Daisy has a swollen left ear. It hurts her when i touch it or when itches or applies pressure to the ear.
I’ve identified two questions and have prepared one answer.
It sounds like Daisy might be experiencing a condition known as an aural hematoma, which is essentially a collection of blood within the ear flap. This can occur due to trauma, such as vigorous head shaking or scratching, often as a result of an underlying ear infection or irritation.
Firstly, it’s important to keep her ear clean. Continue using the ear cleanser and wipes, but be gentle to avoid causing her additional pain.
Secondly, try to prevent further trauma. This means discouraging her from scratching or shaking her head excessively. You might find it helpful to use an Elizabethan collar, commonly known as a cone, to prevent her from scratching her ear.
Additionally, monitor her ear for signs of infection. Look out for redness, discharge, or a foul odor. If you notice any of these symptoms, it could indicate an ear infection that requires treatment.
Given that her ear is swollen, painful, and feels like it’s filled with liquid, it’s crucial to have her seen by a veterinarian. They can provide a proper diagnosis and may need to drain the hematoma or address any underlying infection or irritation.
If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to ask. Thank you.
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Thank you. I’ll continue to add drops into her ear. Sadly, I can’t get a vet appointment until Monday morning.
I understand how challenging it can be when you can't get an immediate appointment for Daisy. In the meantime, there are a few steps you can take to help her feel more comfortable:
First, continue using the ear cleanser and wipes as you have been doing. Be gentle to avoid causing her any additional pain.
If you have an Elizabethan collar, also known as a cone, it would be beneficial to use it. This will help prevent Daisy from scratching or shaking her head, which could worsen the swelling.
Applying a cold compress to the swollen area can also help reduce inflammation and provide some relief. Simply wrap some ice in a cloth and gently hold it against her ear for a few minutes at a time.
Thank you. I will do the ice and the drops and hope it helps for the time being
You're welcome. Keeping her calm and preventing further irritation will be key. If you notice any worsening of her symptoms or if she seems to be in significant pain, it would be wise to take Daisy to a vet.
I sincerely hope Daisy stay healthy.
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