FDA approves Pfizer antibiotic for cats, dogs

The FDA has approved a single-dose antibiotic from Pfizer Inc. for cats and dogs, shortening treatment from two weeks to one day.

Convenia, an antibiotic injection administered at a veterinarian's office, treats common skin infections in companion animals.

The drug was developed in Kalamazoo, Mich., and will be produced in a new $35-million facility in Portage, Mich.

Clinical trials showed that Convenia was as effective as a 14-day course of its oral equivalent. The cost and dosage of the injection varies depending on the weight of the pet and the extent of the infection.

Although approved only last month for use in the United States, more than 4 million doses of Convenia have been administered in Europe. Pharmaceuticals geared toward pets have been profitable for Pfizer. Last year, the company's total revenue for animal health was $2.6 billion, a 13 percent increase from 2006.