Understanding Syringomyelia in Dogs

Have you noticed your dog scratching at their neck or shoulder without even touching the skin? Or maybe they’re yelping when their head is gently touched, or moving stiffly when excited? These can be signs of syringomyelia (SM), a condition where fluid-filled cavities form inside the spinal cord, causing pain and neurological symptoms that range from subtle to severe. It’s one of the more painful conditions a dog can experience, and early recognition makes a real difference.

What is syringomyelia in dogs?

Syringomyelia (SM) refers to fluid-filled cavities called syrinxes that form within the spinal cord. It’s most often caused by a condition called Chiari-like malformation (CLM), where the skull is too small for the brain, forcing brain tissue down into the spinal canal and disrupting the normal flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), the fluid that cushions the brain and spinal cord. That disruption in fluid flow is what leads to the formation of syrinxes, and those syrinxes are what cause pain and neurological symptoms.

CLM is extremely common in certain breeds. In Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, MRI studies estimate that up to 95% are affected by CLM to some degree, though not all go on to develop syringomyelia. Other at-risk breeds include Brussels Griffons, Chihuahuas, Yorkshire Terriers, and Maltese.

Syringomyelia symptoms in dogs

Symptoms of syringomyelia can be subtle at first but often become more noticeable as the condition worsens. Here’s what to watch for:

• Phantom scratching: Scratching their neck, shoulder, or ear without making contact with the skin.
• Yelping or sensitivity: Crying out when touched on the head, neck, or back.
• Neck or back pain: Trouble moving their neck, stiffness, or discomfort during activity.
• Weakness or unsteady movement: Shaky or uncoordinated walking, especially in the limbs.
• Facial rubbing or head shaking: Repeated rubbing of their face on furniture or excessive head shaking.
• Worsening symptoms: Symptoms may intensify with excitement, exercise, or changes in air pressure.

If your dog shows any of these symptoms, don’t delay consulting your vet. Syringomyelia is one of the more painful conditions in dogs, and early intervention can make a big difference.

What causes syringomyelia in dogs?

The primary cause of syringomyelia in dogs is Chiari-like malformation (CLM), where the skull is too small for the brain. This structural issue disrupts the normal flow of cerebrospinal fluid, leading to the formation of syrinxes in the spinal cord. While genetics play a significant role, some dogs develop syringomyelia without an identifiable cause.

Breeds like Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Brussels Griffons, and Chihuahuas are predisposed, but any dog can theoretically develop the condition.

Diagnosing syringomyelia in dogs

To confirm a diagnosis of syringomyelia, your vet will likely recommend an MRI. This imaging test provides a clear view of both the brain and spinal cord to identify Chiari-like malformation and syrinxes.

Before an MRI, your vet may conduct a neurological exam to assess symptoms like pain, limb weakness, or coordination. While the MRI is essential for diagnosis, the overall clinical picture (based on symptoms and examination findings – helps determine the severity and best course of action.

Treatment options for syringomyelia

There’s no cure for syringomyelia, but many dogs respond well to management strategies. Your vet will likely tailor treatment based on your dog’s symptoms and severity of the condition:

• Pain management: Medications like gabapentin or pregabalin can target nerve pain. Anti-inflammatory drugs like corticosteroids or NSAIDs may also help.
• Reducing CSF pressure: Omeprazole is sometimes used off-label to help reduce cerebrospinal fluid production and ease pressure on the spinal cord, though its effectiveness can vary and your vet will advise whether it’s appropriate for your dog.
• Surgery: In advanced or unmanageable cases, foramen magnum decompression, a procedure that relieves pressure on the brain and spinal cord by creating more space at the base of the skull, may be recommended. It doesn’t always eliminate syrinxes directly, but it can restore more normal CSF flow, slow disease progression, and meaningfully improve quality of life.

Surgery requires ongoing monitoring and a structured post-operative recovery plan. Relapses in symptoms are possible, so close collaboration with your vet is key.

Syringomyelia prognosis and quality of life

The outlook for syringomyelia varies. Some dogs with mild cases live comfortably for years with medication alone. For dogs with more severe cases, surgery might provide significant relief, though it’s rarely a complete resolution. In progressive cases, the focus often shifts to maintaining quality of life through pain management and regular reassessments.

If you’re ever unsure whether your dog’s current care plan is working, don’t hesitate to go back to your vet. Adjustments over time are normal and expected with this condition.

Is syringomyelia covered by pet insurance?

Yes, syringomyelia is covered under Lemonade Pet’s base accident and illness policy, as long as it isn’t pre-existing. That includes eligible costs like MRIs, medications, and surgery, which are often part of managing this condition.

Getting a policy in place while your dog is symptom-free is the clearest path to making sure you’re covered. If signs of syringomyelia appear before your policy is active or your waiting periods pass, the condition will typically be considered pre-existing and won’t be eligible for coverage.

Before we go

A syringomyelia diagnosis is a lot to take in, especially if your dog is already showing signs of pain. But there are real management options here, and many dogs do well for years with the right care in place. Stay proactive, work closely with your vet, and know that adjusting the plan as your dog’s needs change is part of managing this condition well.

Frequently Asked Questions

A few quick words, because we <3 our lawyers: This post is general in nature, and any statement in it doesn’t alter the terms, conditions, exclusions, or limitations of the policies issued, which differ according to your state of residence. You’re encouraged to discuss your specific circumstances with your own professional advisors. The purpose of this post is merely to provide you with info and insights you can use to make such discussions more productive! Naturally, all comments by, or references to, third parties represent their own views, and Lemonade assumes no responsibility for them. Coverage may not be available in all states. Please note that statements about coverages, policy management, claims processes, Giveback, and customer support apply to policies underwritten by Lemonade Insurance Company or Metromile Insurance Company, a Lemonade company, sold by Lemonade Insurance Agency, LLC.  The statements do not apply to policies underwritten by other carriers.