White cats with blue eyes have a greater chance of being born deaf. A gene associated with a white coat and blue iris can lead to deafness, particularly in breeds like Maine Coons .

Not all white cats are affected, although. “The risk is highest in white cats with blue eyes,” Dr. Smith notes. “White cats with one blue eye may be deaf in only one ear, while those with ...

These cats look white as a result of their skin and fur having no pigmentation. The gene that causes a white coat and blue eyes can also be responsible for congenital deafness, though not all ...