How to Care for a Dog‘s Ear Hematoma318

An ear hematoma is a condition in which blood accumulates between the cartilage and skin of a dog's ear. This can happen due to a variety of reasons, including:
* Trauma to the ear (e.g., from head shaking, scratching, or a foreign object)
* Infection or inflammation of the ear
* Blood clotting disorders

Ear hematomas can be painful and can lead to further complications, such as infection or damage to the ear cartilage. Therefore, it is important to seek veterinary attention as soon as you notice any swelling or bruising in your dog's ear.

Symptoms of an Ear Hematoma

The most common symptom of an ear hematoma is swelling of the affected ear. The swelling may be localized to a specific area of the ear or may involve the entire ear flap. The ear may also be painful to the touch and your dog may be reluctant to have you touch it.

Other symptoms of an ear hematoma may include:* Bruising or discoloration of the ear
* Head shaking
* Scratching at the ear
* Discharge from the ear
* Lethargy or loss of appetite

Diagnosis of an Ear Hematoma

Your veterinarian will diagnose an ear hematoma based on a physical examination of your dog's ear. They will also ask you about your dog's history and symptoms. In some cases, your veterinarian may recommend additional tests, such as blood tests or X-rays, to rule out other conditions.

Treatment of an Ear Hematoma

The treatment for an ear hematoma will depend on the size and severity of the hematoma. In some cases, small hematomas may resolve on their own with rest and pain medication. However, most ear hematomas require surgical drainage.

During surgery, your veterinarian will make a small incision in the ear and drain the accumulated blood. They will then place a drain in the ear to prevent the hematoma from refilling. The drain will typically be left in place for 7-10 days.

After surgery, your dog will need to be restricted from activity for a period of time. This will help to prevent the hematoma from refilling and will allow the ear to heal properly.

2025-02-06

Previous：Dangerous Dog Breeds: A Comprehensive Guide

Next：Paw Pad Varieties in Dogs