US 5,054,427 A · Insertable stacking pet toy maze

Abstract

A single- or multi-level transparent insertable stacking maze pet toy designed for use in an auxiliary containment structure, preferably a commonly available animal cage such as a 10-gallon tank, and comprising alternately stacking maze elements and horizontal planar surfaces, which form compartments through which a small animal can travel, with efficient means for changing the maze routes. Also called a three-dimensional maze in its multi-level form. The maze elements further comprise vertical wall units. In the preferred embodiment flat rectangular wall units also called grid elements span the containment structure longitudinally and transversely and interlock at right angles by means of slots placed along their lengths at intervals. A pluraliy of apertures are placed indeterminately along the wall units between the slots. Maze routes can be changed by interchanging wall units and repositioning planar surfaces. The maze encourages burrowing activity in small animals and entices children to restructure maze routes. While providing more play area, it preserves the original amount of living space above the top planar surface. It accommodates and supports food, bedding, and toys. The design is eye appealing, unobstructive to viewing, and easy to clean. Repetition of wall units and planar surfaces and elimination of a containment structure provide advantages in manufacturing, transporting, packaging, and retailing.

Claims18

Dependent claims

An insertable small animal maze for use in a containment structure and comprising:

at least one maze element for guiding and restricting animal travel, said maze element further comprising at least one vertical wall unit;
at least one horizontal planar surface with at least one aperture large enough for animal passage;
wherein the maze elements and horizontal planar surfaces are alternately stackable and both are insertable into said containment structure, and further,
a first means for allowing change of maze routes wherein the horizontal planar surfaces are repositionable or rearrangeable, thereby relocating said at least one aperture in the horizontal planar surfaces.

1 more element

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Insertable stacking pet toy maze

Life of this patent

Insertable stacking pet toy maze

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims18