MISSOULA, Mont. — Aural hematomas or ear hematomas occur can occur in both dogs and cats. Aural hematomas result from broken blood vessels, often from excessive head shaking and are similar to ...

Context Explanation

Join Brodie as he shares an emotional journey with his golden retriever, Luna, who recently developed an aural hematoma. Watch Luna's transformation as she dons colorful cones and a whimsical head ... An aural hematoma is a collection of blood, either fresh or clotted, within the pinna (ear flap). When a hematoma is present, the pinna will appear very thick and spongy.

Insight Material

What is aural hematoma? A n aural hematoma (Figure 1) is a blood-filled subcutaneous fluctuant swelling on the pinna formed when traumatic rupture of the capillaries and separation of the auricular cartilage and skin occurs. Aural hematomas aren’t dangerous, but they’re unsightly and can make your dog uncomfortable. We’re here to help you easily treat your dog’s aural hematoma at home. Additionally, we’ll explain when you need to go to the vet and what they can do to help your pup recover quickly.

Final Conclusion

Hematomas in the earflaps (aural hematomas) occur when head shaking breaks a blood vessel within the earflap. The earflap may partially or completely swell with blood. The swelling may be so large that the opening of the ear canal is occluded. Utilize this step-by-step guide on surgical treatment of aural hematoma in dogs to reduce the likelihood of complications, such as recurrence and infection. Aural hematomas seldom recur if they are properly treated and the underlying disease is appropriately addressed. This condition can be prevented by providing prompt attention to conditions that result in irritation of the ears.

Dog ear hematomas (also called auricular or aural hematomas) occur when blood vessels rupture inside the ear flap, or pinna. As blood accumulates between the skin and cartilage, the ear becomes swollen, warm, and often painful. This collection of blood forms what is known as an aural hematoma. Shaking their head too vigorously or persistently can put them at risk for an aural hematoma.