What They Are and Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Treat Them
If you’ve ever noticed your dog suddenly shaking their head a lot or scratching at their ear, and then saw that one of their ear flaps looks swollen or puffy — chances are, they might have an aural hematoma.
What Is an Aural Hematoma?
An aural hematoma is essentially a blood blister that forms inside your dog’s ear flap (the “pinna”). It happens when small blood vessels inside the ear burst — often due to vigorous head shaking, scratching, or trauma. The space between the ear’s skin and cartilage fills with blood, causing that soft, balloon-like swelling you can feel or see.
What Causes It?
Aural hematomas don’t just appear out of nowhere — they’re usually a symptom of an underlying problem, such as:
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Ear infections (common in dogs with floppy ears)
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Allergies
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Ear mites or parasites
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Skin conditions that make the ears itchy
When your dog shakes or scratches excessively, those delicate blood vessels in the ear can rupture — leading to the hematoma.
What Happens If It’s Not Treated?
Without treatment, the body may eventually reabsorb the blood, but the ear often heals with scarring and deformation — sometimes called a “cauliflower ear.” This can be painful and permanent. Plus, the underlying cause (like an ear infection) will still need attention.
How Is It Treated?
Treatment depends on the size of the hematoma and what’s causing it. Your veterinarian may:
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Drain the fluid and apply a compress or bandage
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Recommend surgical correction to prevent recurrence
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Treat the root cause (infection, mites, allergies, etc.)
Prompt treatment helps relieve discomfort, prevents scarring, and keeps your dog’s ear healthy.
When to Call Animal Works
If your primary veterinarian has diagnosed an aural hematoma and recommends surgery — don’t wait. These swellings can worsen quickly, and prompt care helps your dog heal faster and more comfortably.
👉 Call Animal Works today to schedule your pet’s surgical appointment. Our team will provide gentle, expert care to treat the hematoma and help your dog get back to feeling great — ear flaps and all!