What defines a minor species?
Over the years, the Center for Veterinary Medicane (CVM) and the animal health industry have followed the definition of minor species in the Code of Federal Regulations. This defines minor species by exclusion, meaning that the major species have been identified, and all others are considered minor species. Major species are cattle, swine, chickens, turkeys, horses, dogs and cats. Historically, a species was considered to be a major species if it had a large enough population to generate a significant market for animal health products. This new law adds the definitions of major and minor species as well as the definition of minor use to the statute. Under the new law, the Secretary of Health and Human Services has the authority to write a regulation to change a species classification from minor to major, but not from major to minor. What are the criteria for determining minor use? Frequency and geography define minor use. Minor use means that the intended use of a drug in a major speci
