Feeding a Cavalier King Charles: Heart and Waistline First
Published by Planète Pets · managing editor: Clément Lacaille · how our guides are written
The Cavalier King Charles is a small spaniel of 5 to 8 kg, gentle and very greedy, and particularly prone to myxomatous mitral valve disease (degeneration of a heart valve). In this breed, excess weight strains an already fragile heart: keeping a healthy weight is part of the care. Cardiology studies of the breed stress how early and common this condition is. Find our basics in the dog food section.
Contents · 4 sections
A modest, weighed ration
Plan on roughly 80 to 130 g of kibble per day for a 6 to 7 kg adult, in two meals. This dog readily asks for more than it needs: its appetite is a trap. Weigh the ration, subtract treats from the daily total and check the silhouette regularly.
Supporting the heart without excess
Good body condition is the heart's first ally. Some senior or cardiac kibbles limit salt and add omega-3 fatty acids; their value should be discussed with the vet according to any disease stage. Above all avoid the salt overload of human processed foods. The same sobriety applies to a dog that must stay lean, as in feeding an active Border Collie, the opposite in energy needs but identical in ration discipline.
Transition and regularity
Change food gradually over seven to ten days to spare its digestion. Fixed meal times prevent grazing and make weight control easier.
Frequently asked questions
Does it need a special heart diet from adoption?
No: as long as no disease is diagnosed, a quality kibble and a healthy weight are enough. Cardiac diets are matched to the clinical stage.
How do you manage its greed?
Ration it, use counted low-calorie treats and favour scent games over food as a reward.
How many meals?
Two daily meals. See the Cavalier King Charles profile and the dog hub.
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This guide is part of Planète Pets’s Dogs universe. Our advice is general in nature: for any health concern, your veterinarian remains the only reference.