Home Treatment for Hematoma in a Cat's Ear

Put simply, there is no appropriate home treatment for a hematoma, or blood clot, in your cat's ear. A hematoma is a localized blood clot that's gotten trapped between your cat's skin and his ear cartilage. The condition is painful and must be distinguished from a tumor or abscess, which share some of the same symptoms. Bottom line: you need to take your cat to the veterinarian for a definite diagnosis and prompt treatment. If you don't, your cat will continue to suffer and may develop a permanent disfigurement called cauliflower ear.

  1. Symptoms

    • A hematoma will make part or all of your cat's ear looked puffed up and swollen, like a pillow, according to the Pets MD website. It will feel fluid-filled, warm and tender to the touch. The ear may look red. Your cat may cry, yowl, exhibit aggressive behavior or otherwise behave as if he's not feeling well -- because he isn't. Your cat may tilt his head to one side or shake or rub it.

    Causes

    • Hematomas are often the result of chronic underlying health issues, according to the Vet Info website. Conditions such as chronic ear infections, allergies or ear mites cause your cat's ear to itch, and his excessive scratching provokes the hematoma -- since trauma, such as violent scratching, shaking or injury to the ear, is the direct cause of hematomas.

    Treatment

    • Depending on your pet's age, health and the severity of his condition, your vet may perform a needle aspiration, in which he uses a syringe to drain the blood from your cat's ear, or he may perform surgery. The Cat World website notes that aspiration is appropriate for small hematomas, but that it may not prevent the hematoma from coming back. If your pet's hematoma is large, your vet may perform surgery. He will drain the blood clot and suture or bandage the ear to prevent further injury, according to the site.

    Prevention

    • Take your cat to the vet right away if you suspect an ear infection or allergy to head off any problems that may result in scratching or head shaking. Protecting your cat from head trauma, whatever its cause, will help prevent hematomas.