The Complete Guide to the Titer Test for Cats and Dogs
What is the titer test?
A titer test (spelt “titre” in the UK) is a diagnostic lab test. It measures the level of antibodies circulating in the blood. These antibodies are produced when antigens (like a virus or bacteria) produce a response from the immune system. How is the titer test done?
It’s a simple procedure where a small sample of blood is drawn from the animal. The sample is diluted, and the antibodies are measured. The titer level is expressed as a ratio – revealing how many times the blood can be diluted before no antibodies are detected. What does a titer test show?
The titer test results reveal the level of antibodies circulating in the animal’s blood. The response is either from exposure directly to the antigen or from a vaccination. Antibodies that are produced defend the pet’s body against the disease. What can the titer test show?
One titer test can reveal antibodies for:
Rabies Lyme decease Babesia Gibsoni Leishmaniosis Parvo virus