In this article, we’ll look at what a hematoma of the ear in dogs is, what signs and symptoms to watch for, and potential causes, and treatments for this condition. We’ll also discuss preventative measures you can take to keep your dog from developing a hematoma of the ear.
It’s important to be aware of this condition as it is very painful for your dog and can require medical attention. Knowing the signs, causes, and treatments can help you deal with an ear hematoma quickly and effectively before serious problems arise!
What is an Ear Hematoma?
Auricular or aural hematomas, commonly known as ear hematomas in dogs, are blood blister-like masses between the ear tissues in the flaps which can cause partial or complete swelling. Hematomas usually only happen in one ear but they may also happen in both.
It can look like they are ready to pop, but they won’t and your dog will not thank you for trying! Just how painful ear hematomas are for dogs vary, but it would appear that some are hardly noticeable, while others can be extremely painful, depending on the size and position of them
Hematomas have been found to contain eosinophils and mast cells, which suggests the blood blister may be part of an allergic reaction. Indeed, allergies are thought to be one of the primary causes, as will be explored later.
Signs & symptoms of ear hematomas in dogs
An ear hematoma is often identified by an outwardly visible lump or pocket of fluids, causing the ear to look thicker and take on a “cauliflower ear” appearance. Moreover, the swelling may be firm or soft, depending on the severity of the hematoma.
Be on the lookout for these symptoms:
- All or part of the ear flap filled with a mass of blood
- Itching
- Ear-scratching
- Head-shaking
- Tilting of the head sideways
These symptoms, which are associated with an aural hematoma in dogs, may also be indicative of an underlying condition that needs to be diagnosed and treated.
If you observe your dog displaying any of these symptoms, take it to the vet right away. Figuring out the best course of treatment for this painful condition is critical.
Causes of dog ear hematomas
Aggressive head-shaking and/or scratching can lead to aural hematoma in dogs.
The pinna, or outer ear flap, is very delicate and can be easily damaged if injured, resulting in broken blood vessels. Ear cartilage swells quickly when it is filled with blood and fluid, creating a rounded protrusion on the dog’s ear resembling a balloon.
Bloodhounds and other breeds with larger ear flaps are more prone to developing ear hematomas due to their ears slapping against their skull while they shake their head.
What was the cause of the head-shaking and scratching that ultimately caused the hematoma to form?
Most aural hematomas are caused by a yeast infection, bacteria, or allergies. However, there are other potential causes, including:
- Blood-clotting disorder
- Immune disorder
- Skin diseases
- A foreign body lodged in the ear
- Trauma to the pinna (such as a bite to the ear)
- Ear mites (very rare in dogs)
Naturally, dog breeds that are more prone to allergic skin diseases are more likely to suffer a heamatoma
Diagnosing ear hematomas in dogs
A veterinarian can easily identify a hematoma from a physical examination and make a diagnosis.
Knowing what caused the hematoma is essential in deciding the right treatment. So after the physical exam, will need need to investigate the underlying cause of the head-shaking and/or scratching.
The initial checkup may involve any of the following tests:
- Needle aspiration, to confirm that the fluid in the pocket is blood.
- Routine blood work, to check whether there are any blood-disorders
- Urine test, to check for other markers of infection
- An ear examination is needed to check for signs of infection, parasites, or objects lodged in the canal. This exam consists of collecting a sample from the ear canal and examining it under a microscope to look for bacteria and yeast (cytology).
- Food allergy testing, which can help determine if certain foods are causing discomfort, is done through skin tests. Discovering the allergen may require experimentation; it’s complicated and not just a matter of looking at samples through a microscope. Further allergy tests may need to be conducted.
What is the Treatment for ear hematoma in Dogs?
It’s possible that a small aural haematoma may not require treatment and could resolve on its own over time. Nonetheless, they should be seen by a vet.
To avoid another hematoma from forming, your vet will likely first address the underlying cause before treating the existing hematoma on your pet’s ear.
When it comes to caring for your pet, many veterinarians suggest conservative approaches such as warm compresses, anti-inflammatories, and other pain medications. In addition, other treatment options may be considered, including:
Needle aspiration
Insertion of a slender needle into the hematoma to create a drainage hole to extricate the liquid is a straightforward and moderately priced treatment.
In order to reduce inflammation, swelling, and itchy skin in the ear, a steroid may be injected along with medicine to battle infection. The procedure will be repeated again one week later.
A drain inside the ear
For bigger breeds, inserting a drain in the ear flap could be viable if the size of the ear allows it and if the dog lets you. Nonetheless, drains are infrequently utilized to cure hematomas.
