Are Blue-Eyed Rabbits Deaf?

Are you worried that your blue-eyed rabbit is deaf?

It’s pretty common for people to assume that rabbits with blue eyes are deaf. But is that really true?

We’re here to uncover the facts on these adorable creatures to find out whether their pearly blues equate to deafness or not.

This article takes a deep dive into whether or not blue-eyed rabbits are deaf, what causes their deafness, and what you can do about it.

Are Blue-Eyed Rabbits Deaf?

The fact of the matter is that no, rabbits with blue eyes are not necessarily deaf.

A rabbit’s eye color does not determine its hearing level. If your rabbit has blue eyes and is deaf, there could be multiple reasons behind it.

However, it is definitely has nothing to do with their eye color.

This is simply a myth that stands without any facts.

Why Is My Blue-Eyed Rabbit Deaf?

Your rabbit could be deaf because they have inherited it and could be deaf from birth.

Congenital hereditary deafness is unfortunately common in rabbits, and in fact, in several other animal species.

Similarly, they could also be born with defects that cause them to be deaf.

Moreover, if you have a blue-eyed lop, then it likely is deaf due to physical reasons, such as an ear infection.

Such rabbits that have drooping ears are also deaf because of the structure of their skull and ears.

Injuries and parasite infections, if left untreated, can also result in a dead rabbit.

Additionally, age is also another contributing factor. An old rabbit is more likely to become deaf.

Lastly, the breed of the rabbit may also be the reason why they are deaf. For example, Holland Lops are more likely than other rabbits to be fully or partially deaf.

How to Tell If My Blue-Eyed Rabbit Is Deaf?

If you suspect that your blue-eyed rabbit is deaf, you can consider conducting some tests yourself to check their hearing.

These little creatures tend to be quite responsive to their environment, especially sounds.

Since they are prey animals, they tend to be alert and responsive to noise. When they hear loud noises, they immediately try to hide or find shelter.

Deaf rabbits tend to rely heavily on their other senses, which is why you might notice the excessive movement of their whiskers.

If your rabbit moves their whiskers a lot, then they might be deaf.

Moreover, when rabbits hear something, their ears move in the direction of the sound to amplify it.

You can test out your rabbit’s hearing to see whether their ears react to various sounds.

However, bear in mind that this is not a reliable test of hearing if your rabbit lives with other rabbits.

This is because they might simply be moving their ears as a form of mirroring others.

For example, you can shake their food container. The sound should definitely result in a reaction if they can hear it.

If they don’t move or come towards the food, they are likely deaf.

Lastly, you can also test their hearing by observing their behavior. Deaf rabbits tend to be more aggressive than other rabbits.

This is because deaf rabbits can easily get startled or stressed since they cannot hear anything.

As a result, they are likely to move swiftly or make aggressive noises.

How to Care for a Deaf Blue-Eyed Rabbit

Now that you have conducted the hearing test on your rabbit don’t worry if you have found that they are deaf.

Caring for a deaf rabbit is not difficult.

Medical treatment options may also differ depending on the cause of deafness.

If it was caused through infection and not a hereditary defect, the chances are that you can get it treated.

You will need to treat them differently than other rabbits and provide them with special care and attention.

For example, you need to avoid certain acts that might startle them or cause them to become aggressive or fearful.

Domestic rabbits can easily adjust to their home environment. However, those out in the wild might struggle.

This is why you should try not to let your deaf rabbit out in the open in your backyard.

They can become easy targets for predators otherwise.

Even if you let them out, keep them under constant supervision. If you have other animals in the house that might attack your deaf rabbit, keep an eye out on them.

Final Words

Caring for a deaf rabbit is not an arduous task. It simply requires a bit more effort on your end.

We also recommend that you get in touch with a vet who will tell you more about your options.

The vet can conduct tests to check your bunny’s hearing and suggest treatments if any.

Moreover, they will also provide you with more guidance on how you can care for your furry friend.

Trust the process and be patient. Good luck!

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