Ear Hematomas in Dogs and Cats: What Causes a Swollen Ear Flap?
If your dog or cat suddenly has an ear flap that looks puffy, thick, or almost balloon-like, an ear hematoma could be the cause. Also called an aural hematoma, this condition occurs when blood collects within the ear flap. Because ear hematomas can be uncomfortable and often signal an underlying ear problem, it’s important to have them checked promptly. At BEEVET Animal Hospital in Austin, our veterinary team can determine the cause of the swelling and recommend appropriate treatment.
What Is an Ear Hematoma?
An ear hematoma is a pocket of blood that forms between the skin and cartilage of the pinna, or external ear flap. Small blood vessels in the ear can rupture, which allows blood to accumulate in this space.
The swelling may affect only part of the ear flap, or involve most of it. Depending on its size and severity, a hematoma may make the ear look or feel:
- Puffy or swollen
- Thick and spongy
- Warm to the touch
- Red or inflamed
- Tender or painful
You may also notice your pet repeatedly scratching their ear or shaking their head. These behaviors can offer an important clue about why the hematoma developed in the first place.
What Causes Ear Hematomas in Dogs and Cats?
Ear hematomas often result from vigorous head shaking or scratching. When an ear is itchy, painful, or irritated, a pet may shake or scratch hard enough to damage the small blood vessels within the ear flap.
Several problems can trigger this irritation, including:
- Ear infections caused by bacteria or yeast
- Allergies that cause inflammation and itching
- Ear mites or other parasites
- Foreign material in the ear canal, such as plant debris
- Trauma to the ear
Less commonly, bleeding or clotting disorders may contribute to hematoma formation. Because there are several possible causes, simply addressing the swelling isn’t enough. Our veterinarians will also look for the underlying problem that prompted your pet to scratch or shake their head. Treating that condition is an important part of helping prevent another hematoma from developing.
Does an Ear Hematoma Need Veterinary Treatment?
Although the body may eventually reabsorb the blood in some untreated hematomas, waiting isn’t recommended. Ear hematomas can be painful, and ongoing inflammation can cause the ear flap to thicken, scar, and become permanently wrinkled or misshapen.
Prompt veterinary care can relieve discomfort, reduce swelling, and identify the condition causing it. It can also reduce the risk of additional damage to the ear.
How Are Ear Hematomas Treated?
Treatment depends on factors such as the hematoma’s size, how long it has been present, and your pet’s overall condition. Your veterinarian may recommend draining the accumulated fluid, using medications to control inflammation, or performing a surgical procedure to drain the hematoma and help prevent the pocket from filling again.
Just as importantly, treatment may include addressing an ear infection, allergies, parasites, or another underlying problem. Your pet may also need follow-up visits so the veterinary team can monitor healing, and make sure the original ear condition has resolved.
Have Your Pet’s Swollen Ear Checked
If your dog’s or cat’s ear flap suddenly becomes swollen, don’t wait for it to resolve on its own. BEEVET Animal Hospital provides compassionate veterinary care in a Fear Free Certified and Cat Friendly Practice designed to make visits more comfortable for pets and their people.
Call us at (512) 263-9292 to book an appointment and have your pet’s ear evaluated.