Certain dog and cat breeds are predisposed to inherited deafness linked to extreme white coat pigmentation, raising breeding ethics questions.
Deaf dogs and cats can live full lives but face increased risks from traffic and difficulty communicating. Bilateral deafness requires modified training approaches and management. Breeding from animals known to carry deafness-linked genetics when alternatives exist perpetuates preventable disability. Responsible breeders screen for deafness and avoid breeding affected animals, reducing the burden of inherited disability.