Virbac Unveils Europe’s First Medicated Cat Food: A Game Changer for Feline Health

Virbac has launched Vikaly, the first medicated feed for cats that combines renal kibble with a veterinary medication. This innovative product is now available in Europe and requires a veterinary prescription following a clinical exam. It’s made in a factory specifically approved for medicated feed, complying with European Regulation 2019/4.

Bertrand Havrileck, Virbac’s R&D director, shared that the idea behind Vikaly started over 15 years ago. The goal was to blend essential medication with food to enhance the quality of life for cats with chronic conditions while easing the burden on their owners. This vision has now become a reality.

Vikaly also marks a new category in European veterinary regulations. The entire development and production process occurs in France, specifically at the Carros and Vauvert sites. The manufacturing method uses spraying technology, ensuring each kibble is uniformly coated with the active ingredient.

With Vikaly, Virbac aims to improve veterinary care practices and promote the well-being of companion animals. Nathalie Pollet, Virbac’s global marketing director, emphasized the importance of evolving care protocols in veterinary medicine.

Interestingly, the pet health market is growing rapidly, expected to reach around $24 billion by 2027. This growth highlights the increasing prioritization of pet welfare. Moreover, social media trends show that more pet owners are seeking out integrated health solutions, with hashtags like #PetHealth and #VeterinaryCare gaining traction.

Virbac, founded in 1968, is a global leader in animal health. It employs over 6,400 people and operates in more than 100 countries. In 2024, the company reported a turnover of 1.397 billion euros, ranking it sixth globally in the animal health industry.

For more details on the company’s offerings, feel free to check out Virbac’s official site.

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