If your cat has developed a hematoma on their ear there are options to treat it. Our Somerset vets discuss ear hematoma surgery in cats.
What Are Ear Hematomas In Cats?
A hematoma is simply a pocket of blood that can develop within an organ or tissue, commonly called a 'blood blister.' They can vary in size and location but in the case of ear (aural) hematomas, they present between the skin and cartilage of your cat's ear flap. They don't occur frequently in cats, but that makes it all the more important for pet parents to know what to look for and what to do if their cat develops an ear hematoma.
Treatment for Cats With Ear Hematomas
The most commonly recommended method to address the issue of ear hematomas is surgery. For pets that are unable to undergo anesthesia or if the hematoma is quite small then your vet may opt to drain it instead. This method will work to clear up the hematoma but is not a permanent solution as the condition is likely to present itself again. Ear hematoma surgery is a permanent solution for your pet's problem, and surgery will prevent excessive scarring from occurring.
When your cat is undergoing treatment for this condition, your vet will also be treating the underlying cause of the hematoma so that it does not come back in the future.
Ear Hematoma Surgery for Cats
The most effective treatment for ear hematomas in cats is surgery. While the specific process might vary on a case-by-case basis but there are a few standard steps in the process. These include:
- Your cat's veterinary surgeon will make a small incision at each end of the hematoma and remove the blood from the pinna. A drainage tube will be placed in the hematoma and sutured in place to continue draining any fluids that build up or the vet may opt to completely open the area to prevent a build-up of blood and fluids.
- Then the surgeon will close up the area where the blood accumulated permanently preventing further hematomas.
- The pinna will be supported to allow for proper healing through the recovery process.
Once the ear hematoma has been resolved your vet will treat any additional conditions related to the ear hematoma.
As your cat heals the vet will remove any drainage tubes, bandages or sutures when it is safe to do so.
Cat Ear Hematoma Surgery Recovery
Your kitty may experience some soreness or discomfort for a couple of days after their surgery, but your vet will prescribe medication for the pain and to prevent infection and inflammation.
Your cat will need to wear an Elizabethan collar to stop them from scratching the surgical site and causing inflammation, bleeding, pulled stitches, or infection.
You will receive instructions and helpful advice from your vet on how to administer home care for your feline friend as they are recovering from surgery at home, as well as when to return for follow-up visits and to have the stitches removed.
What Can Happen If Cat Ear Hematomas Are Left Untreated
While ear hematomas will sometimes drain, heal and scar on their own however this is not recommended. Untreated hematomas can lead to the following:
- Pain caused by swelling and pressure that could last for weeks.
- A greatly extended healing time.
- The process of ear hematomas in cats healing on their own could take a very long time.
- Swollen ear flap that can prevent effective treatment of any infection that may be present.
- Excessive scar tissue gives the ear a distorted appearance.
If your cat is experiencing an ear hematoma it is best to have it examined by their vet and treated through surgery to decrease pain, speed up healing and prevent this condition from reoccurring.
Cat Ear Hematoma Surgery Cost
The cost of ear hematoma surgery for cats will vary for a lot of reasons. It will vary from state to state, it can vary based on the location of the hematoma. The cost of your cat's ear hematoma surgery will depend on a number of other factors including the severity of the hematoma and the overall health of your feline friend.
To get the best estimate of the cost of your cat's upcoming surgery you will want to speak to your vet at their office. Most clinics are happy to give clients an estimate of costs including a detailed breakdown.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.