Feline Calicivirus Test for Cats – FCV Antigen Detection Kit for Home Use
- Available in packs of 1, 2, 5, or 10 tests.
- Comprehensive instructions are provided.
- Long shelf life: Remains valid for 12 months or more from the date of purchase.
Each kit includes:
- Test cassette
- Sterile disposable dropper
- Buffer liquid
- Swab stick
- Instruction leaflet
This Feline Calicivirus (FCV) test requires samples of your cat's ocular, nasal, or anal secretions, saliva, or serum/plasma. It can be conducted at home and does not necessarily demand additional equipment. The test can be performed with or without a centrifuge.
Understanding Calicivirus:
Feline Calicivirus (FCV) belongs to the Caliciviridae family. It is a highly contagious virus responsible for causing upper respiratory infections (URIs) or "cat flu" in cats and kittens. Symptoms include a runny nose and eyes, sneezing, and sometimes the development of painful sores inside the mouth, as well as sudden lameness. Due to its high contagiousness, Feline Calicivirus is a significant concern in animal shelter environments. While there is no direct cure for the illness, many cats recover completely with supportive care, while others may become asymptomatic carriers of FCV.
How to Conduct the Calicivirus Test:
Our Feline Calicivirus tests are based on a lateral flow immunochromatographic assay designed to qualitatively detect Feline Calicivirus antigen (FCV) in secretions from your cat's ocular, nasal, or anal swab, as well as in serum or plasma samples. You will need to collect such samples with the provided swab stick. Alternatively, you can collect a blood sample from your cat and run the test with serum or plasma.
The test cassette features a testing window with both T (test) and C (control) zones. When the cat's sample is applied to the device's sample hole, the liquid laterally traverses the test strip, interacting with pre-coated monoclonal antibodies. If the specimen contains Feline Calicivirus antigen, a visible T line will appear. The presence of the C line post-sample application always confirms a valid result. This indicates that the device accurately determines the presence or absence of Feline Calicivirus antigen in the sample.
Results are typically available within a 5-10 minute timeframe.
