Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Feeding Chart: Portions by Age and Weight

Cavaliers are gentle toy spaniels with two major breed concerns: mitral valve disease (MVD — affects most Cavaliers eventually) and syringomyelia. Feeding emphasizes lean body, cardiac support, and avoiding obesity.

Daily portion guide (adult)

Adult weight	Low activity	Moderate activity
13 lb (6 kg)	½ cup	⅔ cup
16 lb (7 kg)	⅔ cup	¾ cup
18 lb (8 kg)	¾ cup	1 cup

Split into 2 meals. Reduce 10% for neutered.

Puppy (8 weeks - 10 months)

Small-breed puppy formula. 3-4 meals until 4 months, then 2-3.

Senior (7+ years — Cavaliers age into MVD often)

Reduce 10%. Cardiac diet considerations may apply once MVD is diagnosed (your cardiologist may recommend lower-sodium prescription diet at certain stages).

What makes feeding a Cavalier different

MVD reality. Most Cavaliers develop mitral valve disease eventually. Early stages — no diet changes needed beyond lean body. Stage B2+ (heart enlargement) — cardiologist may recommend lower-sodium diet (typically ≤100 mg sodium / 100 kcal). Don’t switch on your own — consult vet.

Lean body condition is cardio-protective. Excess weight stresses the heart and worsens MVD progression.

Mild brachy. Less severe than Pugs / Frenchies but slow-feeder still recommended. Eye-prominent face — eat-area cleanup helps.

SM (syringomyelia) considerations. Diet doesn’t directly affect, but lean body reduces stress on the spine and overall systemic load.

Common breed concerns and feeding

MVD: lean weight + cardiologist-guided diet at advanced stages.
SM: lean weight reduces systemic stress; diet otherwise not specific.
Obesity: rigorous portion control.
Brachy-lite: slow-feeder.

Sample daily routine

Adult Cavalier, 16 lb:

7am: ⅓ cup breakfast (slow feeder)
7:30am: 20-min walk
5pm: 20-min walk
6pm: ⅓ cup dinner

What to track in Flok

Cardiac symptoms (cough, tiring on walks, fainting).
Weight monthly.
Skin folds / eye discharge.
Neurologic signs (scratching air, yelping — possible SM).

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FAQ

Should I feed a low-sodium diet to my Cavalier?

Only if cardiologist recommends (typically once MVD reaches stage B2 or beyond). Healthy Cavaliers — standard quality diet with lean body condition.

My Cavalier yelps and scratches at the air — what is that?

Possible syringomyelia. Vet evaluation including MRI — common in the breed. Diet doesn’t fix it, but treatment options exist.

Are Cavaliers easy keepers?

Yes — gain weight easily. Strict portions and counted treats matter.

Sources

This is a general guide. Caloric needs vary by individual. Consult your vet for personalized portions. Last reviewed: 2026-04-28.

This is a general guide. Caloric needs vary by individual, neuter status, activity, and life stage. Consult your vet for personalized portions. Last reviewed: 28 April 2026.