My cat has an ear hematoma. Should I treat it myself or go to the vet?
Updated On September 23rd, 2025
Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed
My cat has a hematoma on her ear. She will shake her head when I touch it. Otherwise she is currently laying on my couch and is sleeping on that early. Can I take care of it myself? I do have an e-collar from previous procedures.
4 Answers
Most Helpful Answer
Published on November 4th, 2016
Poor Cinders! Ear hematomas will eventually resolve on their own without treatment, so watching and waiting is an option - the downside is that this can take quite a while in some cases, and the swelling may continue to be sore and uncomfortable for her in the meantime. It's also important to realize that in many cases, an ear hematoma is the result of an ear infection or other underlying problem which may need to be treated to allow the hematoma to heal. For this reason, it would be best to have her seen by a vet when you are able to. He/she can discuss pros and cons of surgery to drain the swelling vs. watchful waiting and help you decide what would be best.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Related Answers from Veterinarians
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Published on June 13th, 2019
The longer Tank has the swelling, the longer it will take to heal. It is not expected to rupture unless he hits it hard against something. Oozing is also possible if the pressure builds up too much. The more immobile you keep the ear, the better. There is a sleeve called a No Flap Ear Wrap that tends to work well. You may also ask about having it drained earlier since this will speed up healing. It could take any where between 2-6 weeks to heal pending fluid accumulation, trauma and if it is drained as needed. I hope this helps.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on October 17th, 2017
Hi there. Sometimes they can heal but unfortunately the process is fairly painful for your animal and we do not recommend that. Aural hematomas are caused when the blood vessels burst inside their ear causing the swelling. It creates a lot of pressure on the skin so without drainage hand surgery it is a constant source of discomfort. Best to you and Pino.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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Published on October 18th, 2017
HI, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Pino! There are other medical options besides surgery. A lot of ear hematomas resolve with steroids and treating the ear infection. Since you just saw your Vet I would ask about that as an option, prednisolone is cheap. He may not have the most beautiful ear in the end but that is just cosmetics. Your Vet can prescribe a safe ear cleaner and ear drops to fight the infection. A lot if the time the Veterinary nurses can do an ear cleaning demonstration for you with Pino. It may take some time for the swelling to go down. There are great videos online as well demonstrating ear cleaning. I hope this helps and good luck!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
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