RNATT Test for International Pet Relocation: Requirements, Timing & Authorized Labs

What Is the RNATT Test?

The RNATT test (Rabies Neutralising Antibody Titre Test), also known as the rabies antibody titre test, is a mandatory requirement for importing pets into many rabies-controlled or rabies-free countries.

The test measures the level of rabies-neutralising antibodies present in a pet’s blood after rabies vaccination. Its purpose is to confirm that the animal has developed sufficient immunity to meet international pet import regulations.

Results are expressed in International Units per millilitre (IU/ml).
The minimum acceptable level for most countries is:

≥ 0.5 IU/ml

Results below this threshold are considered non-compliant and require revaccination and retesting.

When Is the RNATT Test Required?

The RNATT test is required for entry into many countries, including:

• Japan

• Australia

• New Zealand

• European Union (from unlisted countries)

• United Kingdom (from certain origins)

• Several Asian and Middle Eastern countries

RNATT requirements vary by destination and country status, which is why destination-specific verification is essential before starting the process.

Rabies Vaccination Prerequisites

Before performing an RNATT test, strict rabies vaccination rules apply:

• The pet must be microchipped before rabies vaccination

• The rabies vaccine must be administered by a licensed veterinarian

• The vaccine must be valid at the time of blood sampling

• Booster vaccinations must comply with manufacturer and regulatory timelines

If a microchip is implanted after rabies vaccination, the vaccination is invalid for RNATT purposes and must be repeated.

RNATT Timing: When Can the Blood Sample Be Taken?

Timing is one of the most critical aspects of the RNATT test.

In most cases:

• Blood sampling may only occur at least 30 days after rabies vaccination

• Samples taken earlier are invalid

• The date of blood sampling becomes the reference point for waiting periods

Incorrect timing is one of the most common causes of delayed international pet relocation.

Veterinary Blood Sampling Requirements

The RNATT blood sample must:

• Be taken by a licensed veterinarian

• Follow correct clinical and hygiene procedures

• Be clearly labelled with:

  • Pet identification details

  • Microchip number

  • Sampling date

Any discrepancy can result in sample rejection by the laboratory.

Authorized RNATT Laboratories: A Critical Requirement

The RNATT test must be performed by an authorized laboratory approved by the destination country.

Key points:

• Not all laboratories are accepted

• Each country publishes an official list of approved labs

• Results from non-authorized laboratories are not valid, even if antibody levels meet requirements

This is a frequent and costly mistake in international pet relocation.

Sample Transport: Courier Requirements

Once collected, the blood sample must:

• Be packaged according to laboratory guidelines

• Be shipped by courier

• Include all required documentation

Delays or improper handling during transport can compromise sample integrity and invalidate results.

Understanding RNATT Test Results

Laboratory reports confirm:

• Antibody level (IU/ml)

• Date of analysis

• Compliance with testing standards

Interpretation:

• ≥ 0.5 IU/ml → compliant

• < 0.5 IU/ml → revaccination and retesting required

Even with a compliant result, travel may not be immediately permitted.

Mandatory Waiting Periods After RNATT Testing

Many countries impose a mandatory waiting period after RNATT blood sampling.

Examples:

• Japan: up to 180 days

• European Union (from unlisted countries): 3 months

Important:

• Waiting periods start from the blood sampling date

• They cannot be shortened or waived

• They are strictly enforced

This is why RNATT planning often determines the earliest possible travel date.

Common RNATT Mistakes in International Pet Relocation

Frequent errors include:

• Sampling too early

• Using non-authorized laboratories

• Incorrect microchip–vaccination sequence

• Missing documentation

• Underestimating waiting periods

Any of these can delay relocation by months.

Why RNATT Planning Is Essential

The RNATT test directly impacts legal eligibility to travel.
It is often the critical path in international pet relocation planning.

Without early planning:

• Flights may need to be postponed

• Relocation schedules may be disrupted

• Additional costs can arise

RNATT testing must be integrated into the overall relocation timeline.

Final Thoughts

The RNATT test is a highly regulated process involving:

• Veterinary compliance

• Authorized laboratories

• International courier logistics

• Government-mandated waiting periods

Understanding and planning this step correctly is essential when moving abroad with pets.

The RNATT test is one of the clearest examples of why international pet relocation is about planning — not just transport.