Cava-Tzus Pet Insurance | Compare Prices & Policies | Savvy

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Find out all about Cava-Tzus and their common health conditions, then compare pet insurance options from some of Australia’s leading insurers.

Written by , updated on October 6th, 2023

Price range

$450 – $3,500

Height

25–33cm

Weight

5–8kg

Personality

Affectionate, intelligent, alert

Coat length

Medium, dense

Exercise needs

Low to moderate

Kid-friendly?

Yes

Life expectancy

12–15 years

Overview

Cava-Tzus, a designer crossbreed between Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and Shih Tzus, are increasingly popular pets in Australia. With traits inherited from both parent breeds, these small fluffy dogs are characterised by their affectionate and friendly nature, making them wonderful family pets.

With their moderate energy levels, Cava-Tzus enjoy playtime and short walks, but they are also content lounging indoors. They are also known for being intelligent and trainable and they tend to get along well with children and other pets. This adaptable temperament allows them to thrive in various living situations, from busy families to retirees seeking a loyal friend.

Common diseases and conditions of Cava-Tzus

Mitral valve disease (MVD): this heart condition is common in small dog breeds, including Cava-Tzus. It affects the mitral valve’s function, leading to blood flow issues.
Syringomyelia: inherited from the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel parent, this condition involves fluid-filled cavities forming near the spinal cord, which can lead to pain and neurological problems.
Brachycephalic syndrome: this can occur if the Cava-Tzu inherits the shorter muzzle of the Shih Tzu parent, leading to breathing difficulties.
Hip dysplasia: this is a genetic condition where the hip joint doesn't develop properly, potentially causing discomfort and mobility issues.
Eye conditions: both parent breeds can be prone to various eye issues, so regular eye check-ups are important.

Breed-specific issues:

Due to their friendly disposition, Cava-Tzus generally get along well with both familiar faces and strangers. However, early socialisation is key to ensure they are well-adjusted around new people and situations. The dogs are intelligent and benefit from mental stimulation, as they can become bored easily if not provided with engaging activities. Additionally, like many small breeds, they may be prone to developing “small dog syndrome”, a condition where they display bossy or overly protective behaviours. Consistent, positive training methods are crucial to manage this tendency.

How much does pet insurance cost for a Cava-Tzu?

There are many factors that can influence the cost of pet insurance for your Cava-Tzu, including the following:

Age: the older your dog is, the more pet insurance is likely to cost. This is because older dogs tend to have more physical health conditions and illnesses due to age, and so present a higher insurance risk.
Type of insurance you choose: there are three basic types of pet insurance available in Australia; accident-only, accident and illness, and comprehensive insurance. An accident-only policy is the cheapest type available, with comprehensive coverage costing the most.
The policy annual limit: each pet insurance policy has an annual limit, which is the maximum amount that will be paid out on the policy in one financial year. Annual limits range from around $10,000 up to $25,000 or more.
Sub limits: in addition to an annual limit, there may also be sub limits that apply to the policy, for example a $300 sub limit for consultation fees, or a $5,000 limit for cruciate ligament conditions.
Benefit percentage: pet insurance may not cover 100% of the cost of your vet bill. Instead, it may pay a percentage of the total bill. This can range from 50% for cheaper policies up to 90% for top-of-the-range cover.
Excess amount: this is the amount you’ll need to pay out-of-pocket each time you make a claim on your policy. Some pet insurance policies do not come with an excess amount, while others do.
Any add-ons you choose: it’s possible to add on more cover options to a basic policy, such as emergency boarding fees, routine care and dental care. These add-ons extend the scope of your pet insurance, but do increase the overall cost of the policy.
Discounts: some insurers offer discounts of between 5% and 15% if you have multiple pets insured together, if you pay your premium annually, or if you bundle your pet insurance with other forms of insurance with the same company.

Types of pet insurance you can choose from

Accident-only

This is the most basic type of pet insurance, covering costs for accidental injuries such as car accidents, poisoning, burns, fractures, snake and spider bites, but not illnesses and other conditions.

Accident and illness

This type of insurance provides cover for accidental injuries as well as illnesses like cancer, gastrointestinal problems and eye, ear and skin conditions, but not routine care for your pet.

Comprehensive

This offers the highest level of protection, covering accident and illness and potentially routine care such as vaccinations, dental care, worm and flea treatments and microchipping.

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Common questions about Cava-Tzus

How much grooming does a Cava-Tzu require?

The grooming needs of a Cava-Tzu can vary based on the individual coat. Some may have denser coats that require more attention, while others may have less maintenance-intensive coats. In general, it's recommended to brush them at least twice a week. Depending on the coat length, occasional trims may be necessary, especially around the ears. Baths should be given on an as-needed basis using a gentle canine shampoo to maintain skin health. Professional grooming may also be beneficial, especially for those less experienced in coat maintenance.

Do Cava-Tzus adapt well to apartment living?

Yes – Cava-Tzus are well-suited for apartment living. Their small size and adaptable nature make them comfortable in smaller spaces. It's important to provide them with regular exercise and mental stimulation, but with these needs met, they can thrive in an apartment setting.

Do Cava-Tzus require a lot of exercise?

No – Cava-Tzus have moderate exercise needs. While they enjoy daily walks and playtime, they're not overly demanding in terms of physical activity. They’re adaptable and can be content with indoor play on days when outdoor exercise is limited.

Are Cava-Tzus good for first-time dog owners?

Yes – Cava-Tzus can be a good choice for first-time dog owners. They generally have friendly dispositions and are adaptable to various living situations. With proper training, attention and socialisation, they can make excellent companions for individuals or families new to dog ownership.

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