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Why is my senior Cavalier sleeping constantly and acting depressed?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Cavalier King Charles Spaniel | Male | neutered | 11 years and 2 months old

Hi my cavelier boy 11yrs plus is sleeping most the time now. Day and night. He is eating ok now but since the loss of his sister in may he doesn't seem happy. Never now wants a cuddle now new thing not keen in going out for walks only with our daughters. If we take him out he drags behind us when used to pull to be a head of us but will only walk a little way and turns round and heads home. When my daughter's around he picks up and will get excited to go out. Is he still pinning for his sister?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Davis

Veterinarian

Published on August 12th, 2017

An eleven year old Cavelier is fairly old for that breed. They are prone to heart disease which could cause him to sleep a lot and not walk fast. He could be missing his sister but I'm concerned about a heart or medical problem. I would take him him for a senior exam and blood work. If he's just starting with a medical problem and it's treated he may gain back some energy and interest in life. Heart disease can be treated with good results with medication. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Buster.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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