Blood blisters, also known as hematomas, are common in dogs, and most are the result of some kind of injury. If you’re a dog owner, it’s important to know what they are, what causes them, and how to treat them.
This article is designed to be a comprehensive guide to blood blisters in dogs, covering the different types, what causes them, what the symptoms are, how they’re diagnosed, how they’re treated, and how you can prevent them.
It’s also important to know that sometimes blood blisters can indicate an underlying health issue, including cancer. That’s why it’s important to consult with your veterinarian if you notice one on your dog.
By the end of this article, you’ll know how to tell the difference between different types of blood blisters, how to recognize the symptoms, what your treatment options are, and when it’s time to call the vet. You’ll also learn how to prevent blood blisters in your furry friend.
What is a blood blister on a dog?
The term “blood blister” usually refers to a hematoma, which is a collection of blood outside of a blood vessel. In dogs, hematomas usually show up after some kind of trauma. For example, if your dog bumps into something or gets bitten, blood vessels can break. The escaping blood then pools under the skin.
It’s easy to confuse blood blisters with other skin conditions. For instance, hygromas are fluid-filled sacs that usually show up over bony areas. Abscesses are pus-filled infections. Tumors are abnormal growths that can be cancerous or benign.
While blood blisters are often benign, you should always get them checked out by your vet.
Types of Blood Blisters on Dogs
Blood blisters in dogs, or hematomas, can show up in different places for different reasons. Here are some of the most common:
Aural Hematomas
Aural hematomas are blood blisters that form on a dog’s ear flap, or pinna. They’re caused by some kind of trauma, most often from vigorous head shaking or scratching at an ear, which causes blood vessels to break and leak fluid. Dogs with floppy ears are more prone to these kinds of hematomas than dogs with perky ears.
If your dog develops an aural hematoma, the ear flap will look swollen and thick. It will also likely be painful to the touch.
Treatment options include draining the fluid from the hematoma and then treating whatever caused the problem in the first place. This might mean treating an ear infection or managing allergies.
Scrotal Hematomas
Scrotal hematomas are blood blisters that form in the scrotum. These often happen as a complication of neutering surgery or because of an infection in the groin area.
The symptoms of a scrotal hematoma include swelling, pain, and discoloration of the scrotum.
To treat this kind of hematoma, your vet may need to drain the fluid, give your dog antibiotics to prevent infection, and prescribe pain medication.
Subdermal Hematomas on the Body
Subdermal hematomas are blood blisters that form under the skin somewhere on the body because of some kind of trauma or injury. They’re most often found on the paws, legs, or abdomen.
You’ll probably notice these as raised, discolored lumps under your dog’s skin.
You can try treating these with cold compresses and pain medication, but in some cases, your vet may need to drain them.
Hematomas on Organs or in the Brain
Although less common, hematomas can also occur internally, on organs or in the brain. These kinds of internal hematomas are very serious and require immediate veterinary attention, as they can be life-threatening.
Internal hematomas can be caused by severe trauma, blood clotting disorders, or even tumors.
These are difficult to diagnose and often require advanced imaging, such as ultrasound or MRI. Treatment may involve surgery or medication.
What causes blood blisters in dogs?
Blood blisters in dogs can arise from a few different causes, but trauma is the most common.
Trauma or injury
When a dog suffers a fall, collision, bite, or puncture from a sharp object, the blood vessels may rupture and lead to a hematoma, or blood blister. Common scenarios include:
- Running into objects
- Getting into fights with other animals
- Stepping on sharp objects
Although accidents happen, you can minimize the risk of injury by keeping your dog in safe environments and supervising their activities as much as possible.
Blood-clotting disorders
Certain blood-clotting disorders can also make dogs more prone to blood blisters. These disorders — such as Von Willebrand’s disease, hemophilia, and thrombocytopenia — impair the body’s ability to form blood clots. This makes dogs more prone to bleeding and hematoma formation.
Symptoms of blood-clotting disorders include:
- Excessive bleeding from minor cuts
- Nosebleeds
- Easy bruising
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian to diagnose and manage the disorder. Veterinary testing can often identify blood-clotting disorders, and treatment may include medication or even blood transfusions.
Symptoms to look out for: What does a blood blister on a dog look like?
Blood blisters, also known as hematomas, aren’t always easy to spot, especially in furry dogs. Here’s what to look for, both physically and behaviorally.
Physical signs
A blood blister typically shows up as a raised, soft lump under your dog’s skin. It’ll feel like it’s filled with fluid, because it is! You might notice:
- Discoloration: The lump may be red, purple, or even blue. As the blood starts to clot and your dog’s body reabsorbs it, the color may change over time.
- Size changes: You might notice the blister growing larger in the hours after it forms.
- Pain or sensitivity: If you touch the area, your dog may flinch or pull away. Larger or inflamed hematomas can be particularly painful.
