There are a number of Cavalier King Charles Spaniel health problems that you need to be aware of. Some of these diseases are common and do not pose a significant threat to your dog’s health, but others are more serious. You should always visit a veterinarian if you notice any of these symptoms.

MVD

MVD in King Charles Spaniels is a progressive disease that causes a murmur in the heart. It’s usually detected at an early age and treatment aims to alleviate symptoms. The symptoms of mitral valve disease vary from one dog to another. A physical examination and ultrasound evaluation of the heart are necessary to diagnose this condition. An electrocardiogram is also required to check the heart rhythm. Blood tests are not recommended for the diagnosis of MVD.

In early stages, there are no obvious symptoms. However, with the progression of the disease, the heart will become larger and work harder. Eventually, the heart will be unable to pump enough blood around the body. This results in heart failure. Symptoms of heart failure may be gradual, beginning as exercise intolerance. As the disease progresses, patients may experience coughing, fainting, and chest pain. Some dogs may die from the disease.

Although the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a popular breed of pet, its genetic make-up makes it prone to developing this disease. In fact, nearly 80% of Cavalier dogs will develop mitral valve disease by age 10 or 11. Early detection and treatment can help extend the dog’s life and ease the distress it causes.

The interval between Stage B2 and Stage C is often years, but some dogs may show no symptoms until Stage B2. During Stage B2, the veterinarian will start the dog on a drug called pimobendan, which reduces the pressure on the heart and slows the progression of the disease. Some vets may also prescribe a mild sodium restriction for dogs with MVD. Salty snacks are known to worsen the condition.

If a dog has a heart murmur, it can make it difficult for it to exercise or participate in sports. The extra work the heart needs to perform during exercise causes respiratory distress. This can cause shortness of breath and may even cause a dog to feel nausea. The dog may also cough and have trouble breathing. A dog with this condition may also be generally tired and sluggish.

Conjunctivitis

King Charles Spaniel conjunctivitus, also known as pink eye, is caused by an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin mucous membrane that lines the eyes. This can be accompanied by redness and discharge. A veterinarian can diagnose the condition by performing a Schirmer Tear Test (STT), which measures tear production. The veterinarian will also dilate the eye using special eye drops. This will allow him or her to examine the retina, optic nerve, and tapetum. He or she may also use fluorescein dye to detect any corneal ulcers.

While this condition is not life-threatening, it can be painful and severely affect a dog’s welfare. In severe cases, it can lead to blindness. It can also lead to generalized itchiness. If left untreated, KCS can lead to a range of complications, including ocular keratosis, corneal vascularization, and pigmentation. Deep corneal ulceration and opacification can result in blindness in this breed.

One of the most common causes of dog conjunctivitis is viral infection. This type of infection usually lasts for up to three weeks, and is highly contagious. Additionally, allergic reactions can cause conjunctivitis in dogs. Certain allergens can cause inflammation, including dust, mold, and dander. Also, exposure to smoke, perfume, and prescription drugs can also cause conjunctivitis.

Another common cause of conjunctivitis in King Charles Spaniel dogs is a genetic disease called congenital keratoconjunctivitis sicca. This type of keratoconjunctivitises occurs in dogs who carry a gene called FAM83H.

Heart failure

A physical examination can help you diagnose heart failure in a king Charles spaniel. It is a progressive disease that causes a narrowing of the heart valves. This can cause symptoms like coughing and panting. This condition also compromises the circulation of oxygenated blood throughout the body.

The most common cause is mitral valve disease. The mitral valve controls blood flow into the left ventricle. When it becomes thickened, it cannot close properly, and some blood is forced backwards from the high-pressure left ventricle into the smaller atrium. This leads to heart failure.

Once diagnosed, your veterinarian can prescribe medications that help control heart failure. They may prescribe a single drug or a combination of medications. Early treatment can maximize your dog’s lifespan and keep it healthy. If your pet develops heart failure, it’s important to get it checked as soon as possible.

King Charles spaniel breeders should be aware of the risk for heart failure. The condition can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. While many breeds have a mild temperament, the King Charles spaniel has a genetic variant associated with increased risk of developing heart failure. Symptoms of heart failure can include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and even death.

Heart failure in king Charles spanielus is characterized by a blocked blood flow through the heart. This causes backflow from the lungs and causes fluid to leak into the chest and lungs. This causes shortness of breath, coughing, and sputum that may be blood-tinged. The condition can also lead to reduced exercise tolerance.

While the genetic association between CKCS is not completely understood, there is a high breed-specific prevalence of MMVD. These changes in the heart may be related to pathways in the cardiovascular system. Further studies are needed to determine the functional role of these pathways in CKCS. However, the breed-specific genetic profile of CKCS may help to understand how this disease develops.

Obesity

Obesity is a major health problem that Cavalier King Charles Spaniels can face. It can cause a range of problems including digestive disorders, back pain, and even heart disease. Proper feeding and exercise are key to obesity prevention. Obese Cavalier King Charles Spaniels can also be prone to neurological diseases, such as seizures and tremors. They may also exhibit excessive sleeping or lack of energy.

Some Cavaliers are susceptible to ear problems. These dogs can develop a severe mucus plug in the middle ear, also known as “glue ear”. The tympanic membrane can also become enlarged due to this condition. This condition affects about half the Cavalier breed.

According to Dr. Carol Osborne, integrative veterinarian at the Chagrin Falls Pet Clinic in Ohio, being 10% overweight can shorten a dog’s life by one-third and increase its risk for heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis. Even worse, obesity increases your dog’s risk of cancer, which is the number one killer of dogs today.

Another common health issue affecting Cavalier King Charles Spaniels is dental disease. It’s common in dogs, and over half of Cavalier King Charles Spaniels will develop it by age two. This problem is often the result of a genetic defect. If it is not treated early, it can affect the heart, liver, and kidneys. It can even cause the dog to lose their teeth.