Syringomyelia (SM) is a serious neurological condition often associated with Chiari Malformation (CM) in Cavaliers. It is characterised by the formation of fluid-filled cavities, or syrinxes, within the spinal cord. CM is a structural abnormality at the back of the skull that disrupts normal cerebrospinal fluid flow, often contributing to the development of SM.

Efforts to Reduce CM/SM in Cavaliers

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) and The Kennel Club UK (KC) introduced a screening programme to help reduce the risk of passing CM/SM to future generations.

Diagnosis: CM/SM is identified through MRI scans, performed by operators following strict BVA protocols. The scans are reviewed by BVA-appointed scrutinisers, who assign a grade based on the severity of the condition.

Grading and Monitoring: Since CM/SM is a progressive condition, dogs are recommended to undergo scans at key stages of their life:

Complexity of CM/SM Inheritance

Despite best efforts, CM/SM inheritance is complex and unpredictable. It is possible for:

• Puppies from seemingly unaffected parents to develop the condition.
• Puppies from affected parents to be unaffected.

This unpredictability poses significant challenges for breeders striving to eliminate the condition entirely.

CameronCavs’ Approach

At CameronCavs, we currently do not test for CM/SM due to the condition’s complexity and the limitations of MRI screening. A negative scan result does not guarantee that offspring will remain unaffected, which complicates breeding decisions nor that the adult dog will develop the disease later in life. We will continue to closely monitor developments in CM/SM research and testing.