Today, in-clinic titer test kits for canine distemper (CDV), canine parvovirus (CPV), canine adenovirus (CAV), and feline parvovirus (panleukopenia, FPV) correlate well with appropriate gold standard tests. Therefore, when these in clinic tests are performed properly: A positive test result indicates the patient does have protective levels of antibody against the virus. A negative test result indicates the patient does not have protective levels of circulating antibody. However, a negative test result does not necessarily define susceptibility.
When it comes to rabies titers, things get a little more complicated. The sample must be sent to an outside laboratory where the Rapid Fluorescent Foci Inhibition Test is performed. Test results are normally available in 3 to 4 weeks from the date that the sample is received at the laboratory. This test cannot differentiate vaccination from infection.
Additional paperwork must be filled out by your veterinarian in order to use a titer test instead of an actual vaccination for rabies certification.