Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are affectionate, gentle, and undeniably charming. Unfortunately, they’re also one of the breeds most prone to developing mitral valve disease (MVD)—a degenerative heart condition that affects the valve between the heart’s left chambers. Studies show that by the age of 10, nearly all Cavaliers will have some degree of this condition.
At 108 Avenue Animal Hospital, we regularly monitor this breed for early signs, as catching it early makes a big difference in long-term health and quality of life.
Subtle Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore
One of the biggest challenges with heart disease in Cavaliers is that it often progresses silently in the early stages. Many dogs won’t show obvious symptoms until the disease is advanced. That’s why it’s so important for owners to pay attention to subtle changes, including:
- A persistent, soft cough—especially at night or after activity
- Fatigue or decreased interest in exercise
- Mild shortness of breath or faster breathing
- Restlessness when lying down
- Less enthusiasm for walks or play
- Occasional fainting or collapsing (in more advanced cases)
Even if these signs seem minor, they could point to early cardiac stress. If you notice any of these, bring your pup in for an evaluation. The team at 108 Avenue Animal Hospital is experienced in breed-specific care and can guide you through next steps.
How Vets Detect Heart Disease Early
Routine check-ups are key for Cavaliers, even if they seem perfectly healthy. A veterinarian can often detect a heart murmur during a physical exam long before symptoms appear at home.
From there, we may recommend:
- Chest X-rays to evaluate heart size and lung condition
- Echocardiograms (ultrasound of the heart) to assess valve function
- Blood pressure monitoring
- Blood tests for heart-specific markers
At 108 Avenue Animal Hospital, we use advanced diagnostic tools and breed-specific screening protocols to catch MVD and other cardiac issues early—sometimes years before it becomes life-threatening.
Lifestyle Adjustments That Can Help
While mitral valve disease is progressive and currently has no cure, early intervention and management can slow its progression. Simple changes can make a big difference:
- Keep your dog at a healthy weight to reduce heart strain
- Provide low-sodium food if recommended by your vet
- Limit overly strenuous exercise, especially in warm weather
- Stick to regular vet visits for ongoing monitoring
- Use prescribed medications consistently if needed
Each case is unique, and our team at 108 Avenue Animal Hospital works closely with pet owners to create a personalized plan that supports your dog’s heart health.
Don’t Wait Until Symptoms Get Worse
The earlier heart disease is detected, the more options you have for treatment and slowing progression. Regular checkups are crucial—especially for breeds like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel that are genetically predisposed.
If you have a Cavalier or are considering adopting one, we recommend starting routine heart screenings by age 3. The goal is to catch changes before your dog ever feels them.
To schedule a wellness exam or cardiac check-up, call 108 Avenue Animal Hospital at (604) 581-1108. Our team understands the special needs of Cavaliers and is here to help keep their hearts as happy as their personalities.
