An animal without auditory function is at a disadvantage that can range from trivial to extreme. The dog or cat with unilateral deafness experiences difficulty localizing the source of sound but quickly learns to compensate. On the other hand, a bilaterally deaf animal is unable to anticipate dangers such as motor vehicles or predators and may, as a result, fall victim to injury or death. Diminished auditory function can likewise be merely inconvenient or hazardous. The causes of hearing loss and deafness are varied, and the implications for management, future breeding, and management vary accordingly.