Hematoma On A Dog’s Ear

If you’ve noticed a sudden, balloon-like swelling on your dog’s ear, it can be unsettling. This condition, called a hematoma, often needs veterinary attention to heal properly. While it might seem minor at first glance, a hematoma on a dog’s ear can cause your pet discomfort and lead to complications if not treated by a professional. Knowing what a hematoma on a dog’s ear looks like, how it develops, and how veterinarians manage it will help you make the best decision for your dog’s health. Below, we’ll walk you through everything you should know about this common condition and why prompt veterinary care matters.

 

 

Understanding A Hematoma On A Dog’s Ear

A hematoma on a dog’s ear happens when blood vessels within the ear flap (pinna) rupture, causing blood to collect between the skin and cartilage. The swelling often appears suddenly, making the ear look puffy, squishy, and misshapen. Hematomas can vary in size, from small lumps to large, heavy swellings that weigh the ear down. The affected area might feel soft and fluid-filled or firm if the blood has started to clot. Some dogs act completely normal aside from the visible swelling, while others show signs of discomfort, such as shaking their head, pawing at their ear, or whining. Hematomas most commonly occur in floppy-eared breeds like Cocker Spaniels and Basset Hounds, but any dog can develop one.

What Causes A Hematoma On A Dog’s Ear?

Several different issues can cause a hematoma on a dog’s ear. It’s important to understand the potential causes so you can help prevent future episodes.

Ear Infections and Allergies

When a dog’s ears are inflamed and itchy, they will often shake their head or scratch excessively. This repeated trauma can cause blood vessels in the ear to burst. Ear infections caused by bacteria, yeast, or mites can create intense irritation, leading to vigorous head shaking. Allergies to environmental triggers like pollen, dust mites, or certain foods may also cause persistent ear discomfort, making hematomas more likely.

Trauma or Injury

A direct injury to the ear, such as rough play, accidents, or fights with other animals, can result in a hematoma on a dog’s ear. Even seemingly harmless activities like digging or rolling around can sometimes lead to trauma if a dog vigorously flaps its ears.

Underlying Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions, such as blood clotting disorders, can make a dog more prone to hematomas. If your dog develops hematomas repeatedly without a clear cause, your veterinarian may recommend further testing to rule out underlying issues.

Symptoms of a Hematoma On A Dog’s Ear

Spotting the signs of a hematoma on a dog’s ear early allows you to get your pet the care they need without delay. Common symptoms include:

• Noticeable swelling on the ear flap
• Ear looks puffy, heavy, or distorted
• Fluid-filled, soft feeling under the skin
• Firm swelling if clotted
• Head shaking and frequent ear scratching
• Sensitivity or discomfort when touching the ear

If you notice any of these symptoms, call Dundee Veterinary Clinic at 734-529-2429 to schedule an appointment. Early treatment can reduce discomfort and speed up recovery.

Why a Hematoma On A Dog’s Ear Needs Veterinary Treatment

While a hematoma on a dog’s ear might seem like a problem that could heal naturally, professional treatment is usually necessary to achieve the best outcome. Left untreated, a hematoma can cause lasting damage to the ear’s structure and function.

Risks of Untreated Hematomas

Without treatment, the collected blood can clot and eventually be reabsorbed by the body. However, this process can take weeks and is often uncomfortable for the dog. As the hematoma resolves, scar tissue can form, leading to a thickened, wrinkled, or permanently deformed ear, sometimes called “cauliflower ear.” In addition to cosmetic changes, untreated hematomas can result in ongoing ear issues, such as reduced airflow, which can make dogs more prone to future infections.

How Veterinarians Treat a Hematoma On A Dog’s Ear

There are a few different approaches your veterinarian may use when treating a hematoma on a dog’s ear, depending on the size, severity, and underlying cause. Your vet will assess your dog’s hematoma and recommend the most effective treatment. Some common options include:

Surgical Drainage

In many cases, surgical intervention offers the best results. During surgery, your veterinarian will drain the blood from the hematoma and may place sutures to hold the skin and cartilage together to prevent fluid from re-accumulating. A small drain may also be placed temporarily to allow continued drainage. Surgical treatment provides the best chance for the ear to heal with minimal scarring and deformation.

Needle Aspiration

For smaller hematomas or in cases where surgery is not immediately possible, your veterinarian might attempt to drain the blood using a needle and syringe. While this procedure is less invasive, hematomas drained by aspiration alone tend to refill with fluid, so multiple treatments may be necessary.

Addressing Underlying Causes

Successfully treating a hematoma on a dog’s ear also involves managing the root cause. Your veterinarian will examine your dog’s ears for signs of infection, inflammation, or other contributing factors. Treatment may include antibiotics, antifungal medications, allergy management, or anti-inflammatory drugs to prevent recurrence.

Tips to Help Prevent a Hematoma On A Dog’s Ear

While not every case can be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your dog’s risk of developing a hematoma on their ear.

Routine Ear Care

Keeping your dog’s ears clean and dry plays an important role in preventing infections and inflammation. Use a veterinarian-recommended ear cleaner and check their ears regularly for signs of redness, odor, or discharge. If your dog has a history of ear infections or allergies, working with your veterinarian to create a long-term management plan can significantly lower the risk of a hematoma.

Minimize Trauma

If your dog enjoys activities that involve a lot of ear-flapping, such as digging or running through brush, keep an eye on them for signs of irritation afterward. Promptly addressing minor scratches or inflammation may prevent more serious problems from developing.

Manage Allergies and Skin Conditions

Since allergies often contribute to repeated ear issues, maintaining an allergy management plan tailored to your dog’s needs can prevent the cycle of head shaking and ear trauma.

When to Contact Dundee Veterinary Clinic About a Hematoma On Your Dog’s Ear

If you see swelling or unusual changes to your dog’s ear, the best course of action is to have them examined by your veterinarian. Waiting too long can result in more complicated treatment and a longer recovery time. Dundee Veterinary Clinic can help if you notice signs of a hematoma on a dog’s ear. Our experienced team can diagnose the issue, recommend the right treatment, and help your dog feel more comfortable as soon as possible. Call us today at 734-529-2429 to schedule an appointment and get your dog the care they deserve.