Episodic Falling Syndrome in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels

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Episodic falling syndrome (Ef) also known as muscle hypertonicity and hyperexplixia was diagnosed in the 1960’s, Episodic falling is a genetic disorder that has only been seen in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. This syndrome is life long, but rarely causes death. Ef is seen equally in males and females, usually between the ages of 2 months and 4 years. The disorder usually stays the same over time, not getting better nor getting worse as time progresses.

Symptoms:

  • Resembles a seizure, but is not classified as one
  • No loss of consciousness
  • Muscles unable to relax
  • Lose balance, footing, or coordination
  • Rigid gate
  • Hopping around like a rabbit
  • Rear legs stiffen or may hold front legs sill over the head
  • Jaw clenches shut

Triggers:

  • Exercise
  • Excitement
  • Stress
  • Heat

Recovery after an episode:

  • May be scared if is one of the first few episode the Cavalier has, he will learn to adapt to the episodes
  • Some have stiff symptoms afterwards
  • Some act totally normal, like nothing had ever happened

Diagnosis:

  • No diagnostic test available
  • Based on symptoms - video tape or keep a journal describing the episodes

Treatments:

  • Medications may help: diazepam, clonazepam - the dog may develop a tolerance toward the medications.

What can I do?

  • Contact your veterinarian if you think suspect Ef
  • Get educated and educate all who are involved in the dog’s life
  • Look into purchasing a cooling mat - Canine Cooler - when the jaw locks the dog can’t pant. This is extremely harmful especially if the episode was brought on by heat, the Cavalier has no way to cool itself. A Canine cooler my help cool the Cavalier down.  (photo of a canine cooler,  click on photo for more details)
  • Video tape the episodes and keep a journal recording information such as time, place, how long the episode lasted, and what the Cavalier was doing to show your veterinarian. These can aide in diagnosing the disorder.

During an episode:

  • Keep calm - your fear can scare the Cavalier and make matters worse
  • Show love; talk calmly, and in soothing tones to the Cavalier
  • Learn to live with it

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