Rabies Virus Antigen Test - rapid saliva screening for rabies (dog & cat)

The Rabies Virus Antigen Test from Pet Pharma is a rapid screening test that allows you to check whether your dog or cat may have rabies virus antigen in its saliva. Rabies is a serious viral disease that affects the nervous system and can be transmitted to animals and humans through infected saliva, usually following a bite or scratch. The test provides a preliminary result within 10 minutes, allowing you to quickly seek the necessary professional assistance.

What is rabies?

Rabies is a zoonotic viral disease that can affect mammals, including dogs and cats. The virus is mainly transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal. Possible signs include sudden changes in behaviour, aggression, unusual fearfulness, weakness, difficulty swallowing, excessive salivation, loss of coordination, paralysis or seizures. Once clinical symptoms appear, rabies is almost always fatal. Suspected exposure must therefore always be treated as an emergency.

How does the test work?

The test detects rabies virus antigen in a saliva sample from your dog or cat. Collect the sample with the provided swab and place it in the sample collection tube. Rotate and squeeze the swab in the liquid for at least 10 seconds, then apply 3 drops to the test cassette. Read the result after 10 minutes. Results read after 30 minutes may no longer be valid.

Benefits of the Rabies Virus Antigen Test (Dog & Cat):

• Preliminary result within approximately 10 minutes
• Suitable for both dogs and cats
• Uses a saliva sample
• No additional laboratory equipment required
• Clear test lines for easy interpretation
• Suitable for preliminary screening by pet owners and veterinary professionals

When to use the test?

The test may be used as an initial screening tool after possible contact with an animal suspected of carrying rabies or when your dog or cat develops symptoms that may be associated with the disease. Do not attempt to collect saliva if the animal is aggressive, distressed or difficult to handle. Avoid direct contact with the animal's mouth and saliva and contact a vet or the relevant local authority immediately.

A rapid saliva test cannot independently confirm or exclude rabies. A positive, negative or invalid result must not delay professional assessment or influence whether a person receives medical care following a possible exposure. Official rabies diagnosis requires specialised laboratory testing.

Package contents:

• 1 test cassette
• 1 saliva collection swab
• 1 sample collection tube with diluent
• Instructions for use

Rapid preliminary screening for dogs and cats
With the Rabies Virus Antigen Test from Pet Pharma, you receive a preliminary indication of rabies virus antigen in your dog or cat's saliva within approximately 10 minutes. The test is quick and straightforward, but suspected rabies exposure must always be handled as an emergency - contact a vet and the relevant authorities immediately and never rely on the rapid test alone.