Mix & Match

How accurate are at-home rapid tests?

The rapid tests sold by MancsLab have clinical-grade sensitivity and specificity (typically 96–99%). They use the same immunochromatographic technology as the tests used in veterinary practices.

Compared with PCR, the parvovirus test shows 98.00% sensitivity and 98.67% specificity (300 samples, manufacturer validation).

Every product page lists the manufacturer's own validation data for that test and the instructions for use as a PDF.

No test is 100% accurate – a positive result should always be confirmed by a vet.

Can it replace a visit to the vet?

No.


A rapid test is a valuable pre-screening tool that gives you a quick indication, but it does not replace a full veterinary examination.

ALWAYS contact your vet if the result is positive.

The advantage of the test is that it gives you information straight away instead of waiting – information you can take to your vet.

How should the tests be stored?

At 4–30 °C, in a dry place, protected from direct sunlight. Do not put the tests in the fridge and do not freeze them. The unopened foil pouch protects the test from moisture.

Carry out the test itself at room temperature (15–30 °C).

How long does an unopened test keep?

The manufacturer's shelf life is typically 18–24 months from production. The expiry date
is printed on every test cassette and on the outside of the box.

Do not use an expired test – the result may be unreliable.

Can I use the same test for cats and dogs?

The stand-alone Giardia test can be used for both cats and dogs (Giardia is not species-specific), as can the heartworm and Lyme tests.

The other tests are species-specific: CPV, the CPV/CDV combo, the CPV/CCV/Giardia 3-in-1 and the CPV/CCV/Giardia/CDV 4-in-1 are for dogs only; the FIV/FeLV, FPV and FIPV tests are for cats only.

Every product page clearly states which species the test is for.

What should I do if the result is positive?

Contact your vet as soon as possible – if parvovirus or panleukopenia is suspected, immediately!

Take the test cassette with you (or a photo of the result).

Your vet can carry out a confirmatory test and start treatment. Don't panic – early detection gives the best chance of recovery.

Can a result be falsely negative?

Yes, it can happen.

Pathogens can be shed intermittently (especially Giardia).

If the test is negative but the symptoms persist, repeat the test within 2–3 days or contact your vet.

Testing on three consecutive days increases reliability.

When is the best time to test?

Stool tests (CPV, Giardia, FPV, FIPV Ag and the 2-in-1, 3-in-1 and 4-in-1 combos): a fresh, ideally morning stool sample gives the most reliable result.

Blood tests (FIV/FeLV, FIPV Ab, heartworm): can be done at any time.

Lyme test: the sample is a tick removed from your pet.

Note that FIPV Ag works from stool, whereas FIPV Ab works from blood – the two tests answer different questions.

Important: in the first days of illness the amount of virus shed can still be low, so an early negative parvovirus result does not rule out infection – if the symptoms persist, repeat the test. With severe symptoms, see your vet straight away without waiting.

Is taking the sample painful for the animal?

Stool tests: not at all – you only take a sample from stool that has already been passed.

Blood tests: a brief prick, roughly like a mosquito bite. Blood sampling is best left to your vet, who can do it routinely in a few seconds.

How are the tests shipped?

By Packeta, delivered within Austria in 2–5 working days.

The tests can be shipped at room temperature and need no refrigeration. Shipping costs €6.90 and is free on orders from €69 – applied automatically, no discount code needed.