A dog ear hematoma is a bump in the ear flop which is soft as well as swollen and occurs inside the ear of your dog. This mostly occurs when your dog is shaking its head incessantly or the ears are itching so hard that it scratches them. This may result in breaking of small blood vessels located in the ears and the blood accumulates beneath the skin leading to the puffiness of the ears and also resulting in pain.
Hematomas do cause pain but they are not life-threatening. They make your dog cramped. In case it is not treated, the swelling may increase or cause chronic issues with the ear. That is why it should be treated in a fast and gentle way.
This blog will give you an idea of what causes ear hematoma, how you can identify it, and what treatment works best. We will also post advice on how to take care of your dog at home and take care of its ears.
What Causes Ear Hematomas in Dogs?
Hematomas in the ears of the dog commonly occur when they shake their head so much or when they scratch their ears so harshly. This can cause bursting of small bllod vessels in ears flap due to which the blood can clog under the skin
The ear at this point appears swollen and is soft or warm.
Ear infection or allergy is primary reason of it. Both are known to make the ears of a dog itch and as such the dog scratches them or shakes the head. In some cases, it is possible to experience a hematoma due to a small wound as well as due to an accidental injury: playing roughly, bumping into something.
We should not just see the swelling but we should find the actual reason which is causing that. A vet may help to discover what is really happening and propose appropriate care.
Signs and Symptoms to Watch For
The case scenario is that you may spot a swelling of the ear flap of your dog, which means that it could have an ear hematoma. It can be puffy or soft or warm. The swelling might expand very fast and render the ear to appear thick or heavy.
Your dog will also exhibit painful conditions. They may even grunt as you touch their ear or even they can be avoided to be petted. or it can make your dog shake or scratch the ear more frequently than usual.
Such indications indicate that something is wrong. You should visit a vet so that your dog could receive the appropriate treatment. More pain or issues can be avoided by catching it early.
Vet Treatment Options
In case your dog develops an ear hematoma, a vet will most probably puncture it through use of a needle or drain it surgically. It is significant in two conditions: pain and release of pressure. In others, they will use stitches to keep the ear flat to avoid the reoccurrence of the fluid.
The cause of the hematoma is also treated by the vet. Where it is due to ear infection they may apply ear drops or antibiotics. In case it is allergies, then your dog may require allergy medicine.
One has to adhere to the direction of the vet. Treating him the right way will make him recover quicker and decrease the possibility of the hematoma reoccurring.
Home Care After Treatment
Once your dog has had vet treatment, you will have to take special care of him once he gets home. Make their ear dry and clean. Take the advice of the vet and take all the medicines issued by him.
Attempt to prevent scratching or shaking of head by your dog. You may require one that is soft collar or a cone. This covers the ears as they recover.
Be observant of your dog. Call your vet is the swelling recurs or the ear appears red or painful. The fantastic home caring makes your dog feel and recover quicker.
Can Ringworm Affect the Ears?
Yes, Dogs can develop ringworm in the ears. We might think it is worm infection but actually it is a fungal infection. It is capable of causing the ears to become itchy red or flaky. It might scratch or rub the ears and this may result in cuts or even hematoma in your dog.
Round, scaly spots or hair loss on and around the ears could be ringworm in your dog. It is a carrier and can be transmitted to other pets or human beings, thus the need to treat it in time.
Your veterinarian can administer antifungal drugs or topical ointments to prevent the lesion. To prevent spread, make the region where your dog stays clean.
Natural Remedies for Ringworm in Dogs
Mild ringworm can be treated with some natural remedies. Coconut oil is capable of calming the skin as well as being an antifungal agent. You may apply it by smoothing it on the infected spot. And another one is Apple cider vinegar diluted in the water. It can be used to dry the infection.
Keep washing the bedding, toys and areas of the dog frequently. Ringworm is transmitted using hair and skin flakes.
But do not forget that natural is not everything. There are other infections that require more medication. Never use treatment without any vet advice at home. They will inform you which is safe and which one is not.
Prevention Tips
Clean the ears of your dog to avoid ear hematoma and ringworm. Swab the ears using soft cloth and a cleaner recommended by a vet.
Manage allergies and treat any infection of the ear early. Your dog scratching or shaking a lot of its head should visit your vet.
In the case of ringworm, clean the space of your dog regularly. Wash their beds and their toys frequently. Do not allow your dog to play with diseased ones.
Look out on the onsets such as red spots, swellings or scratching. Small problems can be prevented before they develop into big problems. The surest technique to avoid trouble is by keeping your pet dog clean and healthy.
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