Symptoms & Treatments for Cat Ear Hematoma: A Comprehen

Primary Symptoms of Cat Ear Hematoma

One of the key symptoms of a cat ear hematoma is the presence of a swelling beneath the skin along the outer ear margin. This lump is typically painless, with no external injury or blood discharge. However, it may cause itching, prompting the cat to frequently shake its head or paw at its ears.

Diagnosis Methods for Cat Ear Hematoma

During diagnosis, veterinarians carefully examine the ear and palpate the swelling to assess the ear's condition. They also inspect the external auditory canal. An otoscope examination may follow a visual inspection of the ear canal. To prevent the cat from resisting, anesthesia is often required. This allows for a thorough examination of the ear canal during surgical treatment of the hematoma.

Treatment Methods for Cat Ear Hematoma

Cat ear hematomas are challenging to cure completely. Treatment usually involves draining the fluid from the hematoma, making incisions under anesthesia, and inserting a drain tube to temporarily remove the fluid (though it may recur after some time). The underlying cause of the hematoma, such as parasitic infections, is also addressed through comprehensive treatment. It is advisable for pet owners to promptly fit their cats with an Elizabethan collar to minimize the cat's temptation to scratch its ears.