A method for producing a multimetal oxide catalyst comprises preparation of a precursor composition, exposing said precursor composition to elevated temperatures to activate the composition, and grinding the activated composition. The preparation of the precursor composition comprises: a) forming a plasticized precursor composition from the constituents of the composition; b) discharging the plasticized precursor composition from an extruder having at least one die to form extrudates; c) allowing the extrudates to drop onto a transfer surface disposed beneath the at least one die whereby the extrudates break into pieces which come to rest on the transfer surface; d) transferring the pieces to at least one drying chamber; and e) moving the pieces, through the at least one drying chamber on an air permeable drying conveyor belt; wherein steps b) through d) are carried out under reduced pressure. The method allows the production of a multimetal oxide catalyst with uniform characteristics. Fine particles of the multimetal oxide precursor that may be generated during extrusion of the plasticized precursor composition and handling of the extrudates are removed.