Abstract: A latch for securing the door of an animal cage or cell which comprises a cylindrical metal barrel having an open end internally screw threaded, and an opposite end internally constricted for holding the terminal of a cable which is interposed in slideable relation into the constriction. The cable is constructed to bind the cage door frame to the door post. The other end of the cable terminates in a loop which fits into a biased slot near the end of the metal barrel. A key interposed from the open end engages a screw threaded arbor stud, rotating it to move along the inner axis of the barrel. The screw threaded arbor stud has an axial projection at its inner end which penetrates the loop and holds it in place in fully locked position. When the key is removed from the barrel, the screw member is inaccessible and cannot be loosened, until the key is reapplied by an attendant or keeper to re-engage the arbor stud, releasing the loop of the cable.