Otohematoma in Dogs: What It Is, Causes and Treatment

Did you know that otohematomas, those bloody lumps in your dog’s ears, are more common than you might think? If you’ve ever noticed your dog constantly shaking his head or scratching at his ears, you may have wondered what’s going on. Why do otohematomas form? Are they dangerous? How are they treated and prevented? In this blog, we’ll answer all of these questions and give you the information you need to take care of your dog’s hearing health. Read on to learn all about how to spot, treat, and prevent this condition so your pet can feel better than ever!

What is an otohematoma?

An otohematoma is a collection of blood in a dog's outer ear, usually in the pinna area, that occurs as a result of repeated trauma or injury, such as scratching or head shaking. This hematoma forms when the blood vessels in the ear break, and blood collects between the layers of cartilage that make up the ear. Otohematomas are more common in dogs with long ears or those that tend to shake a lot due to itching or ear infections.

Causes of otohematoma in dogs

Otohematoma in dogs is usually caused by a combination of factors affecting the external ear:

• Ear Infections (Otitis): Ear infections, either bacterial or yeast-based, are a common cause in dogs , as they can cause intense itching. Scratching or rubbing the ears can cause trauma to the blood vessels in the auricle, leading to blood pooling.
• Allergies: Food or environmental allergies can cause itchy ears, leading the dog to scratch or shake its head, increasing the risk of injury and the formation of otohematomas.
• Parasites: Ear mite or flea infestations can cause itching and discomfort, leading the dog to rub or scratch its ears repeatedly, causing damage to the blood vessels.
• Physical trauma or blows: Any blow or injury to the ear, such as a bite or a strong shake, can break blood vessels and cause blood to pool.

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Symptoms

Symptoms of an otohematoma in dogs can vary depending on the severity, but generally include:

• Ear swelling: The most obvious sign is a lump or swelling in the auricle, which may feel soft or tight to the touch due to the buildup of blood.
• Scratching and head shaking: The dog may constantly scratch at its ears or shake its head excessively due to pain or discomfort caused by the hematoma.
• Ear pain and tenderness: The affected area may be sore to the touch, and the dog may show signs of discomfort or aggression when the affected ear is touched.
• Swelling and redness: The skin of the ear may appear swollen, red, or warm to the touch due to irritation or inflammation at the site of the bruise.
• Ear discharge: If the otohematoma is the result of an ear infection, there may be discharge, which may be yellowish or brown in color and have a foul odor.

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How is it diagnosed?

Diagnosing an otohematoma in dogs is primarily based on a thorough physical examination by a veterinarian. During this examination, the professional will assess the presence of swelling in the auricle, which is usually soft or tense to the touch due to the accumulation of blood. In addition, signs of redness, inflammation or heat in the affected area will be observed, and sensitivity or pain when manipulating the ear will be checked.

To identify the cause of the otohematoma, your veterinarian may perform an otoscopy, which examines the ear canal for infections, foreign bodies, or parasites. It's also common to take ear samples for cytology to check for possible bacterial or fungal infections. In some cases, X-rays or ultrasounds may be performed to assess the severity of the hematoma and rule out other conditions that may be causing similar symptoms.

How to cure otohematoma in dogs?

In mild cases, drainage using a needle and syringe may be an option, followed by the administration of corticosteroids to reduce inflammation. However, in more severe or recurrent situations, surgical intervention is the treatment of choice. This surgery involves removing the hematoma and sometimes using sutures to prevent future fluid buildup plus compressive bandages to help the cartilage adhere to the skin. In addition, it is essential to treat the underlying cause, such as infections or allergies, to prevent recurrences. After treatment, the use of an Elizabethan collar is recommended to prevent the dog from scratching or manipulating the bandage and the affected area, which could interfere with healing. The prognosis is usually favorable if addressed appropriately, although it is essential to follow the veterinarian's instructions and perform regular check-ups to ensure a full recovery.

Prevention of otohematoma in dogs

Preventing an otohematoma in dogs is primarily based on proper management of conditions that can cause ear lesions and itching, such as infections or allergies. Here are some key preventative measures:

• Keep your dog's ears clean and check them regularly for signs of infections or parasites, such as mites or yeast. If you notice your dog shaking his head or scratching a lot, it's important to take him to the vet to treat any infection before it becomes serious.
• If your dog has food or environmental allergies that affect his ears, working with your veterinarian to manage them can reduce the urge to scratch and rub his ears, which could lead to an otohematoma.
• Preventing physical trauma to the ears is essential. Avoid situations that may put your dog's ears at risk, such as fighting with other animals or contact with hard objects that may cause damage.
• In dogs with long ears or dense ear hair, proper hair trimming can help prevent the buildup of moisture or dirt, which could predispose to infections or irritations that trigger an otohematoma.
• Perform regular inspections of your dog's ears to detect any early signs of infection, inflammation or damage. This will allow for early treatment before the problem develops into an otohematoma.

Frequently Asked Questions About Otohematoma in Dogs

How serious is an otohematoma?

An otohematoma can be serious if not treated properly, as the accumulation of blood in the ear can cause pain, ear deformity, and in more severe cases, damage to the ear cartilage, which could result in a permanent deformity known as "cauliflower ear."

What happens if an otohematoma is not drained?

If not drained or managed properly, the hematoma can recur, leading to further discomfort and long-term complications. Furthermore, if the cause of the otohematoma, such as an infection or allergy, is not addressed, it can worsen the condition or even lead to chronic ear infections. Therefore, it is crucial to treat the otohematoma in a timely manner to avoid serious consequences and ensure the dog's recovery.

Conclusion

In conclusion, although an otohematoma can be painful and worrying, with proper diagnosis and treatment, your dog can make a full recovery. It is important to watch for signs of ear irritation and treat any causes such as infections or allergies early. If your pet already has an otohematoma, do not hesitate to consult your veterinarian to find the best course of action. Remember that with preventative care and proper support, your dog can enjoy healthy, pain-free ears. Take care of your four-legged companion so that he continues to live a happy and comfortable life!