Serological examination means the detection of antibodies. Antibodies can be found in an animal after infection or as a result of proper vaccination. Depending on the agent and the question of concern various different serological tests are used. Tests such as the RPA (Rapid Plate Agglutination) and the AGP (Agar-gel Precipitation), allow professionals to detect the antibodies against specific types of pathogens. ELISAs (Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay) are offered commercially from different suppliers and are easy to automate. These tests are suitable especially for serial examinations. To further distinguish antibodies from various serotypes or subtypes of pathogens, such as infectious bronchitis or avian influenza, the laboratory provides tests like the HI (Haemagglutination Inhibition test) and VN (Virus Neutralization Test). Immunofluorescence technique shows a high specificity and is mainly used in research projects.

Molecular biology techniques such as the PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) are widely used for human and veterinary diagnostics. The Real Time PCR, for instance, allows to certify the presence of Influenza Virus or Sars Cov-2 in within only few hours. In fact, this is nowadays a vital part of disease control. Compared to the detection of antibodies, which could only lead to retrospective information, the PCR provides the most current information on the current health status. Furthermore, PCR techniques and their sequencing processes allow a fast characterization of different bacterial and viral pathogens.