Pluto Goes to Hospital: Our Journey with the BAER Hearing Test
As part of our ongoing passion for animal welfare and our cats' health and wellbeing, we recently took Pluto, our Maine Coon, to The University of Glasgow Small Animal Hospital for a Brainstem Auditory Evoked Response (BAER) test.
The BAER test is a non-invasive hearing assessment that measures electrical activity in the brain and ear. It’s a vital tool for detecting inherited or acquired deafness, not just in cats, but in other domestic animals too. In our efforts to better understand feline hearing, particularly in Maine Coons and British Shorthairs/Longhairs, this test plays a critical role.
Delighted to Confirm 'Normal' Hearing in All Our Cats
After thorough testing, we are thrilled to confirm that all our cats tested have 'normal' hearing. This news brings us immense joy, knowing that our feline family is not only happy but healthy as well. The results from the BAER test provide us with peace of mind and further affirm our commitment to ensuring the wellbeing of our cats.
Testing Across Three Generations
In this project, we tested three generations of our cats, creating a wide and diverse sample pool representing different genealogies. This comprehensive approach has helped us gain valuable insights into potential genetic influences on hearing health, allowing us to ensure that all our cats, regardless of lineage, are in excellent condition.
We were impressed by the professionalism and care shown by the Neurology Department at The University of Glasgow Small Animal Hospital. Pluto, along with our other cats and kittens, received so much attention and care during the visit. It's reassuring to know our fur family is in such capable hands!
This trip is just one part of our larger project aimed at improving the health and welfare of our cats. From hearing tests to general health checks, we are continually working to ensure the best possible care for all our feline companions.
If you’d like to learn more about our animal welfare program and the different health tests we conduct, feel free to visit our dedicated welfare page.
Thank you for joining us on this journey to enhance the lives of our cats and promote awareness of their health needs!
Special Thanks to The University of Glasgow Small Animal Hospital (SAH)
We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the Neurology Department at The University of Glasgow Small Animal Hospital. Their exceptional care and we are deeply grateful for their dedication.