"Cleft palate" is a birth defect where the roof of the mouth does not fully close. This can cause problems with eating, speaking, and sometimes breathing. Full definition
ASHG 2014: Scientists Identify Mutation Associated with Cleft Palate in Humans and Dogs ASHG Press Release — October 19, 2014 (ashg.org)
This article originally appeared on Dr. Mahaney's The Daily Vet column on PetMD as Cleft Palate in Dogs Awareness. (patrickmahaney.com)
Q: Dr. Mike: Could you tell me which toxins might be the cause of cleft palate in puppies and what other environmental conditions might also contribute to this problem. (vetinfo.com)