If your cat has an ear hematoma you might wonder how to help. Today, our Riverside County vet team shares more about what causes aural hematomas in cats, symptoms, and treatment options.
A hematoma is a pocket of blood that forms within an organ or tissue, also known as a 'blood blister.' Aural (ear) hematomas form between the skin and cartilage of your cat's ear flap and can range in size and location. They are uncommon in cats, which makes it even more important for pet parents to know what to look for and what to do if their cat develops an ear hematoma.
What causes ear hematomas in cats?
Ear hematomas are most commonly caused by trauma or injury. When the small blood vessels in the cat's ear flap are damaged, they rupture and leak internally, creating a blood-filled swelling or pocket. Some of the most common causes of cat ear hematomas include:
- Your kitty scratching their ears or shaking their heads due to:
- ear infection
- ear mites
- skin allergies
- foreign object in the ear canal
- Scratches or bites (e.g. sharp thorns, fights with other cats)
- Underlying health issues
Signs of Ear Hematomas in Cats
If your pet has an ear hematoma, the most common symptom is swelling in the ear. If it is large enough, the ear flap will become swollen and may droop due to its weight.
The swelling may feel tight or squishy to the touch, but be careful; if the area is tender, your cat will most likely express their displeasure! Aside from changes in appearance, monitor your cat's behavior. If their ear is irritated or tender, they may groom it more frequently than usual or avoid contact.
Diagnosis & treatment of Ear Hematomas in Cats
Aside from the injury, your veterinarian will check your cat's ears for mites or infections, which are common causes of hematomas, especially if your pet is prone to infections. Depending on the circumstances, your veterinarian may collect a sample with a needle to determine the nature of the condition.
Treatment
Surgery is the most frequently recommended treatment for ear hematomas. If the hematoma in your cat's ear is small and your pet cannot be safely sedated, your veterinarian may be able to drain the site using a needle. While this procedure is appropriate for some hematomas, it is not optimal, and the problem is likely to reoccur. Aural hematoma surgery provides a permanent solution to your pet's problem, and surgical removal of hematomas can reduce scarring.
Your veterinarian will also treat the underlying cause of the hematoma (infection, allergy).
Aural Hematoma Surgery for Cats
The veterinarian will make a small surgical incision in the ear flap to drain the blood pocket. Once cleared, your veterinarian will use tiny sutures to close the pocket and prevent further blood or infection buildup. The vet or vet surgeon will bandage the ear to prevent blood from accumulating there. Contact your veterinarian directly for an estimate of the cost of cat aural hematoma surgery.
What happens if you leave a cat's ear hematoma untreated?
If left untreated, an ear hematoma will heal on its own, but your cat will be uncomfortable for several weeks. Both sides of the ear will frequently develop thick, wrinkled scar tissue, resulting in an unnatural appearance and sensation.
Recovery from Aural Hematoma Surgery
After ear hematoma surgery, your cat may experience some tenderness or discomfort for a few days, but your vet is sure to provide medications to address pain and prevent infection and inflammation.
Your cat will need to wear an Elizabethan collar to avoid scratching the surgical site and causing inflammation, bleeding, pulled stitches, or infection.
Your veterinarian will give you detailed instructions and advice on how to care for your feline companion at home while they recover from surgery, as well as when to return for follow-up visits and stitches removal.