Eyes

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club is delighted to report that Hereditary Cataract is now very rarely seen in the breed and it would appear from results in 2020 that Multifocal Retinal Dysplasia (MRD) is also heading in the right direction.

Multifocal Retinal Dysplasia (MRD)

MRD is congenital in origin and can be diagnosed on ophthalmoscopic examination of puppies from around 5 weeks of age onwards. The development of pigment in the retinal tissues from 8-10 weeks of age can lead to alterations in the appearance of MRD, sometimes making the condition more or less easy to diagnose. The condition can vary greatly with a few folds or rosettes being the commonest finding. Unlike some breeds there have not been any reported cases of retinal detachment in the Cavalier. The effects on vision are variable depending upon the extent of abnormality present. A few folds can be counted as a minor defect for a pet owner not wishing to breed, but severe MRD with retinal detachment should be of concern. The condition is believed to be inherited by recessive mode.

Hereditary Cataract

Hereditary Cataract may be seen in dogs as young as 6-9 months of age but may not be apparent until the dog is several years old. Progression of the cataract to involve the majority of the lens and cause vision impairment is the usual course of events. As with MRD the abnormality is normally seen in both eyes. The mode of inheritance is unknown.

Sample BVA Eye Form

You should see a copy of this certificate from both parents before purchasing your puppy