What feature distinguishes inhalation cages or environmental chambers?

Inhalation cages or environmental chambers are specifically designed to facilitate the exposure of laboratory animals to test materials in vapor or gas form. This capability is critical for experiments that evaluate the effects of inhaled substances on health, safety, and toxicity. The controlled environment of these chambers allows for precise delivery and monitoring of the target inhalants, ensuring that the conditions remain consistent throughout the study.

While surgical procedures, breeding, and sample collection are essential aspects of laboratory animal work, they are not the primary function of inhalation cages. Their distinct purpose lies in the ability to administer airborne substances to the animals safely and effectively, which is fundamental for research involving respiratory exposure.