A drain allows for a prolonged draining of the fluid to occur over a period of at least seven days, rather than the commonly observed quick refilling from aspiration.
Surgery
General anesthesia must be used for surgical repair, which is the most effective treatment, but due to the need for anesthesia, only done in more severe cases.
A tiny cut is made in the affected ear to release fluid and blood clots.
The veterinarian will then stitch together two layers of cartilage in the ear flap, allowing an incision to remain open for drainage. This incision will heal on its own eventually.
To protect the blood vessels, larger-eared dogs may need to have their ears secured to the head with a bandage after the surgery.
The stitches are typically kept for several weeks with the wound left open. So, your dog will likely need to wear a cone for a period of time to prevent scratching near the area of operation.
Although this is a minor procedure, all surgical operations and usage of general anesthesia can have potential risks and possible side effects; it’s vital to be mindful of this.
Recovery after treatment for an ear hematoma
If needle aspiration is used to treat the hematoma, your veterinarian will provide medication and home care advice.
After surgical treatment, you will be provided with detailed postoperative care instructions:
- The ear canal should be cleaned, dried, and treated with the correct medication.
- Cleaning and massaging the incision to remove any fluid buildup after surgery.
- Have your dog wear a cone until their stitches have been removed and the hematoma has healed completely.
It’s essential to provide attentive aftercare and monitoring to keep the other ear from getting a hematoma or having a recurrence.
The swelling usually goes down eventually, but the ear may end up looking thicker and more like a cauliflower where a hematoma was present.
What happens if a dog’s ear hematoma remains untreated?
A hematoma can be absorbed by a dog’s body but the process is slow and painful; treating the ear hematoma in time will provide relief from this pain.
Not treating it in time will cause significant scar tissue leading to permanent damage such as a distorted, cauliflower-shaped ear, and can lead to further complications for your pup.
Inflamed tissues from a hematoma can obstruct your dog’s ear passage, thus hindering you from treating any possible ear infections that may occur.
If left untreated, hematomas can recur and the swelling may return at any time.
Taking a hands-off approach can often lead to some unfortunate cosmetic results. As the clot in an ear flap heals and reduces in size, scar tissue often forms, making the affected lobe thicker, wrinkled, and sometimes entirely different from its unclotted twin. This is often termed “cauliflower ear”
Is there a cure for the causes of ear hematoma in dogs?
An ear hematoma is usually the result of another issue. So to cure the hematoma, the root cause must be addressed. As mentioned above, these are usually ear infections or allergies.
Treatments are available for both ear infections and ear mites, while allergies can be managed but there is no cure.
If your dog is prone to allergic skin disease, they are typically more prone to this affliction as are dogs with heavy ear flaps such as Bloodhounds and Bassets
Preventing ear hematomas in dogs
To prevent an ear hematoma from developing, you need to be aware of and treat, the underlying problems that cause head-shaking/itching to reduce the risk of your dog developing an ear hematoma.
Are dog ear hematomas contagious?
A hematoma itself will not spread to other people or animals. Nevertheless, the cause of the ear hematoma can in some cases be contagious. For example, ear mites, which cause itching and lead to swelling of the ear, can be spread among animals.
Although humans are rarely affected by ear mites, it is possible for a person to develop a mild skin rash on their hands, arms, or legs if exposed.
What is the cost of treating an ear hematoma in dogs?
The cost of treating an ear hematoma can vary based on factors like the severity of the hematoma, your vet’s fees, required tests, and location—as urban areas usually have a higher cost of living.
In addition to the need for anesthetic drugs, use of the operating room, and multiple medical personnel, surgery may incur higher costs. Before considering this option for your dog, your veterinarian may request blood work in order to assess its health, further increasing the cost
In some cases, draining an ear hematoma can be done in a veterinary clinic on an outpatient basis with only local anesthesia. But costlier treatments are needed for serious cases. Additionally, if the hematoma is substantial, it might be best to fully anesthetize the dog prior to treatment as draining the wound can cause discomfort.
Including lab tests, pain medication, and post-treatment checkups, the total cost of treating ear hematomas can range from £200 to several thousand.
Conclusion
Hematoma of the Ear is a condition that can be painful and cause lasting damage if left untreated. Fortunately, with proper veterinary care, most hematomas can be managed successfully so that your dog can live a long and happy life.
It’s important to watch for signs of Hematoma in dogs early on and always keep up with regular check ups as part of their regular pet care routine. If you suspect your dog may have Hematoma or have any questions or concerns, contact your vet right away. With timely treatment, your furry friend will soon be back to their happy, tail-wagging self!