Adapted by Rosie Busch, DVM, Veterinarian Specialist, CDFA Antimicrobial Use & Stewardship

The new California law states that as of January 1, 2018, over the counter injectable and all other medically important antibiotics must be administered with a prescription or veterinary feed directive (VFD) ordered by a California licensed veterinarian through a valid veterinarian-client-patient relationship.

Current Availability

Currently there are 12 different classes of medically important antibiotics available for use in livestock. Only half of these have labeled indications for use in lactating dairy cows. While recently the FDA approved a new class of antibiotic for use in human medicine, it is safe to say that new classes of antibiotics may not be available for use in livestock any time soon. All antibiotic use can lead to the development of antibiotic resistance, making it important to recognize and eliminate unnecessary or inappropriate uses of antibiotics. Take charge by implementing an antibiotic stewardship plan with your veterinarian in order to preserve the efficacy of these medications that are essential to animal health.

Limitations on Preventative Use

According to the Livestock: Use of Antimicrobial Drugs law (FAC § 14400 – 14408), as of January 1, 2018, a medically important antimicrobial drug (MIAD) can be used to prevent disease in livestock if, under the professional and clinical judgment of a veterinarian, there is an increased risk of developing an infection, as long as the MIAD is not given in a “regular pattern.” A few examples of “regular pattern” use may include giving MIADs solely based on the animals’ age or weight, the calendar date, or a life stage event of the animal without further justification for treatment by a licensed veterinarian within a valid veterinarian-client-patient relationship. Support for the decision of treatment may include, but is not limited to, the clinical experience of the veterinarian, historical herd health data and supportive diagnostic testing.

Access to Veterinary Care

Your industry representatives worked very hard to make sure that increased regulations on antibiotic use would not have a negative impact on animal health. As of January 1, 2018 veterinary oversight will be required with the use of medically important antibiotics. Veterinarians are dedicated to safeguarding animal health and welfare needs, and making sure that necessary medications are available and administered in a timely manner for treating, controlling, or preventing disease in livestock. Cattle will still receive antibiotics when there is a clear indication. Establish a relationship and work with your veterinarian to ensure that the animals under your care receive the medical attention they need, when they need it.

For additional information, please visit: https://www.cdfa.ca.gov/ahfss/AUS

Please email questions to: CDFA_AUS@cdfa.ca.gov

 Link to PDF Version: Use of Antibiotics for California Livestock