Deaf Hamsters??

[spyro87]

So, this isn't exactly a personal health concern, this is entirely theoretical....

BUT, I've been really unable to find much information on this anywhere.... maybe I'm not searching for the right terms/keywords....

Anyway, how likely/possible is it that a hamster is or could be deaf? and, more to the point, how would you/someone diagnose deafness/hearing problems?

Theoretically

[ianpallen]

I would say the best way is to make a noise near it to see if it reacts. Dont knock the cage or touch it as it will feel the vibrations. If it responds or jumps when a noise is made, it isnt deaf. If you make a noise and nothing happens then you touch the cage or knock it and it will stir. It will feel the shock of the knock. Dont breath on it while testing for deafness as it will feel it, in other words, dont stand over as it might feel your breath but make sure you can see it.

[spyro87]

I was thinking perhaps some kind of, high pitched frequency noise maker might show up issues?
Y'know, if there is no reaction from the hamster, maybe there really is something wrong...?

I wonder though, what kind of care would be needed for such a hamster? :/ that can't exactly be ideal? and what, more to the point, would cause a hamster to be deaf? They're notorious for their amazing hearing.... how would a hamster manage without?

[ianpallen]

I suppose a hamster could be born deaf, just as some can be born blind. Just like any other living thing, there are possibilities with birth defects. They might be able to hear a higher pitch or lower pitch than we can. Do you have or know anyone who has one of them dog whistles. we cant hear them when blown into but dogs can. The pitch it too high for us. A ham might hear it. I dont know.

[Skeever]

A loud noise may still have repercussions that can be felt. Last night I was pretty sure that the two hams were talking behind my back....lol

Pooky was out playing, and Ziggy was in his cage, staring out and pacing in our direction. Which is just odd behavoir for him. He doesn't check things out unless he's really interested or wants to come out.

Perhaps it was only scenting that spurred it, though. He did seem engrossed, he was staring very directly in our direction, though.

I imagine a well cared for hammy would still be fine if deaf. Blind hams manage in captivitiy...I'm sure they would be adjusted to it. In this neighborhood though, there are frequent fireworks at certain times of the year, including gun fire....as well as busy city noises. Zig doesn't even flinch when fireworks go off that make me twitch....? go figure....

I don't think Ziggy's deaf, though. I think it's more of a 'I can't hear you! lalalalalalalalalalaa! syndrome....