Ear Hematomas

Ear hematomas are a relatively common, yet frustrating medical problem seen in both dogs and cats. Hematomas are like a giant blood blister that forms between the skin and the cartilage on the inside of the ear flap. These swellings form when animals shake their heads or scratch their ears excessively. Problems that cause excessive head shaking or ear scratching are ear infections, ear mites, allergies or foreign bodies in the ear canal. Sometimes, both ear canals are perfectly normal and no cause can be identified.

There are numerous ways to treat an ear hematoma. Of the options, three are most feasible:

• Do nothing - The pet may be uncomfortable for several weeks. The ear flap may wrinkle considerably. Makes treating the ear canal difficult to impossible.

• Drain the swollen ear flap and bandage to the head - Hematomas treated this way almost always need repeated draining. The ear will be somewhat wrinkled once healed. It may, however, be the best choice for a debilitated animal that could not undergo surgery.

• Surgery - This is by far the best option, especially for large, heavy hematomas. It allows thorough cleaning of the ear canal and removal of the fluid in the ear flap. This method does not eliminate home care of the ear. In fact, considerable involvement of the owner is needed to ensure the wound heals well.

Home care after surgery:

• Keep the ear flap clean and dry, both top and bottom

• Treat inciting cause, (infection, mites…)

• If the ear is bandaged, check at least two times a day for odor, slipping, sores, discomfort ...

• Give all medications as directed.

• Bring in for frequent rechecks during the healing period.