WESTBROOK – Idexx Laboratories Inc., a maker of diagnostic tests for animals, said Monday it agreed to acquire Osmetech PLC’s critical care division for $44.9 million.

The critical care division makes a line of point-of-care electrolyte and blood gas analyzers.

Idexx believes the acquisition will help it secure its long-term supply of VetStat analyzers and consumables.

Osmetech’s critical care division booked $8.6 million in sales for the six months that ended June 30, 2006.

London-based Osmetech specializes in technology that detects micro-organisms and certain types of infections. The transaction is expected to be neutral to 2008 earnings.

“We expect the margins from this business to expand over the next several years as the installed base of instruments in both the veterinary and human markets continues to grow,” said Jonathan Ayers, chairman and chief executive officer, in a prepared statement.

The transaction is expected to close on or around Jan. 31, 2007.