When is it appropriate to remove the endotracheal tube from an animal recovering from anesthesia?

The appropriate time to remove the endotracheal tube from an animal recovering from anesthesia is when they exhibit the ability to swallow. This action indicates that the animal has regained sufficient muscle tone and control over its airway, which reduces the risk of aspiration — a serious complication that can occur if the tube is withdrawn too early.

Swallowing is a crucial reflex that demonstrates the animal's return to a more awake state where it can also protect its airway by preventing foreign materials from entering the trachea. An animal that can swallow is typically regaining the necessary motor function and coordination to maintain effective respiratory and digestive processes.

While reflexive movement, alertness, and heart rate stabilization are important indicators of recovery, they do not necessarily confirm that the airway reflexes needed to safely remove the tube are functioning properly. Therefore, the swallowing reflex is a more definitive sign that an animal is ready for extubation.