What Cage is Best for a Guinea Pig? Your Ultimate Guide

If you’re on the hunt for the perfect cage for your guinea pig, you’ve landed in just the right spot. In our ultimate guide on “What cage is best for a guinea pig?” we will help you understand what your guinea pig needs from their living space, including basic requirements and how much room they require.

Finding a safe and comfortable home for your furry friends is crucial to their wellbeing. We’ll walk through different types of cages available, each with its own set of pros and cons.

So, if you’ve ever wondered, “What cage is best for a guinea pig?” you’re in the right place.

Understanding Guinea Pig Needs and Cage Requirements

Providing a good cage is important for the well-being of guinea pigs. Guinea pigs are sociable and gentle creatures and require a spacious and secure enclosure with hiding spots for their comfort and safety.

A suitable cage allows them enough space to move and play, contributing significantly to their overall health and happiness.

Types of Guinea Pig Cages

There are many types of guinea pig cages available, each has different features and benefits to suit the needs of both the guinea pigs and their owners. Here are some of the most common types:

Wire Cages:

These are one of the most popular types of guinea pig cages and typically have a wire frame with a plastic base tray. Wire cages provide good ventilation and visibility, allowing air to circulate freely and owners to easily observe their pets.

However, it’s important to ensure the wire spacing is appropriate to prevent the guinea pigs from getting their feet stuck.

Plastic Cages:

These cages are made entirely of plastic and often come with removable lids or sections for easy access. Plastic cages are lightweight and easy to clean, making them a convenient option for many guinea pig owners.

However, ventilation can sometimes be a concern with enclosed plastic cages, so it’s essential to choose one with adequate airflow.

C&C (Cubes and Coroplast) Cages:

C&C cages are customizable enclosures made from wire storage grids (cubes) and corrugated plastic (coroplast) sheets. They offer ample space for guinea pigs to move around and can be tailored to fit different layouts and configurations.

Many owners prefer CC cages for their versatility and ability to provide large living areas for guinea pigs to explore.

Wooden Cages:

Wooden cages are typically outdoor enclosures made from wood and wire mesh. They often feature multiple levels or compartments, providing separate areas for sleeping, eating, and playing.

Outdoor hutches are ideal for pet owners who want to give their furry friends access to fresh air and natural sunlight.

Multi-Level Cages:

These cages feature multiple levels or platforms connected by ramps or ladders. Multi-level cagesmaximize vertical space, allowing guinea pigs to exercise and explore different heights within their enclosure.

However, it’s essential to consider the size and spacing of ramps to ensure they are safe and easy for guinea pigs to navigate.

Key Features to Look for in a Guinea Pig Cage

When looking for a guinea pig cage, consider these key features:

Size:

It is important to ensure your guinea pig’s cage size is spacious enough to accommodate their natural behaviours and provide ample room for exercise.

The minimum recommended size for a guinea pig cage is about 0.7 square metres for one piggy, with an additional 0.2 square meters per extra guinea pig.

Ventilation:

Ventilation plays a critical role in maintaining a healthy environment inside the cage. A good flow of air prevents the buildup of ammonia from urine and helps keep bedding dry, reducing the risk of respiratory problems.

Easy access:

Choose a cage with large doors or multiple access points for convenient cleaning and interaction with your guinea pig.

Easy cleaning:

A clean habitat prevents diseases and keeps your pet healthy and happy; therefore, a cage that can be easily cleaned should be high on your priority list when selecting a cage.

Opting for cages with removable bottoms or trays can simplify this task.

Enrichment features:

Mimic guinea pig’s natural habitat by providing hiding spots like boxes or tunnels for security and entertainment.

Offer gnawing sticks and play spheres to keep guinea pigs active. Include safe ramps or platforms for increased activity, ensuring they’re not too steep to prevent injuries.

Safety features:

Look for guinea pig cages with narrow bar spacing and small wire mesh spaces to prevent escapes. Ensure the cage has secure locks and no sharp edges or protrusions that could harm your pet.

Room for expansion:

Choose a cage setup that allows for potential expansion or attachment of additional living space if you plan to add more guinea pigs in the future.

Size Recommendations

Your guinea pig’s cage size matters immensely. For one guinea pig, the minimum recommended size is 0.7 square meters, but if you’ve got room, aim higher. This extra space lets them exercise and play which is vital for their well-being.

If you’re considering adding additional guinea pigs to your family, remember that they’ll need ample room to live harmoniously together.

Doubling or even tripling the space can prevent squabbles and ensure each has its own territory.

Setting Up Your Guinea Pig’s New Home

Crafting a cosy and stimulating habitat is key to nurturing your guinea pig’s happiness and health.

Choosing the Right Bedding

Opt for paper-based or fleece lining as they are soft, absorbent, and easy on your pet’s delicate feet. Steer clear of wood shavings due to their potential dangers. Regularly changing the bedding will keep the cage clean and odour-free.

