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My stray cat has a head tilt. Is she deaf or has an ear infection?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | 4 lbs

We have taken in a stray kitty she's very skinny in the belly but eyes are clear and coat shiny...but she's walking with her head tilted to the left. She didn't respond at all when we ran the vacuum until it was next to her and then she just looked at it...could ahe be deaf

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on February 20th, 2018

A head tilt in a kitten often indicates a severe ear infection that affects the middle and inner ear. This could definitely cause her to go deaf in that one ear, but she wouldn't be expected to be completely deaf. However, it is suspicious that she didn't react to the vacuum. It is possible that she has a hereditary defect (more common in white cats) that is causing her to be deaf. In either case, it's best to have her evaluated by a veterinarian. They can help narrow-down the cause of this and ensure she gets the necessary treatment. I hope that helps and all is well with Kee Kee D.

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