Behavioral changes
Sometimes, the first clue that something’s wrong isn’t a physical sign, but a change in your dog’s behavior. Pain and discomfort can lead to:
- Lower activity levels: Your dog may not want to play or go for walks.
- Limping: If the blood blister is on a paw or leg, your dog might favor that limb.
- Reluctance to be touched: Your dog might avoid being petted or handled, especially in a particular area.
- Appetite changes: Pain can sometimes affect a dog’s appetite.
Pay close attention to your dog’s behavior. Changes in behavior can give you important clues about where the blood blister is and how severe it might be. For example, you might notice your dog guarding a certain spot on their body, or becoming less social than usual.
Could it be cancer?
Most blood blisters are harmless. However, some blood-filled lesions may point to cancerous conditions. It’s important to determine whether a growth is a hemangioma or a hemangiosarcoma.
A hemangioma is a benign tumor made up of blood vessels. Hemangiosarcomas, on the other hand, are malignant tumors that spread quickly. Hemangiomas usually look like small, raised red or purple bumps on the skin. Hemangiosarcomas can be internal or external, and they tend to be larger and more aggressive.
The only way to be certain is to see your veterinarian. They may need to take a biopsy and run a histopathology to determine whether the growth is cancerous.
How are blood blisters diagnosed?
If you suspect your dog has a blood blister, a vet will perform a thorough physical exam. They’ll carefully feel the affected area and ask you about your dog’s recent activities. For example, they’ll want to know if your dog has recently been injured or if they have any known allergies.
Your vet will also want to know about your dog’s medical history. This will help them rule out underlying conditions that could cause blood blisters.
In some cases, the vet might need to run tests. Blood tests can identify blood clotting disorders or other medical issues. Cytology (examining cells under a microscope) or a biopsy (removing a small tissue sample) can help rule out cancer. An accurate diagnosis is essential for developing the right treatment plan.
Treatment Options
Blood blisters in dogs can be addressed through medical treatments and home remedies, but it’s important to remember that a vet’s care is always the best route.
Medical Treatments
A vet may choose to drain the hematoma to relieve pressure and encourage healing. They might also prescribe antibiotics to fight off or prevent an infection, along with some kind of pain reliever to keep your dog comfortable.
In more serious or recurring cases, surgery might be necessary to remove large hematomas, or to address underlying issues such as tumors.
Home Remedies
While home remedies can offer some temporary relief, they shouldn’t take the place of a vet’s expertise. If you notice a blood blister on your dog, it’s important to consult a vet before trying to treat it yourself.
One safe and effective home remedy is applying cold compresses to the affected area. This can help bring down the swelling and ease the pain.
Whatever you do, keep a close eye on the blood blister. If it seems to be getting worse, or if your dog seems to be in a lot of pain, it’s time to get in touch with your vet right away.
Preventive measures
The best way to prevent blood blisters is to prevent injuries from happening in the first place.
Regular grooming
Grooming isn’t just about keeping your dog looking spiffy. When you groom your dog regularly, you’re more likely to notice any skin problems or potential blood blisters early on, when they’re easier to treat.
Proper nutrition
A healthy, balanced diet is key to your dog’s overall health. Proper nutrition helps ensure that your dog’s blood clots normally, which can prevent blood blisters from forming.
Avoiding rough play
Roughhousing can sometimes lead to scrapes, bumps, and bruises. If your dog likes to play rough with other dogs, make sure you supervise them to minimize the risk of injury.
Protecting paws
Keep your dog’s paws safe from sharp objects and rough terrain. If you’re hiking or walking in an area with lots of rocks or broken glass, consider using dog booties to protect their paws.
Regular exercise
Regular exercise is important for your dog’s physical and mental health. A healthy dog is less likely to get injured, so make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise.
When to see a vet
You should always take your dog to the vet if you see a blood blister that’s large, seems painful, or grows quickly. You should also seek veterinary care if the blister appears alongside other symptoms, such as a fever, lethargy, or loss of appetite.
Even if a blood blister seems minor, it’s still a good idea to have a vet examine it. A vet can rule out underlying medical conditions that might be causing the problem.
Getting prompt veterinary care can improve the chances of a good outcome for your dog.
In Closing
Blood blisters in dogs are common, but it’s important to understand what they are and what might have caused them. Sometimes, a blood blister signals a more serious health issue.
If you notice a blood blister on your dog, the best thing to do is consult your veterinarian for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. Prompt care is essential for the best outcome.
As a dog owner, you can take steps to prevent injuries and keep an eye on your dog for any signs of blood blisters or other health problems. Regular grooming can help you spot potential problems early.
With proper care and attention, most dogs can recover fully from blood blisters and go back to enjoying their happy, active lives. Remember, when in doubt, reach out to your vet!