Animal feeding device and support

Abstract

An apparatus for feeding or watering animals within cages includes a food container having an upwardly opening, cup-shaped configuration, and a cantilever bracket for supporting the container. The container includes a closed curved sidewall and integral bottom wall, and a connector assembly extending downwardly from the outer surface of the bottom wall. The connector assembly includes a generally cylindrical lug having one end secured to the bottom wall, and a locking bar extending diametrically and secured to the other end of the lug. The locking bar includes opposed rounded ends that extend outwardly of the lug. The cantilever bracket includes a distal end having a web with a top surface, and an opening formed in the top surface to receive the connector assembly. The opening comprises a cylindrical hole dimensioned to receive the cylindrical lug in close tolerance fit, and a pair of radially extending, diametrically opposed slots radiating from the hole and dimensioned to receive the locking bar. The locking bar and lug may be inserted into the opening, the locking bar extending completely through the slots. The container may be rotated about the axis of the cylindrical lug, whereby the ends of the locking bar impinge on the underside of the web of the bracket. The bottom surface of the container impinges on the top surface of the web, preventing any substantial movement of the container with respect to the bracket. A detent feature secures the container and prevent removal of the container by any likely animal interaction.