Cleft Palate

What is Cleft Palate (CP)?

In essence, CP is an opening located on the roof of a puppy’s mouth. This occurs due to an abnormal formation of the bones within the roof the mouth. Unfortunately, puppies that have this condition will not be able to nurse. This can take affect when the puppy is as young as day old. Typically, if the pup is not bottle fed they may not survive.

Symptoms

Pups with this condition may leak milk from their nose as they nurse or suck it into their nasal passages. As a result, the pup becomes susceptible to pneumonia and sinusitis. You will also notice that the pup has difficulties sucking on the mother's nipple.

Causes

This condition is believed to be inherited or passed on by the parents. In addition, this is common among puppies of diabetic parents. This disorder has also been associated with a vitamin B-12 deficiency and viral infections at early stages of pregnancy in the mother. Specific doses of antihistamines given early on in the pregnancy have also been related to this condition.

Treatments and Prevention

If the opening in the roof of the mouth is not severe, surgery can be performed in order to correct the problem. Unfortunately, if the opening is too large there is nothing that can be done. In this case, the owner must consult with their vet and “putting the animal down” is commonly advised.

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Cleft Palate