French bulldogs have a unique appearance because of their bat-like ears. However, certain health issues are related to this breed because of their ears. A large number of French bulldogs are even prone to deafness, and most of them suffer from ear infections that lead to ear hematomas. Ear hematomas are not just common in French bulldogs but all dogs with floppy ears. In this blog, we will go through the causes, symptoms, and treatment for ear hematomas in French bulldogs and look at the process of managing this condition.
What is an Ear Hematoma?
So, what is ear hematoma? A hematoma occurs when blood accumulates between the cartilage and the skin of the ear flap. There is a different medical term used for this condition, and it is called “aural hematoma.” When the blood accumulates in that area, it swells up and makes a lump that causes the affected ear to become thick and misshaped.
Causes of Ear Hematomas in French Bulldogs
Ear Scratching or Head Shaking:
One of the major reasons for ear hematomas in dogs is head shaking or excessive scratching. This problem leads to ear infections, irritation, and allergies. When French bulldogs scratch or shake their head a lot, the blood vessels in the ear flaps could rupture; this will lead to the accumulation of blood and the formation of ear hematomas.
Ear Infections:
As you know, like all other dog breeds, French bulldogs are prone to ear infections, and that’s because of their unique ear structure, which doesn’t allow proper air circulation. When your pup rubs or scratches his ears, this will increase the discomfort and increase the chances of ear hematomas.
Trauma or Injury:
Another major cause of ear hematoma is injury or trauma. Such injuries happen during fights, rough play, or some kind of accident. The trauma will cause the blood vessel to rupture and lead to accumulation of blood in the ear.
Symptoms of Ear Hematomas in French Bulldogs:
- The most important and apparent symptoms of an ear hematoma are the swelling and thickening of the affected ear flap. The lumps that appear are of different sizes, ranging from small to large, and it depends on the severity of the condition.
- Your pup will appear in extreme signs of discomfort and pain. Frenchies will show a lot of reluctance when their ears are touched and tilt their head or shake them frequently.
- In some pups, there is a lot of change in behavior; they will be restless and irritated because of the discomfort caused by the hematomas.
- Underlying causes are not directly related to symptoms, but it’s important to understand the causes that are related to the development of hematomas like allergies and ear infections.
Treatment Options for Ear Hematomas in French Bulldogs:
The most common method of treatment of ear hematomas is aspiration or drainage. This procedure includes the use of a syringe to remove the blood accumulated in the hematoma, and it also reduces swelling. However, this process is not the treatment for the underlying cause, and hematoma will occur again if the root cause is not resolved.
- Your vet will prescribe the corticosteroid to reduce the inflammation and allow the body to reabsorb the blood accumulated in the ear flaps. This treatment is further used in conjunction with drainage to promote faster healing.
- (NSAIDs) or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs will be prescribed to manage the pain and inflammation and to reduce the swelling. These NSAIDS can also be a part of a complete treatment plan and address the hematoma and other causes.
- If you want to completely treat the cause of hematoma so that it won’t happen again, then treat the underlying causes like allergies or infection. This also involves the process of cleaning the ear regularly by using antibiotics and ear drops.
- In order to prevent the dog from rubbing their ear and worsening the condition of hematoma, the vets will recommend the Elizabethan collar. This will not allow your dog to reach the ear with its paws rubbing against any surface.
Preventing Ear Hematomas in French Bulldogs:
- The most important thing is to maintain good ear hygiene, as it is essential for preventing all kinds of ear infections and ear hematomas. Clean your pup’s ears on a regular basis, especially if they have the problem of wax buildup in the ear.
- In case you find any sign of any ear infection, like swelling or redness or any foul odor, then seek veterinary attention immediately. If you treat ear infections from an early time, it will also help prevent the development of hematomas.
- If your dog has allergies, then it’s important to manage them, as it is the key to preventing ear hematomas. You can make some dietary changes to avoid any kind of allergies, or you can use some allergy medication prescribed by the user’s vet.
- Since trauma plays a major role in the development of hematomas, it’s important to supervise your pup during playtime, especially when there are other dogs around. You can also use the Magic Gate for your Frenchie to prevent them from going to places where they can get injured and harm their ears. You can even use it on stairs or in front of a room.
Conclusion:
Ear hematomas are very distressing for your Frenchie and even for you, but they are easily manageable if you take proper care. Try to understand the causes and symptoms behind it and take measures to prevent this problem. If you see any sign of hematomas, try to consult your vet as early as possible. With the right treat and care, your pup can live a happy and healthy life with their bat-like ears increasing their charm.
