Modular cage structure

Abstract

A modular cage design providing a variety of environments and stimuli for primates or other animals, including a front panel, a rear panel, and a side panel switch are hinged or interlocked together. Where hinges are used, side panels are held together by longitudinal rods, which are threaded on each end, and which pass through bores provided in the front and rear panels. The front and rear panels are fixed to the side panels by nuts threaded onto the rods. A sliding panel is provided, attached to handles which are accessible from outside the cage, for sliding forwardly, to move the primate towards the front of the cage. Doors are provided on one end panel, in either a swinging or sliding configuration, for access to the interior to the cage. The side panels are adjustable for forming multi-cage environments. In one embodiment, hooks are used, and the side panels are provided with angles, such that reversing a given side panel changes the overall shape of the cage. In multi-cage configurations, rectangular connecting passages are formed, which are closed off by rectangular end panels. The cage materials are preferably lightweight, multi-colored and primate-proof, and provided with a variety of differently shaped apertures, for varying the environment of the primate. The modularity of the design allows individual elements of the cage to be interchanged freely, further providing environmental variety. In some embodiments, the cage is mounted on a cone or bar, about which it may freely rotate, providing an exercise function. A brake is provided to prevent rotation when desired.