Classification of products for use in animals
Learn about the factors that influence the classification of a product for use in animals and how to determine which regulations apply.
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How products are classified
The classification of a product for use in animals may depend on a number of factors, such as:
- formulation
- indications
- dosage form
- route of administration
- mode of action
Based on shared characteristics, products for use in animals may also fall into one of a number of regulatory categories, such as:
- veterinary drugs
- for example, Division 8/new drugs, Division 1 drugs, veterinary health products (VHPs)
- veterinary medical devices
- for example, surgical instruments, syringes
- veterinary biologics
- for example, vaccines, diagnostic kits for infectious diseases, antibody products for administration to animals
- livestock feeds
- for example, complete feeds, single ingredient feeds, specialty feeds
- pest control products
- for example, animal and insect repellents
- disinfectants
- for example, hard-surface disinfectants
- consumer products
- for example, shampoo with no health claim
Refer to product types and contact information for more information about each type of product for use in animals.
You can also refer to the Guidance document on classification of veterinary drugs and livestock feeds to help determine the classification of products at the drug/feed interface.
How to confirm a classification
Follow these steps to confirm your product's classification:
- Fill out one product classification request form for each product.
- Send the completed form and supporting documentation to the single window at classification-vet@hc-sc.gc.ca
The Veterinary Drugs Directorate (VDD) acts as a single-window for product classifications. We will assess the information provided and may request more information to help us make a decision. We will consult other government departments and agencies responsible for other products types as appropriate.
The time to respond will vary based on:
- the complexity of the classification
- how new or novel the product or ingredient(s) are
- the need to consult with other regulatory areas
Once the classification of the product has been confirmed, you will be informed of the decision. We will advise, as applicable, on the process to file a submission for your product or redirect you to the appropriate regulatory department or agency.
Product types and contact information
| Product type | Governing legislation | Responsible organization & contact information |
|---|---|---|
Veterinary Drugs & Veterinary Medical Devices* |
Under the authority of the Food and Drugs Act *Note: While Health Canada has the authority over medical devices, including those for use in animals under the Food and Drugs Act, there are no specific requirements in the accompanying Food and Drug Regulations for veterinary medical devices. Contact VDD for advice on classification of products for use in animals at the drug/device interface |
Veterinary Drugs Directorate (VDD) of Health Canada |
Under the authority of the Food and Drugs Act |
Veterinary Drugs Directorate (VDD) of Health Canada |
|
Under the authority of the Pest Control Products Act |
Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) of Health Canada pmra.subject.to.regulation-sujet.a.la.reglementation.arla@hc-sc.gc.ca |
|
Under the authority of the Food and Drugs Act |
Natural and Non-Prescription Health Products Directorate (NNHPD) of Health Canada |
|
Under the authority of the Canada Consumer Product Safety Act |
Healthy Environments and Consumer Safety Branch (HECSB) of Health Canada |
|
Under the authority of the Health of Animals Act |
Canadian Centre for Veterinary Biologics (CCVB) of Canadian Food Inspection Agency c/o Pre-market Application Submissions Office (PASO) cfia.paso-bpdpm.acia@inspection.gc.ca |
|
Under the authority of the Feeds Act |
Animal Feed and Veterinary Biologics Division (AFVBD) |
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