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My dog has an ear hematoma. What to expect for healing and care?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Boxer | Male | neutered | 10 years and 11 months old | 90 lbs

So my poor Tanky Tank has a hematoma in his ear. The vet said we could treat it with Prednisone and bring him back in two weeks to check him out. We may have it drained at that time. My husband took him to the vet, I had to pick the kids. His ear won’t explode right? I’m just worried. It’s so swollen. His vet said he didn’t seem like he was in any pain. She said it could take a month or so for the swelling to go away. What can we expect?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

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.

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