A hematoma on a dog’s ear can appear suddenly and cause concern for any pet owner. One day your dog’s ears look perfectly normal—then suddenly, one ear is swollen, puffy, and tender to the touch. If your dog has been shaking their head or scratching their ears more than usual, you may be looking at the cause right in front of you. While a hematoma may not be life-threatening, it does require prompt veterinary attention to prevent pain and avoid complications. In this blog, we’ll walk through what a hematoma on a dog’s ear is, why it happens, what treatment involves, and why it’s important to contact your veterinarian. If you notice signs of a hematoma on your dog’s ear, we encourage you to call Mills Animal Hospital in Marietta, GA at (770) 988-6698.
What Is a Hematoma on a Dog’s Ear?
A hematoma on a dog’s ear—also known as an aural hematoma—develops when blood vessels inside the ear flap break and leak under the skin, forming a pocket of blood. This usually occurs between the skin and cartilage of the pinna, or ear flap. The result is a noticeable swelling that may feel soft, firm, or fluid-filled depending on the stage of the hematoma.
Common Causes and Contributing Factors
Hematomas on a dog’s ear are often caused by trauma, especially from repeated head shaking or ear scratching. If your dog has an ear infection, ear mites, or allergies that cause ear irritation, the risk of developing a hematoma increases. Dogs with floppy ears and those prone to chronic ear issues are especially susceptible.
Why Veterinary Attention Matters
It’s important not to ignore a hematoma on your dog’s ear. While it may seem like a minor issue, the pressure buildup and inflammation can cause discomfort. If untreated, the hematoma can harden or scar, permanently altering the shape of the ear.
What Causes Hematomas on a Dog’s Ear?
Several factors can lead to a hematoma on a dog’s ear. Understanding these causes can help you identify and address underlying issues that may have triggered the hematoma in the first place.
Repeated Head Shaking or Ear Scratching
The most common cause of a hematoma on a dog’s ear is frequent head shaking or vigorous ear scratching. This behavior can rupture small blood vessels inside the ear, leading to the formation of a hematoma. Head shaking is often a response to ear discomfort caused by infection, inflammation, parasites, or allergies.
Underlying Ear Infections
Ear infections are a frequent trigger for ear scratching and shaking. Dogs with bacterial or yeast infections in the ear canal may exhibit discomfort that leads to trauma of the ear flap. If the infection goes untreated, not only can the hematoma worsen, but the root cause will remain unresolved.
Allergies and Skin Irritation
Dogs with environmental or food allergies often experience chronic inflammation that affects their skin and ears. Allergic reactions can cause itchiness, prompting dogs to rub or scratch their ears excessively. This repeated trauma can create the perfect conditions for a hematoma to form.
Parasites Like Ear Mites
Ear mites are microscopic parasites that live in the ear canal. They cause intense itching and irritation, especially in puppies and younger dogs. Constant scratching from ear mites can lead to hematomas on a dog’s ear, particularly if infestations are left untreated.
Injuries and Trauma
Blunt trauma to the ear, such as a bump during rough play or getting the ear caught on a sharp object, can also result in a hematoma. Even a sudden impact while running through dense underbrush can rupture a blood vessel and lead to swelling.
How to Identify a Hematoma on Your Dog’s Ear
Visible Swelling and Ear Changes
Hematomas on a dog’s ear usually appear quickly and are hard to miss. You may notice a sudden swelling or puffiness in one ear flap. The ear might feel squishy, firm, or warm to the touch, and your dog may show signs of discomfort when you examine it.
Behavioral Signs of Discomfort
In some cases, your dog may tilt their head or carry the affected ear lower than usual. They may also whimper, paw at their ear, or shake their head repeatedly. The skin over the hematoma might appear red or irritated, especially if there’s an underlying infection.
When to Contact Your Veterinarian
Because these symptoms often overlap with other ear issues, it’s best to schedule an exam at Mills Animal Hospital as soon as you notice any changes. Your veterinarian can confirm whether the swelling is due to a hematoma and evaluate for other conditions that may have triggered it.
How a Hematoma on a Dog’s Ear Is Treated
Veterinary treatment for a hematoma on a dog’s ear focuses on relieving pressure, managing discomfort, and addressing the underlying cause. Your veterinarian will assess the severity of the hematoma and recommend a treatment plan based on your dog’s specific needs.
Drainage and Surgery
In many cases, your veterinarian may need to drain the hematoma. This process typically involves making a small incision or inserting a needle to remove the accumulated blood. While this can provide immediate relief, hematomas tend to refill unless the underlying issue is also addressed.
Surgical treatment is often the most effective way to resolve a hematoma on a dog’s ear. The procedure involves draining the blood and placing sutures through the ear flap to prevent fluid from reaccumulating. Your veterinarian may also place a drain to allow any remaining fluid to escape during recovery. Surgery helps maintain the ear’s natural shape and reduces the risk of permanent disfigurement. Dogs typically wear an e-collar during recovery to prevent scratching and shaking, which could interfere with healing.
Treating the Underlying Condition
To prevent a recurrence, your veterinarian will examine your dog for infections, parasites, or allergies that may have contributed to the hematoma. Treating these conditions is a key part of the recovery process. If the underlying cause isn’t addressed, another hematoma may develop, even after treatment.
Can a Hematoma on a Dog’s Ear Heal Without Treatment?
While small hematomas may appear to improve on their own, most will not fully resolve without veterinary care. Over time, the blood may reabsorb, but this process can take weeks or longer. As the hematoma hardens and scars, the ear flap may become thickened or misshapen—an outcome known as “cauliflower ear.”
In addition to cosmetic changes, untreated hematomas can cause long-term discomfort and lead to chronic inflammation or infection. Prompt treatment offers the best outcome and keeps your dog comfortable throughout recovery. If you think your dog may have a hematoma on their ear, call Mills Animal Hospital at (770) 988-6698 to schedule an exam.
What to Expect After Treatment for a Hematoma on a Dog’s Ear
Recovery from a hematoma on a dog’s ear typically takes a few weeks, depending on the treatment method and the severity of the condition. Your veterinarian will provide detailed instructions for at-home care, which may include medications, ear cleaning, and activity restrictions.
Follow Up Appointments and Post-Op Care
Your dog may need follow-up appointments to monitor healing and ensure the hematoma does not return. If your dog had surgery, the sutures or drains may need to be removed once healing has progressed. To support recovery, it’s important to prevent scratching, head shaking, and exposure to allergens or irritants. Your veterinarian can help guide you through this process and recommend steps to reduce the risk of future hematomas.
Prompt Treatment Leads to a Better Outcome
A hematoma on a dog’s ear may not seem urgent at first glance, but it can quickly become uncomfortable or lead to long-term damage without timely care. If your dog has a swollen ear flap, acts restless, or keeps scratching at their ears, contact your veterinarian without delay. The team at Mills Animal Hospital in Marietta is here to help you manage conditions like hematomas on your dog’s ear with compassion and skill. Call us today at (770) 988-6698 to schedule your dog’s appointment.