How does a vet test a cat for rabies?

Answer by  jems (194)

There is no definitive test for rabies in a living cat. A sample of brain tissue must be tested and that required euthanization of the cat. If rabies is suspected, the cat may be quarantined and observed for symptoms. Or, bodily fluids like saliva and spinal fluid may be tested for indications of the disease.

Answer by  antrobus (140)

The vet will take a sample of your cat's blood and look at it under a microscope. They look for evidence of the disease, or the anti-bodies.

Answer by  keiki (1376)

Vets can't test a live cat for rabies, the animal has to be dead because its brain needs to be examined to see if it had rabies. The best way to make sure your cat doesn't get rabies is to vaccinate it.

Answer by  lumofny93 (43)

A vet, or DVM, will use either a medical test strip along with a cats saliva, or, as a more intrusive measure, will take a blood sample and test it under a microscope.