Published on May 20, 2025
Last updated:
Planning to Relocate Your Furry Friend Abroad?
Planning to relocate your furry friend abroad? If your destination country requires proof of rabies immunity, you’ll likely need a Rabies Titer Test which is a crucial step in international pet travel for both cats and dogs. Here’s what you need to know before you start the journey.
What is a Rabies Titer Test?
A Rabies Titer Test (also known as a rabies antibody test or FAVN test) measures the level of rabies antibodies in your pet’s bloodstream. It verifies that your cat or dog has developed sufficient immunity following rabies vaccination. The test result must show a rabies antibody titer of 0.5 IU/ml or higher.
This blood test is required by many countries, especially rabies-free nations like Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and the UK, as part of their pet import regulations. Without it, your pet may be denied entry or subjected to quarantine upon arrival.
Note: Some countries require quarantine regardless of the test result.
If you decide to work with WorldCare Pet, our pet relocation counselors can assist you with the entire process.
Why Is It Important for Pet Travel?
A rabies titer test is essential for ensuring the safety of animals and people in countries with strict rabies control protocols. For pet parents, this test:
- Confirms your pet’s protection against rabies
- Serves as a key document for international pet travel
- Helps meet entry requirements for many rabies-free or rabies-controlled countries
- Prevents long or unnecessary quarantine periods
Skipping this step or getting it done incorrectly can lead to travel delays or denied entry.
How Long Is the Rabies Titer Test Valid?
In most cases, the rabies titer test is valid for 12 to 24 months, depending on the destination country and your pet’s vaccination schedule. Here’s a general guideline:
| Destination | Validity Period |
|---|---|
| European Union (EU) | Valid as long as rabies vaccinations have never lapsed |
| Australia | 1 year (12 months) |
| New Zealand | 2 years (24 months) |
| Japan | 2 years (24 months) |
Please note: This is subject to change based on government regulations. Be sure to check the specific rules for your destination country as some require the test to be conducted at least 3 months prior to entry.
Who Performs the Rabies Titer Test?
The Rabies Titer Test must be administered by a government-accredited veterinarian, and the blood sample must be sent to an approved laboratory. Not all labs are recognized by every country, so it’s important to verify this in advance.
Here are the links for Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and the UK. If you need help locating approved laboratories for your destination country, our pet relocation counselors can assist.
What to Expect:
-
- Your vet will draw a blood sample at least 30 days after the rabies vaccination.
- The sample is shipped to an approved lab.
- Results typically take 4 to 6+ weeks, so plan well ahead of your travel date.
- Your vet will draw a blood sample at least 30 days after the rabies vaccination.
Titer test timelines vary by country, and getting started late is one of the most common reasons pet parents miss their travel window. If you’re not sure which test your destination requires, a WorldCare pet relocation counselor can walk you through it before you book a vet appointment. Request a free quote today.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does a rabies titer test take?
The blood draw itself is quick, but lab results typically take 4 to 6 weeks or more, depending on the lab. Because of this, it’s best to schedule the test as early as possible in your relocation timeline.
Which countries require a rabies titer test?
Many rabies-free or rabies-controlled countries require it, including Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and the UK. Requirements vary by destination, so it’s worth confirming the specific rules for where your pet is traveling.
How much does a rabies titer test cost?
Cost varies depending on your vet and the approved lab used. A WorldCare pet relocation counselor can help you understand what to expect for your specific destination.
How long is a rabies titer test valid?
Validity depends on the destination country. For example, it’s typically valid for one year in Australia, and two years in Japan. In the EU, it remains valid as long as rabies vaccinations have never lapsed.
Can any vet perform a rabies titer test?
No. The test must be administered by a government-accredited veterinarian, and the blood sample must be sent to a lab approved for your destination country.
What happens if my pet doesn’t pass the rabies titer test?
If the antibody level doesn’t meet the required threshold, your pet may need to be revaccinated and retested. Some countries also require quarantine regardless of the test result, so it’s worth confirming those rules ahead of time.
Need Assistance? WorldCare Pet Can Help
Results from an approved lab typically take 4 to 6 weeks or more, so the earlier this gets scheduled, the more travel dates stay open. WorldCare Pet coordinates the whole process, from finding the right vet to confirming the right lab, so nothing gets missed along the way.
Speak with a member of our team today.
Moving your pet across the world just got less stressful. Valerie Neyra, Marketing Coordinator at WorldCare Pet and devoted cat mom to Lucky, creates the guides, tools, and resources pet parents need to navigate domestic and international pet transport with confidence. Her mission? Making sure no pet owner feels alone during a global move.