What tests are there for rabies in cats? - briefly
Rabies in cats is typically diagnosed postmortem through direct fluorescent antibody (DFA) testing of brain tissue, as there are no reliable tests for live animals.
What tests are there for rabies in cats? - in detail
Rabies in cats is a severe and fatal viral disease that requires accurate and timely diagnosis. Several tests are available to confirm rabies infection, each with specific protocols and applications. The most definitive method for diagnosing rabies is the direct fluorescent antibody test (DFA), which is considered the gold standard. This test involves examining brain tissue samples for the presence of rabies virus antigens. A fluorescent antibody is applied to the sample, and if the virus is present, it binds to the antibody and becomes visible under a fluorescent microscope. This test is highly reliable and is typically performed post-mortem due to the need for brain tissue. Another diagnostic tool is the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test, which detects the genetic material of the rabies virus. PCR can be performed on saliva, cerebrospinal fluid, or brain tissue and is useful for early detection, even before clinical symptoms appear. Serological tests, such as the rapid fluorescent focus inhibition test (RFFIT), measure the presence of rabies virus-neutralizing antibodies in the blood. While these tests can indicate exposure to the virus, they are not conclusive for diagnosing active rabies infection. Histopathological examination of brain tissue can also reveal characteristic changes, such as Negri bodies, which are indicative of rabies. However, this method is less sensitive than the DFA test. In some cases, viral isolation in cell culture or animal inoculation may be used, though these methods are time-consuming and less commonly employed. Due to the zoonotic nature of rabies, handling samples and conducting tests require strict biosafety measures to prevent exposure. Early and accurate diagnosis is critical for public health and to prevent the spread of the virus. Veterinarians and diagnostic laboratories follow standardized protocols to ensure reliable results.