Small Animal Imaging Market

Rising awareness of small animal research boosts market growth.

The increasing awareness of small animal research is playing a pivotal role in fuelling the growth of the small animal imaging market on multiple fronts. Firstly, as more stakeholders become cognizant of the indispensable role that small animal models play in preclinical research, there is a heightened demand for advanced imaging technologies that can facilitate more precise and comprehensive studies in these models. For instance, UNC School of Medicine (US) advocate for diverse collaborations among different entities to explore emerging imaging techniques, innovative contrast agents, and novel applications across various research domains, especially for preclinical research studies.

Furthermore, researchers recognize the value of small animal imaging in elucidating disease mechanisms, evaluating therapeutic interventions, and predicting clinical outcomes, thereby driving the adoption of innovative imaging modalities. Additionally, heightened awareness among funding agencies, policymakers, and regulatory bodies regarding the importance of supporting small animal research is resulting in increased investment and favorable regulatory environments, further propelling market growth.

The Global Small Animal Imaging Market Industry is projected to experience significant growth over the coming years. With a market value of 1.27 USD Billion in 2024, it is anticipated to reach 2.64 USD Billion by 2035, reflecting a robust CAGR of 6.88% from 2025 to 2035. This growth trajectory indicates a strong demand for advanced imaging technologies and methodologies in preclinical research. The increasing recognition of the importance of small animal models in understanding human diseases and testing new therapies is likely to drive this upward trend.

The Global Small Animal Imaging Market Industry is supported by regulatory frameworks that promote the use of animal models in research. Regulatory bodies are increasingly recognizing the value of small animal imaging in the development of new therapies and drugs. This support is likely to enhance the credibility of research findings, encouraging more institutions to invest in imaging technologies. As regulations evolve to facilitate ethical research practices, the market is expected to benefit from increased adoption of small animal imaging techniques, further solidifying its role in biomedical research.

The Global Small Animal Imaging Market Industry is significantly influenced by the increasing demand for preclinical research in drug development and disease modeling. Researchers are increasingly utilizing small animal models to study human diseases, which necessitates advanced imaging techniques for accurate data collection. This trend is expected to contribute to the market's expansion, with projections indicating a growth to 2.64 USD Billion by 2035. The ability to visualize the effects of new therapies in real-time enhances the research process, making small animal imaging an essential component of modern biomedical research.

The Global Small Animal Imaging Market Industry benefits from the growing investments in biomedical research. Governments and private entities are allocating substantial funds to support research initiatives that utilize small animal models for studying complex diseases. This influx of funding is likely to drive the adoption of advanced imaging technologies, as researchers seek to enhance their capabilities. With a projected CAGR of 6.88% from 2025 to 2035, the market is poised for sustained growth, reflecting the increasing recognition of the importance of small animal imaging in advancing medical science.

The Global Small Animal Imaging Market Industry is experiencing rapid growth due to continuous technological advancements in imaging modalities. Innovations such as high-resolution MRI, PET, and CT imaging are enhancing the precision and accuracy of small animal studies. These advancements facilitate better visualization of biological processes, which is crucial for preclinical research. In 2024, the market is projected to reach 1.27 USD Billion, driven by the demand for sophisticated imaging techniques that improve research outcomes. As these technologies evolve, they are likely to attract more investments, further propelling market growth.

The Global Small Animal Imaging Market Industry is also propelled by the rising incidence of chronic diseases and the aging population. As the prevalence of conditions such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and neurological disorders increases, there is a heightened need for effective research methodologies. Small animal imaging plays a crucial role in understanding disease mechanisms and testing new treatments. This growing focus on chronic disease research is expected to contribute to the market's growth, aligning with the broader trends in healthcare and research priorities.

By Region, the study segments the market into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Rest of the World. The North America small animal imaging market accounted for the largest market share in 2022. This is due to the growing research and development activities in the field of pharmaceuticals and biotechnology and rising prevalence of chronic diseases in pets in the North American region. Companies such as Bruker (US), Analytik Jena GmbH+Co. KG (Germany), Aspect Imaging Ltd (US), and MR Solutions (UK) are actively working on improving small animal imaging and fulfilling the demands of customers.

