Longevity
Life expectancy
With good living conditions, a suitable diet and regular veterinary follow-up, the Field-Spaniel generally lives between 12 and 14 years. Its decent longevity is observed especially in well-cared-for dogs, maintaining a stable weight and regular physical activity.
Build
A robust breed?
The Field Spaniel shows average to good robustness: it is able to sustain effort and to work in the field, but its rarity and certain breed sensitivities require serious selection and particular vigilance regarding the hips, the eyes and thyroid function.
Watch points
What to watch for
Prevention is based on a demanding breeding selection, weight control, regular activity and attention paid to the first locomotor or ocular signs. An active but well monitored dog generally maintains a good quality of life.
Hip dysplasia : A malformation of the hip joint that can lead to pain, lameness, and earlier joint wear.
Incomplete ossification of the humeral condyle : This elbow condition can cause forelimb pain and sometimes requires surgical management.
Eye conditions : Some lines may show disorders such as entropion or retinal atrophy, hence the value of ophthalmologic follow-up.
Hypothyroidism : Insufficient thyroid function can promote fatigue, weight gain, and coat changes.
Climate
Cold and heat tolerance
The Field Spaniel tolerates temperate and humid climates rather well, with good ease in cool weather thanks to its protective coat. It copes with heat a little better than some very heavily coated dogs, but it must still avoid sustained exertion during the hottest hours and always have water and shade available.
Weight
Tendency to gain weight
This active dog is not particularly known for a strong tendency to become overweight, but reduced exercise or poorly adjusted portions can quickly affect its condition. Maintaining an athletic build is important to preserve its joints and endurance.
Daily life
Good habits to keep it healthy
- Regularly check the condition of the ears after outings.
- Maintain a stable weight to preserve the joints.
- Have the eyes and locomotion monitored during veterinary visits.
- Favor a breeding program that carries out health screenings.
Vaccination
Field Spaniel vaccines: vaccination schedule
Which vaccines for a Field Spaniel? Like all cats, the Field Spaniel receives essential vaccines from 8 weeks old: Typhus (panleukopenia) and Coryza. The kitten primary vaccination for Field Spaniel is given in several injections 4 weeks apart, followed by a first booster at 1 year, even if it lives in an apartment. Depending on its lifestyle (outdoor access, multi-cat household, shows, travel), your veterinarian may complete the protocol with vaccines against Feline leukemia (FeLV), Rabies and Chlamydiosis.
| Vaccine | Primary series | First booster | Then | Who for? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Typhus (panleukopenia)Core Feline panleukopenia (cat parvovirus) | 8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | All pets |
CoryzaCore Feline herpesvirus and calicivirus | 8 weeks · 12 weeks · 3 months | 1 year | every year | All pets |
Feline leukemia (FeLV)Lifestyle-based Feline leukemia virus | 8 weeks · 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Outdoor cats, cats living in a group or in a cattery |
RabiesLifestyle-based Rabies | 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Mandatory for travel abroad, cat shows and most boarding kennels |
ChlamydiosisLifestyle-based Chlamydia felis (contagious conjunctivitis) | 8 weeks · 12 weeks | 1 year | every year | Cats living in groups, catteries, show cats |
Adult Field Spaniel vaccine boosters are annual for cat flu and leukemia if it goes outdoors; for panleukopenia, a booster every three years is often sufficient after the first booster. Your veterinarian will adjust the schedule to your cat’s lifestyle.
Which boosters for your Field Spaniel?
Enter your companion’s age: we list the vaccines to do now and the next boosters.
Adopting well
Adopting a healthy Field Spaniel
It is relevant to favor breeding dogs screened for hip dysplasia and monitored ophthalmologically, with attention also paid to thyroid function. Regular clinical examination also helps to detect early any possible joint discomfort.
This information is provided for guidance only and does not replace a veterinarian’s advice. If you have any concerns about your pet’s health, consult a professional.
