One day your dog’s ears look normal. The next day, one ear is swollen like a balloon. This sudden puffiness can be scary—but is it an emergency? That soft, puffy swelling is likely a hematoma, and while it’s not always life-threatening, it still needs quick attention.
In this article, we’ll explain what a dog ear hematoma is, what causes it, whether it’s an emergency, and how you should respond if it happens to your pet.
Is a Dog Ear Hematoma an Emergency?
A dog ear hematoma is usually not a life-threatening emergency, but it does require prompt veterinary care to prevent pain, infection, and long-term damage. The sooner it’s treated, the better your dog’s chances of a smooth recovery and avoiding ear deformities.
If your dog is shaking their head, in visible pain, or the ear swells suddenly, it’s best to visit a 24 hour emergency vet or call your regular vet immediately.
What Is a Dog Ear Hematoma?
A hematoma is a pocket of blood that collects under the skin. In dogs, it often happens in the ear flap (also called the pinna), causing it to swell up like a pillow or balloon. This condition is also known as an aural hematoma.
It can affect one or both ears, but most often just one. The swelling can range from small to very large, and it may feel soft, warm, or squishy.
What Causes an Ear Hematoma in Dogs?
Most ear hematomas in dogs are caused by trauma—usually from excessive head shaking or scratching. These behaviors often result from:
- Ear infections
- Ear mites
- Allergies
- Foreign objects in the ear
- Skin conditions like dermatitis
When a dog shakes their head hard or scratches too much, small blood vessels inside the ear can burst. Blood leaks out and pools under the skin, forming a hematoma.
Symptoms of a Dog Ear Hematoma
Here are common signs that your dog might have an ear hematoma:
- One ear appears swollen or puffed up
- The ear flap feels soft or squishy
- Dog keeps shaking head or scratching at the ear
- Pain when touching the ear
- Redness or warmth in the swollen area
If your dog has any of these signs, especially with sudden swelling, contact an emergency animal hospital to get it checked.
Can a Dog Ear Hematoma Heal on Its Own?
Sometimes small hematomas may shrink over time, but most do not heal properly without treatment. When left untreated, the ear can become permanently deformed—what’s often called a “cauliflower ear.” This is both uncomfortable and irreversible.
Even if the swelling goes down, the root cause—like an infection or allergy—will still be there. This is why vet care is so important.
When Is a Dog Ear Hematoma an Emergency?
While it’s not usually a true emergency, you should treat it as an urgent issue if:
- The ear swells suddenly
- Your dog is in visible pain
- There’s bleeding, pus, or signs of infection
- Your dog won’t eat, rest, or seems distressed
If you’re unsure whether it’s serious, it’s best to contact a 24 hour emergency vet clinic for advice.
How Vets Treat Ear Hematomas
Treatment depends on the size and severity of the hematoma, but common options include:
1. Draining the Hematoma
The vet may use a needle to remove the blood. This can give temporary relief, but without treating the cause (like infection), the swelling may return.
2. Surgery
For larger hematomas or repeat cases, surgery is often the best option. The vet makes a small incision, drains the blood, and stitches the ear to help it heal flat. This is the most effective long-term solution.
3. Treating the Underlying Cause
Antibiotics, ear cleaning, allergy treatment, or mite medication may be prescribed depending on what caused the trauma in the first place.
Cost of Dog Ear Hematoma Treatment in the UK
Treatment costs can vary, especially between draining vs. surgery. Here’s a general breakdown for UK pet owners:
| Treatment | Estimated Cost (UK) |
|---|---|
| Vet consultation | £50 – £150 |
| Ear drainage (aspiration) | £100 – £250 |
| Ear hematoma surgery | £400 – £900 |
| Medication (antibiotics, anti-inflammatory) | £30 – £100 |
To get a real-time quote or emergency help, use 24houremergencyvet.com to locate your nearest open clinic.
What You Shouldn’t Do at Home
When your dog has a swollen ear, you may be tempted to poke or press it—but don’t. Here’s what not to do:
- Don’t try to drain it yourself—this can cause infection
- Don’t apply ointments unless directed by a vet
- Don’t ignore it—untreated hematomas can lead to permanent ear damage
It’s best to keep your dog calm, avoid touching the ear, and get to a 24 hour vet as soon as possible.
Can Hematomas Come Back?
Yes, especially if the underlying problem isn’t fixed. Dogs with ear infections, allergies, or chronic itching are more likely to get repeat hematomas.
That’s why it’s not enough to just drain the ear—you must also treat the root cause. Follow-up care is key to preventing repeat issues.
How to Prevent Dog Ear Hematomas
While not all cases can be avoided, these steps can help reduce your dog’s risk:
- Clean your dog’s ears regularly
- Treat ear infections and mites early
- Address allergies with vet guidance
- Use soft collars instead of head-shaking triggers
- Watch for signs of constant scratching or discomfort
Prevention can save you stress, money, and a trip to the emergency vet.
When in Doubt, Act Quickly
Even though a hematoma may not seem urgent, it’s always best to get it looked at quickly. Fast treatment leads to better healing and less chance of complications.
Not sure where to go? Use 24houremergencyvet.com to find a trusted emergency vet clinic near you, available 24/7.
Conclusion
A dog ear hematoma might not be life-threatening, but it should never be ignored. Quick action helps reduce pain, avoid ear deformities, and treat the cause behind the swelling. Whether it’s an infection, allergies, or injury, your dog deserves fast, expert care.
Need urgent help? Visit 24houremergencyvet.com now to locate a 24 hour emergency vet near you—so your dog can get the care they need, fast.