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:

Based on shared characteristics, products for use in animals may also fall into one of a number of regulatory categories, such as:

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:

  1. Fill out one product classification request form for each product.
  2. 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:

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

classification-vet@hc-sc.gc.ca

Veterinary Health Products

Under the authority of the Food and Drugs Act

Veterinary Drugs Directorate (VDD) of Health Canada

vhp-psa@hc-sc.gc.ca

Pest Control Products

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

Disinfectants

Under the authority of the Food and Drugs Act

Natural and Non-Prescription Health Products Directorate (NNHPD) of Health Canada

nnhpd-dpsnso@hc-sc.gc.ca

Consumer Products

Under the authority of the Canada Consumer Product Safety Act

Healthy Environments and Consumer Safety Branch (HECSB) of Health Canada

cpsclassification-spc@hc-sc.gc.ca

Veterinary Biologics

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

Livestock Feeds

Under the authority of the Feeds Act

Animal Feed and Veterinary Biologics Division (AFVBD)
of Canadian Food Inspection Agency

cfia.afp-paa.acia@inspection.gc.ca

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