Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Health Guide
A beloved companion breed with serious genetic health challenges—nearly all develop heart disease.
9-14
Years Lifespan
12-18
Pounds
Very High
Health Risk
#15
AKC Popularity
Critical Health Warning
Nearly 100% of Cavaliers develop Mitral Valve Disease (MVD) by age 10. About 50% show heart murmurs by age 5. Annual cardiac screening by a cardiologist is essential—not optional.
Why Cavaliers Have So Many Health Issues
Cavaliers were bred from a very small gene pool and selected for appearance rather than health. The breed's small skull size contributes to syringomyelia, while inbreeding has made heart disease nearly universal:
- Heart disease (MVD): The #1 health issue—affects nearly every Cavalier
- Syringomyelia: Up to 70% affected due to skull/brain size mismatch
- Eye problems: Cataracts, dry eye, retinal issues common
- Ear infections: Long, floppy ears trap moisture
Major Health Conditions
1. Mitral Valve Disease (MVD)
~100% affectedThe mitral valve degenerates and leaks, causing the heart to work harder. Eventually leads to congestive heart failure. The single most important health issue in Cavaliers.
Progression signs:
- • Heart murmur (earliest sign)
- • Coughing, especially at night
- • Exercise intolerance
- • Rapid breathing, fatigue
- • Fluid in lungs (late stage)
Management:
- • Annual cardiology exams
- • Medications when needed (Pimobendan)
- • Monitor breathing rate at home
- • Maintain healthy weight
- • Low-sodium diet when prescribed
2. Syringomyelia (SM)
Up to 70% affectedThe skull is too small for the brain, blocking spinal fluid flow and creating fluid pockets in the spinal cord. Causes chronic pain in many dogs. MRI required for diagnosis.
Signs to watch:
- • "Phantom scratching" at neck/ear
- • Yelping when picked up
- • Head/neck sensitivity
- • Sleeping with head elevated
- • Wobbling or weakness
Treatment options:
- • Pain medications (gabapentin)
- • Anti-inflammatory drugs
- • Surgery in severe cases
- • Harness instead of collar
- • Avoid neck pressure
3. Eye Problems
CommonCavaliers are prone to multiple eye conditions including cataracts, dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca), cherry eye, and retinal problems.
Conditions:
- • Cataracts (hereditary)
- • Dry eye syndrome
- • Cherry eye
- • Corneal ulcers
- • Retinal dysplasia
Prevention:
- • Annual eye exams
- • Schirmer tear test
- • Clean eyes regularly
- • Eye drops if prescribed
4. Ear Infections
Very commonCavaliers' long, pendulous ears create a warm, moist environment perfect for infections. Regular cleaning is essential.
Signs:
- • Head shaking
- • Scratching at ears
- • Odor or discharge
- • Redness or swelling
Prevention:
- • Weekly ear cleaning
- • Dry ears after baths
- • Check ears regularly
- • Address allergies
5. Joint Problems
Moderate riskCavaliers can develop hip dysplasia and luxating patellas (kneecaps that slip out of place), causing lameness and arthritis over time.
Signs:
- • Limping or skipping
- • Stiffness after rest
- • Difficulty jumping
- • Bunny-hopping gait
Management:
- • Maintain healthy weight
- • Joint supplements
- • Low-impact exercise
- • Surgery if severe
Essential Care for Cavaliers
Non-Negotiable Health Screenings
Echocardiogram by cardiologist
If showing neurological signs
CAER certification
Monitor resting rate weekly
Resting Breathing Rate
Count your Cavalier's breaths per minute while sleeping. Normal is under 30. If consistently over 30-40, contact your vet immediately—this can indicate heart failure is worsening.
Emergency Signs:
- Severe difficulty breathing or blue gums
- Collapse or fainting
- Persistent coughing with pink foam
- Sudden paralysis or inability to walk
- Screaming in pain when touched
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Upload Your Dog's Records FreeFrequently Asked Questions
What is the lifespan of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel?
Cavaliers typically live 9-14 years, with an average of about 10-11 years. Lifespan is often limited by heart disease, which affects nearly all Cavaliers by age 10.
Do all Cavaliers get heart disease?
Nearly all Cavaliers develop Mitral Valve Disease (MVD). About 50% have heart murmurs by age 5, and nearly 100% are affected by age 10. Annual cardiac screenings are essential.
What is syringomyelia?
Syringomyelia occurs when the skull is too small for the brain, blocking spinal fluid flow and creating fluid pockets in the spinal cord. Up to 70% of Cavaliers have some degree of SM. Signs include phantom scratching and neck pain.
How can I tell if my Cavalier has syringomyelia?
Watch for "phantom scratching" at the neck/ear, yelping when picked up, sensitivity around the head/neck, and sleeping with head elevated. An MRI is required for definitive diagnosis.
What health tests should Cavalier breeders do?
Responsible breeders should perform cardiac evaluations, MRI screening for syringomyelia, eye exams, and patella/hip evaluations. Dogs should not be bred until at least 2.5 years old with clear heart exams.
Are Cavaliers good dogs despite health issues?
Cavaliers are beloved for their gentle, affectionate temperament. While health issues require vigilance and can be costly, many live happy lives with proper care. Budget for annual cardiac screenings and buy from health-tested parents.