Pfizer Animal Health acquires Catapult Genetics & Bovigen

Pfizer Animal Health has announced its acquisition of two companies which specialise in livestock genetics.

Pfizer will acquire Catapult Genetics and Bovigen in a deal which is anticipated to be concluded by the end of this month. The terms of the agreement are undisclosed.

The deal may allow geneticists to foresee diseases in particular animals which will result in the production of more effective treatments for sick livestock.

Juan Ramon Alaix, president, Pfizer Animal Health, commented: “This is a strategic initiative that places Pfizer at the forefront of livestock gene marker [research and development] and enhances Pfizer’s ability to offer more complete solutions to global livestock producers.”

Pfizer also will be able to ameliorate the progress and of identifying new genetic markers in cattle which will give a boost to beef producers in the US, the firm added.

The animal health business Pfizer recently revealed that it acquired Encysive Pharmaceuticals in February. The latter produces a widely used product for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension.