If your dog suddenly has a swollen, puffy ear that feels warm and soft—almost like a water balloon—you might be dealing with an ear hematoma. This condition isn’t just uncomfortable for your pet—it can be messy, painful, and lead to long-term issues if not treated promptly.
At Star of Texas Veterinary Hospital in Austin, we see ear hematomas regularly. Here’s what you need to know about why they happen, how to treat them, and how to keep them from coming back.
What Is an Ear Hematoma—and Why Does It Happen?
An ear hematoma (also called an aural hematoma) is a pocket of blood that forms between the layers of cartilage in your dog’s ear flap (pinna). It’s usually the result of trauma from vigorous head shaking or scratching, which causes tiny blood vessels in the ear to rupture.
This often starts with underlying irritation—commonly from:
- Ear infections
- Allergies (food or environmental)
- Ear mites
- Foxtails or other debris
Your dog may flap their head or scratch repeatedly, and before you know it, the ear starts to swell. If they hit it hard enough—or if pressure builds—the hematoma could even rupture, causing a spatter of blood across your walls or furniture. It can look alarming, but the condition itself is treatable and not life-threatening with veterinary care.
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What Does an Ear Hematoma Look and Feel Like?
You’ll typically notice:
- A squishy or firm swelling on the ear flap—often balloon-like
- Redness, heat, or bruising at the site
- Your dog whimpering, pulling away, or shaking their head persistently
- Increased sensitivity or pain when the ear is touched
Over time, if left untreated, the swelling may harden and become permanently misshapen—this is often called “cauliflower ear.”
What Happens If It’s Not Treated?
Ear hematomas rarely resolve neatly on their own. Without treatment, the blood may slowly reabsorb, but the ear can become scarred, thickened, and disfigured—and your dog remains uncomfortable in the meantime.
Worse, if the underlying cause—like infection or allergy—isn’t addressed, the hematoma can recur or lead to more serious complications, including chronic infections.
How Vets Diagnose and Treat Ear Hematomas
Diagnosis
Your veterinarian will:
- Perform a physical exam to evaluate the swelling
- Use an otoscope to check inside the ear for infections, mites, or debris
- Sometimes recommend aspiration (drawing out fluid with a needle) to confirm the diagnosis
We’ll also investigate and treat what’s causing the head shaking or scratching—which is critical for preventing recurrence.
Explore more about the condition from ACVS
Treatment Options
The right treatment depends on the size of the hematoma and what’s causing it.
- Surgical Repair
The most effective option for large or recurring hematomas. This involves:
- Draining the blood
- Removing clots
- Suturing the ear to prevent re-filling
- Addressing any infections or inflammation
- Needle Aspiration
For mild cases, your vet may drain the hematoma with a needle. However, this is often a temporary solution—hematomas frequently refill unless the root cause is treated. - Corticosteroid Injections
Small hematomas may respond to a steroid injection to reduce inflammation and promote reabsorption. This is less invasive but may require follow-up visits.
What Recovery Looks Like
Recovery usually takes about 2–3 weeks. Most dogs will go home with:
- An E-collar to prevent scratching
- Medication for pain and inflammation
- A follow-up plan to monitor healing
Some may benefit from a No-Flap™ Ear Wrap or similar bandage to reduce ear movement and promote comfort—especially in floppy-eared breeds.
Preventing Future Ear Hematomas
Prevention starts with addressing the cause of ear irritation. Here’s how to help protect your dog’s ears moving forward:
- Keep ears clean with vet-recommended solutions
- Dry ears thoroughly after swimming or bathing
- Use preventatives during foxtail season or when in tall grasses
- Watch for signs of infection or allergies (like excessive scratching or head shaking)
Learn how to clean your dog’s ears safely
When to Call the Vet
If you notice any of the following, schedule an appointment right away:
- A swollen or firm ear flap
- Ongoing head shaking or pawing at the ear
- Sensitivity, redness, or odor coming from the ear
- Visible discharge or signs of infection
Reach out to Star of Texas Veterinary Hospital if you’re concerned—ear issues can escalate quickly, and early treatment is always the best approach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can an ear hematoma heal on its own?
Sometimes, but it’s risky. It may take weeks, leave a permanent deformity, and your dog will be uncomfortable during the healing process.
Is surgery always necessary?
Not always. Small hematomas might respond to steroids or drainage, but large or recurring ones typically require surgery to prevent future problems.
What does ear hematoma treatment cost?
Costs can range from $200 for aspiration to $800 or more for surgery, depending on the size and complexity of the case.
Don’t Wait on Ear Swelling—We’re Here to Help
Ear hematomas are more than just a cosmetic issue—they’re painful, potentially messy, and often linked to bigger health problems like infections or allergies. Fortunately, with timely care, most dogs recover fully and comfortably.
If your dog has a swollen or sensitive ear, don’t wait. Schedule an appointment with Star of Texas Veterinary Hospital and let’s help your pup feel better—fast.
