Cleft palate
Also known as: Gaumenspalte · Palatoschisis · Lippen-Kiefer-Gaumenspalte · Cleft Lip and Palate · Cheilognathopalatoschisis · …
Overview
What it is
A cleft palate is a congenital birth defect where the roof of the mouth fails to fuse properly during development in the womb. This failure leaves an abnormal opening between the oral cavity and the nasal passages. Because these two systems are directly connected, food, liquids, and air cannot be properly separated during swallowing.
How it presents
Symptoms are visible immediately at birth, as affected puppies struggle to nurse and often have milk bubble out of their nose. Owners will also notice coughing, gagging, and an inability to create the suction needed to suckle.
Treatment
The condition is treatable through reconstructive surgery, usually performed when the puppy is a few months old, combined with temporary tube-feeding. This is typically a one-time corrective procedure, with costs ranging from 1,500 to 6,000 EUR depending on the complexity of the cleft.
How it's tested
Klinische Untersuchung der Mundhöhle(Klinische Untersuchung)
Primary testClinical examEine visuelle und manuelle Inspektion der Mundhöhle direkt nach der Geburt durch einen Tierarzt zur Feststellung einer Spaltbildung im harten oder weichen Gaumen.
Issuing body: vet
Affected breeds
24 of 36 breeds
BriardRecommended standard
Chow ChowRecommended standard
Dutch Shepherd (Longhair)Recommended standard
Dutch Shepherd (Wire-Haired)Recommended standard
German HoundRecommended standard
JagdterrierRecommended standard
Korean JindoRecommended standard
Norwegian BuhundRecommended standard
Tibetan SpanielRecommended standard
BeauceronAlso recommended
Berger PicardAlso recommended
Boston TerrierAlso recommended
Brittany SpanielAlso recommended
ChiweenieAlso recommended
DachshundAlso recommended
DoxiepooAlso recommended
French BulldogAlso recommended
FrenchtonAlso recommended
German ShepherdAlso recommended
Labrador RetrieverAlso recommended
MalteseAlso recommended
Miniature SchnauzerAlso recommended
MorkieAlso recommended
Old English SheepdogAlso recommended
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment costs. Actual costs depend on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked questions
What is Cleft palate?
A cleft palate is a congenital birth defect where the roof of the mouth fails to fuse properly during development in the womb. This failure leaves an abnormal opening between the oral cavity and the nasal passages. Because these two systems are directly connected, food, liquids, and air cannot be properly separated during swallowing.
How is Cleft palate tested?
Tests currently in our database: Klinische Untersuchung der Mundhöhle.
Which breeds are most affected?
Most commonly affected: Briard, Chow Chow, Dutch Shepherd (Longhair), Dutch Shepherd (Wire-Haired), German Hound, Jagdterrier, Korean Jindo, Norwegian Buhund.