Aural Haematomas in Dogs and Cats: Causes, Signs and Treatment

An aural haematoma is a blood-filled swelling that develops within the ear flap, or pinna, of a dog or cat. The ear may suddenly appear thick, swollen or balloon-like and can be uncomfortable or painful.

Aural haematomas often develop after repeated head shaking, scratching or trauma to the ear damages small blood vessels within the ear flap. Blood then collects between the tissues of the ear, creating the characteristic soft or firm swelling.

While an aural haematoma is not usually life-threatening, it should be assessed by a veterinarian. Treatment is often needer not only for the swelling itself, but also the underlying problem that caused your pet to shake or scratch their ears in the first place.

An aural haematoma usually causes part or all of the ear flap to become:

• Swollen or thickened
• Soft and fluid-filled, particularly when it first develops
• Warm or tender to touch
• Heavy or droopy
• Uncomfortable or painful

The swelling may be small and localised or involve most of the ear flap. Some owners describe the affected ear as looking like a pillow or balloon.

Your pet may also be shaking their head, scratching at their ears or showing signs of an underlying ear problem.

An aural haematoma develops when small blood vessels within the ear flap rupture and bleed into the surrounding tissue.

This is often caused by repeated head shaking or scratching associated with an underlying problem, such as:

• Ear infections
• Allergies and itchy skin
• Ear mites or other parasites
• Foreign material in the ear
• Trauma to the ear flap

In some cases, direct trauma can cause a haematoma. For example, rough play or another animal repeatedly grabbing the ear may damage the blood vessels.

Finding out why the ear became irritated or injured is an important part of treatment.

Ear infections are a common reason for persistent head shaking and scratching. Learn more about the signs and treatment of ear infections in dogs.

Draining or treating the haematoma addresses the swollen ear, but if your pet continues shaking their head or scratching, the problem may return.

Your veterinarian may examine the ear canals and recommend further testing or treatment for problems such as infection, inflammation, parasites or allergies.

Treating both the aural haematoma and its underlying cause gives your pet the best chance of a comfortable recovery.

Treatment depends on the size of the haematoma, how long it has been present, the condition of the ear and your individual pet.

Treatment options may include:

• Draining the accumulated fluid
• Medication to help manage inflammation and discomfort
• Surgical treatment
• Treating any underlying ear infection, allergy or other cause

Your veterinarian will recommend the most appropriate treatment after examining your pet.

For some pets, surgery may be recommended to drain the haematoma and help the layers of the ear flap heal back together.

The aim is to:

• Remove the accumulated blood and fluid
• Reduce the chance of the ear refilling
• Relieve discomfort
• Encourage the ear to heal with as little permanent distortion as possible

After treatment your pet may need medication, follow-up checks and protection to prevent further scratching or damage while the ear heals.

Some aural haematomas may eventually resolve as the body gradually absorbs the fluid. However, this process can take time and may be uncomfortable.

As the ear heals, scar tissue can form and cause the ear flap to become permanently thickened, wrinkled or distorted, sometimes referred to as a "cauliflower ear".

For this reason, it is best to have a swollen ear assessed rather than waiting to see whether it resolves on its own.

Yes. An aural haematoma can recur, particularly if the underlying reason for head shaking or scratching has not been controlled.

Managing chronic ear infections, allergies and other causes of ear irritation can help reduce the risk of future problems. 

Arrange a veterinary examination if you notice:

• Sudden swelling of your pet's ear flap
• Persistent head shaking
• Scratching at the ears
• Ear discharge or an unpleasant smell
• Redness or pain around the ear
• A previously treated ear beginning to swell again

The earlier the underlying cause is identified, the sooner your pet can be made more comfortable.

Aural haematomas can look alarming, but there are several treatment options available. The most important step is to assess both the swollen ear and why it developed.

If your dog or cat has developed a swollen ear flap or is repeatedly shaking their head or scratching their ears, contact the Vet Cross team for advice and an examination.

Written by: Vet Cross Marketing Team

Clinically Reviewed by: Dr Amy Cox BVSc (Hons)

Last Reviewed: August 2026