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Canine Ear Hematoma Symptoms
The main symptoms of canine ear hematomas include warmth in the ear, ear swelling, and the puncture fluid from the swelling being mainly red. Firstly, because ear hematomas are caused by broken capillaries, which are also inflamed locally, they will be warm. Secondly, when touching the swollen area of the dog with your hand, there will be a distinct fluctuation sensation, and the pain is not obvious. Additionally, when a dog has an ear hematoma, it may also cause surrounding tissue infection, leading to severe inflammation and symptoms such as high body temperature and decreased appetite.
- Causes of Canine Ear Hematomas
Canine ear hematomas occur when, under the influence of external forces, the blood vessels inside the dog's ear rupture, causing internal bleeding, separation, and inflammation between the ear skin and cartilage, forming a fixed swelling filled with fluid. Canine ear hematomas usually occur on the inner side of the ear, and if infected, they may form abscesses. The likelihood of ear hematomas occurring on both sides of the ear is relatively small.
- How to Treat Canine Ear Hematomas
Canine ear hematomas are primarily treated surgically in clinical practice. First, the dog's ear canal and ear need to be cleaned thoroughly, with the surrounding hair removed to expose the hematoma site. Then, a small incision is made at the bottom of the ear hematoma, draining the exuded tissue fluid. Following that, a coagulation drug and antibiotics are injected into the cavity to prevent infection. Finally, the wound is sutured, and the ear is fixed in place to prevent the dog from scratching the infected wound.
- Consequences of Not Treating Canine Ear Hematomas
The untreated consequences of canine ear hematomas are extensive ear swelling, which may spread to other tissues, and even lead to ear necrosis. Severe ear hematomas, if accidentally scratched and broken by the dog, may cause severe bacterial infections or even bacteremia. If bacteremia occurs, the dog's mortality rate will significantly increase.