Monitoring SpO2 in small animals during surgery is crucial for ensuring the animal’s safety and maintaining optimal physiological conditions. During anesthesia and surgical procedures, small animals like mice are particularly vulnerable to rapid changes in oxygen levels due to their high metabolic rates and smaller body mass. A drop in oxygen saturation can lead to hypoxia, causing organ damage or even death if not detected early.

Continuous SpO2 monitoring allows researchers and veterinarians to track the animal’s respiratory function in real-time. This ensures that anesthesia levels are properly adjusted and that ventilation is adequate. This proactive approach reduces the risk of complications, improves surgical outcomes, and enhances the overall welfare of the animal. Moreover, maintaining consistent oxygenation levels is vital for the reliability of experimental data, as hypoxia can introduce variables that may skew results, particularly in studies related to cardiovascular or respiratory function.