Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Vet in San Jose — ARCH Veterinary
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are affectionate companions with two breed-defining medical concerns: mitral valve disease (the leading cause of death) and syringomyelia (a painful neurological condition). ARCH Veterinary in San Jose provides careful cardiac monitoring, pain management, and breed-specific wellness planning.
Mitral valve disease — the #1 concern
More than half of Cavaliers develop mitral valve disease by age 5, and nearly all by age 10. We listen carefully for heart murmurs at every visit, recommend baseline chest X-rays and echocardiogram when a murmur is detected, and start pimobendan (Vetmedin) at the right stage to extend life by an average of 15 months.
Syringomyelia and Chiari-like malformation
The Cavalier skull is often too small for the brain, leading to fluid-filled cavities in the spinal cord. Signs include air-scratching at the neck or shoulder, yelping when picked up, scratching without making contact, and sensitivity around the head. MRI is the gold-standard diagnostic; gabapentin, omeprazole, and steroids manage most cases.
Other breed concerns
Patellar luxation, hip dysplasia, dry eye, ear infections from their floppy ears, and primary secretory otitis media (PSOM, 'glue ear') are all common. Brachycephalic features in some lines can affect breathing in heat.
Wellness priorities at ARCH
Twice-yearly exams from age 4 with cardiac auscultation, annual bloodwork, dental cleanings (small breed teeth crowd quickly), regular ear checks, and prompt evaluation of any neurologic signs.
Advanced veterinary care in San Jose
ARCH Veterinary provides advanced care for pets across San Jose and the surrounding South Bay, with urgent care, emergency medicine, surgery, CT imaging, ultrasound, and hospitalization all under one roof. Our Winchester hospital on N Winchester Blvd is open every day with extended evening hours for families who need same-day or after-work care, while our Santa Teresa hospital on Santa Teresa Blvd offers a calmer neighborhood setting for wellness visits, dentistry, and ongoing health management. Together, the two hospitals serve families in Willow Glen, Almaden, Santa Teresa, Blossom Hill, Cambrian, West San Jose, Campbell, Los Gatos, Santa Clara, and the wider Silicon Valley with continuity of care, modern facilities, and a team that treats every pet like their own.
Frequently asked questions
What's the lifespan of a Cavalier?
Typically 9–14 years, with mitral valve disease the most common cause of death.
When should I start cardiac monitoring?
Annual auscultation from puppyhood; when a murmur is heard, an echocardiogram helps stage the disease and decide when to start medication.
What does syringomyelia look like?
Air-scratching at the neck or shoulder, yelping for no reason, sensitivity around the head, and unwillingness to be picked up or wear collars.
Should I get pet insurance?
Strongly recommend it for Cavaliers, given the cost of long-term cardiac and neurologic care. Enroll early, before any conditions develop.