Does your dog scratch their ears and shake their head a lot? If so, they may have a hematoma. The best course of action is to make an appointment with their veterinarian to get it checked out. Hematomas are small, blood-filled blisters. They can form anywhere on an animal, including their internal organs, but most commonly appear on earflaps. Here’s what you should know about hematomas.

A Guide to Hematomas

What Causes Hematomas?

Hematomas form in delicate ears when frequently shaken or scratched. Your dog is at risk if they’re prone to ear infections and ear mites, so the earlier you treat these conditions, the better chance you have of stopping one from forming. Dogs can also get hematomas if they’ve been in a fight. Bites and scratches often result in a blood blister.

What Are the Symptoms of a Hematoma?

Because hematomas form both internally and externally, there are different symptoms to look out for depending on where it is, and some pets show no sign of having one at all. Symptoms include:

• Visible signs: An under-the-skin hematoma shows signs of swelling and discoloration around the affected area.
• Obvious discomfort: Hematomas are uncomfortable, so pets scratch and shake their heads to try and get rid of it. They’re also painful, so dogs avoid being touched.
• Neurological symptoms: An internal hematoma may cause seizures and comas.
• Incontinence: Hematomas can make dogs incontinent.

How To Treat a Hematoma

Hematomas sometimes heal on their own, but a trip to a veterinarian provides immediate relief and prevents more blisters from forming if your dog continues to shake their head. A vet will either drain the hematoma and put in a temporary fix to prevent more blood from forming or remove it through surgery and put a suture in so the blister can’t reform. Either way, your pet will wear a cone collar while the wound heals.

If you suspect your dog has a hematoma, take them to the welcoming team at Thompson Animal Medical Center in La Crosse, WI. From dogs and cats to lizards and turtles, this accredited veterinarian clinic provides top-quality care. The team uses the latest advances in animal medicine to better diagnose and treat your pet. They’re also one of the leading pet-boarding and grooming providers in the local area. Call (608) 788-8820 to schedule a visit or go online to find out more.