Further, the major countries studied are the U.S., Canada, Germany, France, the UK, Italy, Spain, China, Japan, India, Australia, South Korea, and Brazil.

Figure 3: SMALL ANIMAL IMAGING MARKET SIZE, BY REGION 2022 & 2032 (USD Billion)

Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, Market Research Future database, and analyst review

Europe small animal imaging market accounts for the second-largest market share due to growing demand for preclinical imaging in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industry, increasing government funding for research and development in the field of molecular imaging and Strong presence of leading imaging equipment manufacturers in the region the region. further, Germany small animal imaging market was attributed to hold the largest market share, and the France small animal imaging market is expected to fastest-growing market in the European region.

The Asia-Pacific small animal imaging market is expected to grow at a significant share from 2023 to 2032. This is due to the growing demand for preclinical research in drug discovery and development, increasing healthcare expenditure, and technological advancements in imaging modalities such as MRI, CT, PET, and SPECT in the region. Moreover, China small animal imaging market is expected to hold the largest market share, and Japan small animal imaging market is expected fastest-growing market in the Asia-Pacific region.

The Rest of the World is segmented into the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America. The small animal imaging market in the above-mentioned regions is likely to witness growth due to Increasing investment in research and development in the healthcare sector, and the rising healthcare expenditure in the Middle East region Moreover, political instability and security concerns impacting healthcare infrastructure development is affecting the market's growth to some extent in these regions.

The Small Animal Imaging Market is characterized by the presence of many global, regional, and local vendors. Developments in the healthcare industry and growing research and development make the small animal imaging market lucrative. To expand their reach and optimize their operational costs, the major players focus on obtaining regulatory authorizations from government agencies for their products and emphasize acquisitions and product launches to gain a substantial market share. The market comprises tier-1, tier-2, and local players. 

The tier-1 and tier-2 players have reach across the globe with diverse product portfolios. Companies such Bruker (US), Analytik Jena GmbH+Co. KG (Germany), Aspect Imaging Ltd (US), and MR Solutions (UK) dominate the Small Animal Imaging Market due to product differentiation, financial stability, strategic developments, and diversified regional presence. The players are focused on investing in research and development. Furthermore, they adopt strategic growth initiatives, such as expansion, product launches, joint ventures, and partnerships, to strengthen their market position and capture a large customer base.

One of the primary business strategies adopted by manufacturers in the global small animal imaging industry to benefit clients and expand the small animal imaging market sector is to manufacture locally to reduce operating costs.

MR Solutions manufactures and distributes the first line of commercial superconducting, cryogen-free (dry magnet) preclinical magnetic resonance imaging systems in the world. Modules for SPECT, PET, and CT are sold by the company. Furthermore, MR Solutions provides consulting services on the design and development of innovations in the field of MRI scanning to MRI scanner manufacturers, academic institutions, and specialized laboratories worldwide. 

With a team of seasoned professionals and an in-depth understanding of magnetic resonance imaging, MR Solutions can consistently develop and enhance its offerings. The company's overseas operations are situated in the United States and Australia. Furthermore, the company is growing its clientele internationally and boasts installations in over 40 countries.

Also, Bruker (US) develops, manufactures, and distributes scientific instruments, and analytical and diagnostic solutions worldwide. The company operates through two segments, Bruker Scientific Instruments, and Bruker Energy & Supercon Technologies. It offers life science tools based on magnetic resonance technology; life science mass spectrometry and ion mobility spectrometry systems; infrared spectroscopy and radiological/nuclear detectors for chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and explosive detection in emergency response, homeland security, and defense applications; and analytical and process analysis instruments and solutions. 

The company also provides X-ray instruments, atomic force microscopy instrumentation, fluorescence optical microscopy instruments, analytical tools for electron microscopes and X-ray metrology, and defect-detection equipment for semiconductor process control, as well as handheld, portable, and mobile X-ray fluorescence spectrometry instruments, and spark optical emission spectroscopy systems. Furthermore, the company has operations in the Americas, Asia-Pacific, and the Middle East.