Identifying and treating heart disease in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels

Abstract

Myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) is the most common acquired heart disease in dogs. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is predisposed to myxomatous mitral valve disease and overrepresented in epidemiological studies. They are high risk for an early onset of the disease, and it is more likely to progress. The exact cause is unknown, which makes early diagnosis and treatment crucial. A consensus statement has been produced by the American College of Veterinary Medicine which has classified myxomatous mitral valve disease into four different stages and provides guidance on diagnosis and treatment. While treatment is now recommended at the preclinical phase of myxomatous mitral valve disease, time to cardiac death from the onset of heart failure remains at approximately 11–12 months. However, myxomatous mitral valve disease is a variable disease, and not all dogs will progress to heart failure.