Dog Breeds / Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Best Pet Insurance for Cavalier King Charles Spaniels (2026)
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are sweet, gentle companions with unfortunately serious health concerns. Heart disease affects nearly all Cavaliers by age 10, and syringomyelia (a painful brain condition) is common. Insurance is essential.
See Top Picks →🏆 Our Top Picks for Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
Trupanion
Best for chronic heart conditions
Healthy Paws
Best unlimited coverage
Embrace
Best overall protection
Why Cavalier King Charles Spaniels Need Insurance
Cavaliers have the highest rates of serious illness among small breeds. Heart treatment can cost $20,000+, and syringomyelia may require MRI ($2,000) and surgery. Insurance is mandatory for this breed.
Common Health Issues & Costs
| Condition | What It Is | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Mitral Valve Disease | Heart disease (nearly 100% by age 10) | $5,000 - $20,000 |
| Syringomyelia | Brain/spinal condition | $5,000 - $10,000 |
| Cataracts | Hereditary eye condition | $2,500 - $5,000 |
| Luxating Patella | Kneecap dislocation | $1,500 - $3,500 |
| Hip Dysplasia | Joint malformation | $3,000 - $6,000 |
| Ear Infections | Chronic infections | $100 - $300/episode |
What to Look For in Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Insurance
✓ Must-Have Coverage
- Heart condition coverage — MVD affects virtually all Cavaliers
- Neurological coverage — Syringomyelia is common and painful
- Ongoing medication coverage — Heart meds are lifelong
- No breed-specific exclusions
✗ Red Flags to Avoid
- Heart condition exclusions or caps
- Neurological condition exclusions
- Low annual limits (need $15,000+ minimum)
- Pre-existing condition traps
Best Insurance Providers for Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
Trupanion
Best for Heart Conditions
$55-85/mo
estimated monthly
Trupanion's one-deductible-per-condition model is perfect for MVD. Pay once, then 90% coverage for all future heart treatment—for life.
Pros
- No payout limits
- One deductible per condition for life
- Covers cardiac medications
- Direct vet payment
Cons
- Only 90% reimbursement
- Higher premiums
Healthy Paws
Best Unlimited Coverage
$48-75/mo
estimated monthly
No caps means your Cavalier's heart treatment, neurological care, and any other issues are fully covered. Essential for a high-risk breed.
Pros
- No annual or lifetime limits
- Covers hereditary conditions
- Fast claims processing
- No per-condition caps
Cons
- No wellness coverage
- May exclude SM if documented early
Embrace
Best Overall Protection
$50-80/mo
estimated monthly
Embrace covers hereditary conditions with good prescription coverage for ongoing heart medications. Solid all-around choice for Cavaliers.
Pros
- Covers hereditary conditions
- Good prescription coverage
- 6-month orthopedic wait
- Diminishing deductible
Cons
- Annual limits may be insufficient
- Higher premiums for Cavaliers
How Much Does Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Insurance Cost?
Cavaliers have higher premiums due to their serious health risks. Here's what to expect:
Puppy (8 weeks - 1 year)
$38 - $60/month
Adult (1-7 years)
$48 - $80/month
Senior (8+ years)
$75 - $130+/month
* Estimates based on average rates. Actual cost depends on your location, chosen deductible, reimbursement level, and coverage limits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do Cavaliers have so many heart problems?
Cavaliers have a genetic predisposition to Mitral Valve Disease (MVD). Studies show virtually all Cavaliers develop heart murmurs by age 10, with many showing signs much earlier. It's the leading cause of death in the breed.
What is syringomyelia?
Syringomyelia (SM) is a condition where the skull is too small for the brain, forcing spinal fluid into the spinal cord. It causes severe pain, scratching at the air, and neurological symptoms. Up to 70% of Cavaliers are affected.
Is pet insurance worth it for a Cavalier?
Absolutely essential. Cavaliers have the highest rates of serious illness among small breeds. Heart treatment can cost $20,000+. Insurance is mandatory for this breed.
When should I insure my Cavalier?
Immediately as a puppy—this is crucial. Heart murmurs and SM symptoms can appear as early as age 1-2. Once documented, they become pre-existing conditions. Early insurance is essential.
What annual limit do I need for a Cavalier?
We recommend unlimited coverage or at least $15,000+ annually. Heart disease and syringomyelia are expensive, ongoing conditions. Low limits will be exhausted quickly.
Protect Your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavaliers need comprehensive insurance coverage. Don't wait—compare quotes and protect your pup before heart issues develop.
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