Cat aural hematoma, drain it again?

I’m really stressed and could use some advice. My poor cat Whiskers has developed an aural hematoma again, and I'm at a bit of a loss. A few months ago, he went through this, and the vet drained it. Back then, he seemed to heal up fine, but now it's back, and I'm honestly at my wit's end. I’ve noticed he’s been shaking his head a lot and even scratches at his ear occasionally, making me worry it might get worse. I want to avoid him going through another draining procedure if possible since it seemed pretty uncomfortable for him. Do any of you have experience with treating this kind of situation naturally, or should I be considering a longer-term solution? Any thoughts you can share would be amazing. Thanks for listening.

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Answer

Hello there! I'm sorry to hear your kitty is dealing with an aural hematoma. These are quite common and can be uncomfortable for your pet. An aural hematoma occurs when blood vessels in the ear flap break, causing blood to pool between the skin and cartilage. This usually happens because of ear infections, allergies, or trauma from excessive scratching or shaking.

If your cat’s hematoma has filled up again after being drained, it's important to address the underlying cause, such as an infection or allergy, to prevent recurrence. At home, try to keep your cat calm and discourage scratching. A soft, clean cloth with warm water can help soothe the area if your cat seems irritated, but avoid applying pressure directly on the hematoma.

Watch for signs of infection or discomfort, like excessive head shaking, foul odor, or redness, as these could indicate something more serious. If the swelling doesn’t improve or your cat seems very uncomfortable, it might need further treatment, potentially surgical, to prevent scarring or deformity.

I recommend booking a video consult with us at Dial A Vet so we can take a closer look and provide a tailored plan to get your furry friend feeling better soon. Looking forward to helping you both!

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Disclaimer: The customer and expert messages presented herein may have been altered with artificial intelligence or modified to enhance readability and safeguard the privacy of individuals. This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If your pet is experiencing a medical emergency, contact your local veterinarian or emergency animal hospital immediately. Talk to a vet now.

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