Small Animal Imaging Market Size, Share, By Type, Modality, Application, End-User, and Region - Trends, Analysis, and Forecast till 2035

• The small animal imaging market size is expected to be worth USD 3.4 billion by 2035.
• It is indicated that the market was valued at USD 1.8 billion in 2024.
• It is advancing with a CAGR of 7.3%.

Small animal imaging itself encompasses various imaging modalities, which includes optical imaging, nuclear imaging, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), and ultrasound imaging. The target market growth refers to the sector focused on the development and end user of imaging technologies specifically designed for small animals such as mice and rats primarily used in preclinical research.

For instance, in December 2024, in Mahalakshmi, Mumbai, Tata Trusts attempted to open the country's first cutting-edge small animal hospital. The first-of-its-kind hospital has five floors, more than 98,000 square feet, and more than 200 beds. The institution offers 24-hour services through pet-sensitive veterinarians, nurses, and technicians who are trained to give high-quality care with the goal of saving lives, all inspired by the philanthropist and former chairman of the Tata Group's idea for a super specialty hospital for dogs.

Key Takeaways:

• North America held the largest share of the market in 2024 as it is driven by a strong presence of research institutions, pharmaceutical companies, and significant investments in preclinical studies across the region.
• Europe is expected to be the fastest-growing market during the forecast period as the focus on innovative research and development in biomedical fields supports its significant market presence in the region.
• By type, optical imaging is expected to account for the largest share of the small animal imaging market in the upcoming years due to its advantages in real-time observations of biological processes particularly through bioluminescence and fluorescence imaging techniques.

Key Drivers of Target Market:

Growing Innovation in Technology is Anticipated to Accelerate Market Expansion.

The capabilities of imaging small animals are being improved by the ongoing advancements in imaging modalities, which include high-resolution MRI, PET, and CT. These developments give scientists better sensitivity and quantification, allowing them to gain in-depth understanding of biological processes.     

• For instance, in April 2024, CDL Nuclear Technologies, a pioneer in advanced diagnostic solutions, announced the launch of its latest innovation, the Mobile dedicated Cardiac PET/CT Trailer. This cutting-edge mobile solution is designed to revolutionize cardiac care by directly providing state-of-the-art cardiac PET/CT imaging services to medical facilities on their schedule.

Increased Funding for Research is expected to Accelerate Market Expansion

Growing investments in research and development from both public and private sectors are propelling the demand for small animal imaging technologies. Further, this funding supports preclinical studies essential for drug discovery and development. 

• For instance, in August 2023, Baylor University received a grant of nearly USD 1 million from the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas. This funding is designated for acquiring an IVIS Spectrum/Quantum GX2 optical/microCT small animal imaging system, aimed at enhancing cancer research capabilities across multiple disciplines, including biology, chemistry, psychology, neuroscience, and nutrition.

Restraints:

Lack of Skilled Professionals Hampers the Target Market Growth

The productive deployment of small animal imaging technology is hampered by a lack of skilled workers who can operate advanced imaging equipment.   

• Counterbalance Statement: Although, the adoption of advanced imaging technologies is hampered by a shortage of qualified specialists, this issue has been reduced by the quick development of automated procedures and user-friendly imaging systems, which allow less specialized staff to operate advanced equipment efficiently.

Opportunities & Market Trends:

Integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to Boost Market Growth in the Future

• The expansion of AI based analysis tools for small animal imaging significantly enhances diagnostic accuracy and efficiency. Additionally, AI can help automate image analysis, improving the speed and reliability of results which is crucial for preclinical research.
• For instance, in January 2024, veterinary radiology company, SignalPET has launched their new product, SignalSTAT, which seamlessly blends cutting-edge AI technology with human expertise to offer pets the fastest and most thorough care possible. With representation in over 2,300 clinics, SignalPET has created an advanced veterinary X-ray interpretation solution that can assess the most critical, urgent cases with both advanced AI technology and expert human oversight with a guaranteed 45-minute turnaround time, available 24/7. This new technology will be exhibited at the upcoming trade show, Veterinary Meeting & Expo (VMX) from January 13-17th.

The small animal imaging market is classified into type, modality, application, end-user, and region.

Type:

Small animal imaging systems market by type is categorized into optical imaging, nuclear imaging, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), ultrasound imaging, and others. The optical imaging system segment is expected to dominate over the forecast period as these systems offers high sensitivity, allowing researchers to detect low-abundance targets.

• For instance, in November 2024, LI-COR Biosciences introduced the LI-6800 in Vivo Imaging System, a high-resolution optical imaging device designed for small animal research. This system enhances the capability to monitor and analyze biological processes in real-time.

Modality:

By modality, the small animal imaging market is segmented into micro-MRI, micro-CT, micro-ultrasound, photoacoustic imaging systems, magnetic particle imaging (MPI) systems, and others. The micro-CT segment holds the dominant small animal imaging market share as this modality is preferred for its high-resolution imaging capabilities allowing researchers to obtain detailed three-dimensional images of small animal anatomy and pathology.

• For instance, in May 2020, Woorien unveiled a new Spiral CT Scanner, "MyVet CT i3D” that delivers superior soft tissue image contrast with 3D reconstruction of soft tissue structures. Different from conventional veterinary CT Scanners, such as CBCT or Micro CT, it can provide high quality images with whole diagnostic details of the internal organs, soft tissues, blood vessels, and bones.

