutes.
Why Choose Advanced Care Veterinary Hospital?
Advanced Care is more than just a primary care hospital. Our patients and clients are unique to us and are why we always treat everyone who comes to visit as another member of our family every time they walk in our doors. We do not treat every patient the same because we understand that each requires individualized care and attention.
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