What is an aural haematoma? Aural hematomas are collections of fresh or clotted blood within the pinna (ear flap). When there is a hematoma, the ear flap becomes very thick and spongy. The swelling could affect the entire ear flap or just one area of the ear. So then what causes an aural hematoma? It is usually the result of a self-inflicted injury caused by your pet's scratching and head shaking. All conditions that cause otitis externa are among the underlying causes (infection of the external ear canal). Sources of irritation to the ear linked to the development of an aural hematoma include: inflammation immune-mediated diseases allergies parasites foreign bodies trauma (bite wound or blunt trauma) SYMPTOMS A swollen, droopy earflap (that develops very suddenly) Redness, heat, and pain Head shaking Ear scratching Head tilt (holding the head to one side) ARE THERE TREATMENTS FOR IT? Aural hematoma treatment options include needle aspiration of the blood and an...