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Posted: 3rd April 2025

Project to research syringomyelia in Cavalier King Charles spaniels
Syringomyelia can lead to weakness and mobility issues.
The five-year project will gather data on the neurological condition.

The Kennel Club is to begin a new five-year project, collecting data on syringomyelia in Cavalier King Charles spaniels.

The study, launched in partnership with the British Veterinary Association (BVA), will investigate syringomyelia, inform breeding strategies and ultimately work to improve the long-term health of the breed.

Syringomyelia is a serious neurological condition, which is caused by fluid-filled cavities developing in the spinal cord. It is often caused by abnormalities in dogs’ skull and neck area.

Dogs afflicted with the condition experience symptoms including neck pain, sensitivity, reluctance to jump and phantom scratching. In severe cases, syringomyelia can lead to weakness and mobility issues.

The project will seek to screen 500 Cavalier King Charles spaniels over the next five years, gathering data through MRI scans.

The data will be used to develop Estimated Breeding Values (EBVs) to inform breeding practices of the dogs. These EBVs would help breeders to consider multiple genetic factors, which could in turn reduce the number of complex inherited conditions.

Cavalier King Charles spaniels will be invited to take part in the project based on their age and genetic contribution to the breed.

As an incentive, owners of participating dogs will receive a subsidy towards MRI screening. Instead of the typical cost of an MRI scan, owners will pay £200 to take part in the project.

Selected participants will be contacted by The Kennel Club, with many invitations already sent out. They will be invited to book their MRI appointments at participating centres, with the expert panel set to review the results.

As part of the appointments, veterinary surgeons will also be collecting DNA samples to support genetic research into syringomyelia.

Charlotte McNamara, head of health and breeder development at The Kennel Club, added: “This project is a major step forward in our efforts to reduce the prevalence of syringomyelia in Cavaliers. By gathering robust data, with the potential of developing EBVs, we can support breeders in making informed decisions to protect future generations of this breed.

“We are incredibly grateful to The Kennel Club Charitable Trust, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Rescue & Welfare for their support and commitment.”

Image © Shutterstock



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