FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM): “Protecting Human and Animal Health.” To achieve this broad mission, CVM:
Makes sure an animal drug is safe and effective before approving it. The center approves animal drugs for companion (pet) animals, such as dogs, cats, and horses; and for food-producing animals, such as cattle, pigs, chickens, and even honey bees. If the drug is for a food-producing animal, before approving it, the center also makes sure that food products made from treated animals—meat, milk, eggs, and honey—are safe for people to eat; Monitors the safety and effectiveness of animal drugs on the market; Makes sure animal food—which includes animal feed, pet food, and pet treats—is safe, made under sanitary conditions, and properly labeled; Makes sure a food additive used in animal food is safe and effective before approving it; Conducts research that helps the center ensure the safety of animal drugs, animal food, and food products made from animals; and Helps make more animal drugs legally available for minor species, such as fish, hamsters, and parrots; and for minor (infrequent and limited) uses in a major species, such as cattle, turkeys, and dogs. Meet Dr. Steven Solomon, Director, Center for Veterinary Medicine
What CVM Regulates Animal Drugs Animal Food & Feeds (which includes pet food) Animal Medical Devices Frequently Asked Questions about Animal Drugs