Ear Hematomas in Cats

Ear hematomas are swollen ear flaps in cats.

An ear hematoma occurs when space is created between the skin and cartilage in a cat's ear flap, and a broken blood vessel leaks into that space.

Causes of Ear Hematomas in Cats

Ear hematomas are caused by trauma to the ear flap(s). In cats, they are usually caused by an ear mite infestation, but they can be the result of anything that causes a cat to shake his head or scratch his ears violently.

Signs of Feline Aural Hematomas

Cats with an ear hematoma have swelling in one or both ear flaps. This might be a soft, small bubble anywhere in the flap, the entire flap may be swollen, large, and heavy, or anything in between. The tip of the ear flap may be weighed down by the hematoma.

Treatment of Ear Hematomas in Cats

Cats with ear hematomas may be treated in one or more of the following ways:

Regardless of how the veterinarian chooses to treat the ear hematoma, the underlying cause must also be addressed and treated aggressively. Ear mites, ear infection, allergies, or any other condition that causes the cat to shake his head or scratch his ears must be treated to allow the ear hematoma to heal and prevent it from recurring in the future.

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