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Dog ear hematoma, vet closed. Can I drain it or wait it out?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Female | unspayed | 55 lbs

My dog has a hematoma and it big my vet is closes today I know people have drained it themselves at home and some say they leave it and it goes away on its own in 3 to 4 weeks what can I do

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on July 9th, 2017

I also have seen people leave them be to eventually absorb. However I would not recommend doing this to your pet because it does cause them discomfort and there is a risk of having pressure necrosis develop on the ear flap. I would also not recommend draining this yourself because this requires making a cut in the ear flap and often a mild sedative is needed for the pet to tolerate a procedure like this. Also if there is an infection then antibiotics will be needed in addition. The best advice is to let your vet drain this area at the clinic/hospital. You can place a cold compress on the ear flap, if allowed, to help reduce the blood pooling for now and then get Bear seen by your vet as soon as you can. Best wishes with Bear and his ear hematoma. I hope everything works out well for her. Take care.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on August 17th, 2018
Poor Bodie! Your vet is correct, typically aural hematomas do fill up again, and your vet would have drained it to provide comfort to him. They are uncomfortable to the dog. The surgery is necessary to prevent it from filling up over and over so you don't have to keep bringing him back in to get it drained. I hope this helps!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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