Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are a very popular breed, and no wonder! They are the most loving little dogs. They are also one of the breeds that suffers from Syringomyelia, a very serious inherited disease that manifests itself usually between the ages of 6 months and 3 years (but can show up at any age).

The main problem with Syringomyelia diagnosis is that the signs can be very non specific, mimicking signs of ear disease. The common symptoms include scratching around the head and neck, face rubbing and yelping. The signs are due to a fluid filled area around the spinal cord which leads to nerve generated pain that becomes increasingly worse with time.

Syringomyelia is inherited; there are genetic tests that can be done but unfortunately not all breeding animals are screened for the disease.

If your Cavalier is exhibiting any of these vague signs a check at Pet Doctors is recommended!