Bleeding from Pinna in Dogs
Bleeding from pinna in dogs is a visible discharge of blood along the outer edge of the ear, which can be triggered by various causes and is often accompanied by other symptoms such as itching or swelling.
Can Occur with the Following Diseases:
Basics and possible causes
Bleeding from pinna in dogs can be caused by a variety of factors. The skin on the pinna is particularly thin and sensitive, making it prone to injury. One of the most common causes of bleeding in this area is injury from scratching or shaking the head. Dogs suffering from ear infections or allergies tend to scratch their ears or shake their heads frequently, which can lead to micro-injuries.
Another possible cause is parasites such as fleas or ticks, which can attach themselves to the ears and cause irritation and bleeding through their bites. Mites can also cause itching and inflammatory conditions that lead to scratching and thus to bleeding.
Diseases such as vasculitis, an inflammation of the blood vessels, can also cause bleeding. In this condition, the blood supply to the skin is disrupted, which can lead to necrosis and open wounds. Autoimmune diseases, in which the immune system attacks the body’s own cells, can also affect the ears and cause bleeding.
In rare cases, tumors or growths on the edges of the ears may be the cause of bleeding. These can be benign or malignant and should be examined by a veterinarian.
Typical accompanying symptoms
- Itching: Many dogs show intense scratching or shaking of the head, which indicates itching. This behavior can worsen the bleeding.
- Swelling: Swelling of the pinna may indicate an inflammatory condition or a hematoma caused by trauma or infection.
- Redness: Redness of the skin around the pinna often indicates an inflammatory condition that may have been triggered by an infection or an allergic reaction.
- Pain: The dog may be sensitive to touch of the ear and show pain, which may be caused by an underlying infection or irritation.
- Hair loss: In some cases, there may be hair loss around the affected ear, often as a result of constant scratching or a skin infection.
- Behavioral changes: A dog that feels unwell or is in pain may withdraw, appear lethargic, or be irritable.
When to visit the vet?
A visit to the veterinarian is essential if the bleeding does not stop on its own within a short time or if it occurs frequently. A veterinarian should also be consulted if the dog shows signs of pain or if other symptoms such as swelling, redness, or unusual odor from the ear occur.
Dogs that repeatedly scratch their ears or shake their heads should also be seen by a veterinarian, as this may indicate an underlying condition that needs to be treated. If there are signs of a systemic disease such as fever or general weakness, an immediate veterinary examination is necessary.
Especially if a parasitic infestation or autoimmune disease is suspected, quick action is important to prevent the symptoms from worsening.
Symptom recognition for animal owners and veterinary diagnostic procedures
As a pet owner, you can recognize initial signs such as traces of blood on the ears or on the fur and increased scratching or shaking of the head. On closer inspection, redness, swelling, or skin lesions may also be visible. It is important to inform the veterinarian about all observed symptoms and behavioral changes.
The veterinarian will perform a thorough examination of the ears to determine the cause of the bleeding. This may include examination of the external auditory canal, examination for foreign bodies, parasites, and signs of infection. Depending on the findings, the veterinarian may also perform a cytological examination of the ear secretions or a biopsy of the affected skin.
In some cases, blood tests may also be necessary to rule out systemic diseases or autoimmune disorders. If an allergic reaction is suspected, an allergy test may be considered.
What can pet owners do and professional therapy options
As a pet owner, you can take first aid measures for bleeding from pinna to stop the bleeding. Gently press a clean, sterile cloth or compress on the bleeding area to control the blood flow. Avoid rubbing or pressing hard, as this could make the situation worse.
To relieve itching and prevent further scratching, you can use a neck brace or protective collar until the cause of the bleeding has been clarified. Keep the ears clean and dry, and avoid applying home remedies that could further irritate the skin.
It is important to have the cause of the bleeding clarified by a veterinarian to ensure appropriate treatment. In the case of parasitic infestation, antiparasitic agents may be necessary, while in the case of infections, antibiotics or antifungals may be prescribed. For allergic reactions, a change in diet or the use of special shampoos may help.
Regular check-ups and good ear care can help prevent future problems. This includes regularly cleaning the ears with a product recommended by the veterinarian and checking for signs of parasites or infections.
Are you unsure what is wrong with your pet? Feel free to use our symptom checker for more clarity.