Cage Placement Matters

The cage location in your house is important. A quiet corner away from direct sunlight and loud noises creates an ideal habitat. This ensures they feel safe yet still part of family life without being exposed to stressors.

If placing your guinea pig cage outdoors, choose a shaded area protected from direct sunlight and adverse weather. Ensure the location is secure from potential predators.

Add In Accessories

Essential accessories for your guinea pig cage include bedding, caves and cosy hiding places, food and water dispensers, chew toys, and a designated litter area. These elements create a cosy and enriching environment for your guinea pigs to thrive.

Top Recommended Cages For Guinea Pigs

Finding the best house for your furry friend is super important. It’s not just about size, but also comfort, safety, and ease of cleaning. Here are some of my top choices:

Coops And Cages ‘Cottage’ 

Available in multiple colours, the Coops And Cages Cottage features two large opening doors for accessibility, a metal pull-out tray for easy cleaning, and a closing door to the sleeping area.

Made from rot-resistant fir wood with a waterproof asphalt roof, it’s durable and weatherproof.  The Cottage also includes a perch that can be used as a chew toy.

Somerzby ‘Tri-Level’ Guinea Pig Hutch

The Somerzby Tri Level guinea pig hutch has three self-contained levels, ideal for separating your guinea pigs or establishing a breeding bank.

Each of the three sections includes a pull-out tray for effortless cleaning, wire mesh for ventilation, and a sheltered area for sleeping and weather protection.

Its compact size makes it suitable for smaller backyards and perfect for use indoors or outdoors, including decks or patios.

Coops And Cages ‘Meadow’

Designed with your pets’ safety and comfort in mind, the Meadow features galvanised mesh wire to keep rodents out, a metal slide-out tray for effortless cleaning, and a ramp for easy access to the run area.

Its waterproof asphalt roof ensures your guinea pigs are protected from the elements, while three opening doors allow for convenient cleaning.

Somerzby ‘Mansion’

Suitable for up to 6 guinea pigs, the Mansion features a metal pull-out tray for effortless cleaning and a ramp for access to the run area.

With a waterproof asphalt roof covering the entire product, it protects from the elements. Plus, the door to the sleeping area comes with an external open and close metal rod for convenience and added security.

‘Lexi’ Portable Indoor Guinea Pig Cage

Tailored for indoor environments, the Lexi is ideal for guinea pigs and small animals, featuring a durable steel frame coated in grey Hammerite for long-lasting durability.

The high-sided plastic tray facilitates quick cleaning with its easy slide-out design, while the cage’s large top and side doors ensure convenient access; additionally, it boasts a ramp and platform for added space, along with castor wheels for effortless mobility as well as a bonus water bottle.

Somerzby ‘Villa’

The Villa guinea pig house from Somerzby has two levels for maximum play space, with a pull-out tray and sheltered sleeping area on the upper level.

All six doors open for easy access, and a latched door at the top of the ramp allows for separation between levels. You can extend the play area with the Villa Run.

Maintenance and Cleaning Tips for Guinea Pig Cages

Keeping your guinea pig’s cage clean is crucial for their health and happiness. To start, having a regular cleaning schedule can make all the difference.

Daily spot cleans are essential; remove any soiled bedding or uneaten food to prevent mould and bacteria growth. A more thorough clean, including changing out all bedding and scrubbing the cage, should be done weekly.

For deeper cleans, use pet-safe disinfectants available from pet stores. These products ensure that while you’re eliminating germs, you’re not introducing harmful chemicals into your guinea pig’s home.

FAQs in Relation to What Cage is Best for a Guinea Pig?

What is the best indoor cage for a guinea pig?

A spacious, well-ventilated cage with easy access for cleaning is best. Some top picks include the Deluxe Double and Lexi.

Do guinea pigs like 2 level cages?

Yes, they enjoy exploring. Two levels offer more space and stimulation but ensure ramps are safe and shallow.

Do guinea pig cages need a top?

Guinea pigs don’t typically try to jump out.

However, if the cage is placed outdoors or in an area with potential risks, adding a roof can provide extra security for your pets.

What is the best layout for a guinea pig cage?

The ideal cage has open space with hiding spots. Include areas for feeding, sleeping, and playing to keep them happy and active.

Jordan’s Wrap

Determining what cage is best for a guinea pig is crucial for their health, happiness, and overall well-being.

Consider factors such as size, ventilation, ease of cleaning, and accessibility to create a comfortable and enriching environment for your furry companions.

Whether opting for a spacious indoor enclosure or a secure outdoor setup, prioritise safety and comfort to ensure your guinea pigs thrive in their new home.

By investing in the best cage suited to your guinea pigs’ needs, you’ll provide them with a safe and enjoyable living space for years to come.