IDEXX Laboratories Launches LaserCyte™ System

WESTBROOK, Maine, October 30, 2002—IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. (NASDAQ: IDXX), today announced that it has commenced shipping and accepting customers for its LaserCyte™ Hematology Analyzer, a new, in-clinic veterinary diagnostic instrument. The LaserCyte system, a veterinary in-clinic instrument that uses proprietary laser-flow cytometry, is the only system that provides comprehensive hematological diagnostic information at the point of care.

"We believe that the LaserCyte represents the next generation in veterinary hematology testing," said IDEXX Chief Executive Officer Jonathan Ayers. "The system enhances the ability of veterinarians to diagnose health issues in real-time during the pet visit by providing hematology information previously unavailable in-clinic. We are very excited about the prospects for this product and are pleased to report that the launch has occurred on the schedule most recently communicated to investors."

IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. is a worldwide leader in the development and commercialization of innovative, technology-based products and services for animal health. The Company's largest business is focused on companion animal health, combining biotechnology, medical device technology and information technology to aid veterinarians in providing better medicine while building successful practices. IDEXX Laboratories is also focused on employing innovative technologies to monitor production animal health and the safety and quality of drinking water and milk. Headquartered in Westbrook, Maine, IDEXX Laboratories employs more than 2,100 people and offers products to customers in more than 50 countries.

This press release contains forward-looking statements as defined in the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based on management's current expectations of future events, which are subject to risks and uncertainties. If underlying assumptions prove inaccurate, actual results could vary materially from management's expectations. Risks and uncertainties include timing and success of new product introductions, competition and technological change, government regulation and obtaining government approvals, product demand and market acceptance, availability of products and raw materials, and litigation. A further description of these risks and uncertainties and other factors can be found in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2001, and Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2002, in the section captioned "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations." You may view these factors in detail in the most recent Form 10Q. The information is located in the "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition" under the Future Operations Results section. The Company assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements as a result of new information or future events or developments.