Which test is used to check for equine infectious anemia (EIA) antibodies?

The Coggins test is specifically designed to detect antibodies to the equine infectious anemia virus (EIA) in the blood of horses. This test is crucial for determining whether a horse is infected with the virus, which can lead to serious health issues and is often fatal. The virus is carried by various blood-feeding insects and can spread between horses, making it essential for horse owners, especially in management and sale situations, to know a horse's EIA status.

Unlike the Coggins test, a pre-purchase examination typically focuses on assessing the overall health and soundness of a horse without specifically testing for EIA. Fecal tests are primarily used to check for internal parasites and assess gut health, while blood smears might provide information on certain blood conditions or infections, but they do not specifically test for EIA. Thus, the Coggins test is the correct choice as it directly pertains to the presence of EIA antibodies.