1. Confirm with your veterinarian that your cat or dog really has hearing loss. If your animal is young, make sure the underlying cause is identified.

2. Adjust your communication. At feeding time,  flick an overhead light on and off 2 or 3 times and/or tap your foot on the floor to call the animal. Your animal can feel the vibrations if they relatively close  . If your animal is on another floor of the house, bang your hand on the stairs or railing.   Develop a consistent communication pattern.

3.  Deaf animals are startled easily, so gently pat the surface next to where your animal is sleeping if you need to wake them up.   Flicking the lights may also help wake the animal from a nap.

4. When your animal is looking directly at you, move your hands in a “come here” motion and pat the floor to call him. Most dogs will come and cats can’t resist a good petting and will come when summoned.  Be consistent with this communication and practice it often. Very soon, your animal will react every time they see your  “come here” sign language.

5. Make time EVERY day to pet, cuddle and play with your animal.  Hearing-impaired animals need company.  The warmth of your hands is soothing to them in a silent world.
Remember that deaf dogs cannot hear therefore they rely on your facial expression.  Make sure to 'smile' a lot.  When your dog is good or does something correctly 'smile' and give your deaf dog a 'thumbs up' sign or  a congratulations by pretending to clap your hands.

6. Recognize that your animal might need a companion.  Deafness increases the level of loneliness for any animal or person. If you feel your animal is lonely, consider getting a companion.  BUT carefully screen any potential animals.  You need to make sure this new friend is 'gentle' and not aggressive. And make sure it is not the type of animal who tries to escape or their new friend might unknowingly encourage their deaf friend to join their escape attempts.

7. NEVER let your deaf cat outside and never let your deaf dog out in an unfenced area.  They cannot hear cars, mowers, aggressive dogs or potential threats. It is NOT safe for a hearing-impaired animal to be outside unattended.

8.  NEVER burn candles.  These might be knocked over or the animal's fur might brush against them and catch on fire.   Burning a candle is  not safe  around any animals or young children and they are not worth jeopardizing the safety of your family and your home.