Application:

By application, the market is segmented into oncology, neurology, cardiology, inflammation/infection, and other applications. The oncology application dominates the focused market share due to the increasing prevalence of cancer and the significant role of small animal imaging in cancer research, drug development, and monitoring treatment responses. The ability to visualize tumor growth and response to therapies in real-time makes oncology a primary focus for small animal imaging technologies.

End User:

On the basis of end-user, the market is segmented into (biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, academic/research institutes, diagnostic laboratories, and others). The biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies segment leads the focused market share as it is driven by the demand for small animal imaging technologies as these companies rely heavily on preclinical studies to evaluate the safety and efficacy of new drug candidates.

Region:

Geographically, the market is studied across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa.

North America: This region is expected to hold the largest market share as this region's well-established healthcare infrastructure and supportive regulatory environment facilitate rapid advancements in small animal imaging technologies. The need for these imaging technologies is primarily driven by the growing emphasis on personalized treatment and chronic illnesses.

• For instance, in January 2024, BIO-CAT, Inc., a probiotic company, partnered with global distributor Caldic North America to deliver its probiotic strains and OPTIFEED ingredient brand to North America's companion animal nutrition industry. For animal nutrition, BIO-CAT Microbials, the company's vertically integrated FDA-registered and SQF-certified human-grade fermentation facility in Shakopee, Minn., provides single-enzyme to multi-enzyme blends and microbials to support digestive health.
• Europe: This region is considered as the fastest-growing region in the focused market due to its robust research infrastructure and increasing collaboration between academic institutions and industry players. This collaboration enhances the development of innovative imaging solutions tailored for preclinical studies. 

Small Animal Imaging Market Report Scope:

Segmentation:

By Type:

• Optical Imaging
• Nuclear Imaging
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
• Computed Tomography (CT)
• Ultrasound Imaging
• Others

By Modality:

• Micro-MRI
• Micro-CT
• Micro-Ultrasound
• Photoacoustic Imaging Systems
• Magnetic Particle Imaging (MPI) Systems
• Others 

By Application:

• Oncology
• Neurology
• Cardiology
• Metabolic Disorders
• Other Applications 

By End User:

• Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Companies
• Academic/Research Institutes
• Diagnostic Laboratories
• Others   

By Region:

• North America
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe
  • Germany
  • U.K.
  • France
  • Russia
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Netherlands
  • Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • Australia
  • Indonesia
  • Malaysia
  • South Korea
  • Rest of Asia Pacific
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Argentina
  • Rest of Latin America
• Middle East & Africa
  • GCC
  • Israel
  • South Africa
  • Rest of Middle East & Africa

The key players operating in the small animal imaging market include KA Imaging, Agilent Technologies, Inc., Analytik Jena GmbH, and others. Major companies are recognized for their innovative products and contributions to the market, including advancements in imaging modalities. Both well-established businesses and creative start-ups are working to satisfy the growing need for advanced imaging solutions in preclinical research. These businesses are in a strong position to take advantage of the expanding prospects in the target market as they prioritise technical developments and strategic partnerships.

For instance, in December 2022, Thermo Fisher Scientific announced the launch of its new small animal imaging system, In Vivo Imaging Suite. The In Vivo Imaging Suite is a modular system that can be customized to meet the specific needs of researchers. It offers a variety of imaging modalities, including MRI, CT, and PET.

List of Key Players in the Market:

• KA Imaging
• Agilent Technologies, Inc.
• Analytik Jena GmbH
• Aspect Imaging Ltd.
• Bruker Corporation
• Fujifilm Holdings Corporation
• Genovis AB
• Hallmarq Veterinary Imaging
• Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc.
• LI-COR, Inc.
• Mediso Medical Imaging Systems
• MILabs B.V.
• Miltenyi Biotec
• MR Solutions
• PerkinElmer, Inc.
• Promega Corporation

• In April 2024, Antech, the veterinary diagnostics company focused on partnering with veterinary professionals to predict, diagnose, and monitor wellness and disease, announced the availability of two new breakthrough innovations to mark a new chapter for veterinary diagnostics. Available now are AIS RapidRead to enable faster interpretations of radiographs and the in-house Nu.Q Canine Cancer Test, two innovations that support clinical decision-making to improve patient outcomes.
• In March 2024, MSU researcher develops imaging-based method of identifying defects in poultry production. In food systems, consumers drive many of the changes producers make in their production practices. This change can be seen in both food and animal production, and poultry production is no exception. 
• In April 2023, PEPZYME PRO was launched by Small Animal Imaging & Probiotics. Pepzyme Pro, a new synbiotic and enzyme product, addresses the adverse effects of undigested protein on the gut and digestive health. Small Animal Imaging & Probiotics is delighted to launch patent-pending Pepzyme Pro, a dietary component containing powerful protease enzymes and a synbiotic (5 probiotic strains and a prebiotic), ideal for vegans and vegetarians.
• In March 2023, The Bioscan Fusion 3, a new preclinical imaging system from Bruker Corporation, was introduced. PET, SPECT, and CT imaging are all combined into one platform by the Bioscan Fusion 3, a multi-modality imaging system. This enables scientists to capture many kinds of photos from the same animal, which can aid in their comprehension of how diseases develop and how novel therapies affect an animal.

Analyst View:

Small animal imaging market is experiencing robust growth driven by advancements in imaging technologies and the rising focus on preclinical research. As pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies intensify efforts in drug discovery and development the demand for accurate, high-resolution and non-invasive imaging systems expected to dominate in future years.

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