Guinea Pig Cages: Making Your Cavy A Happy Home

Did you know that America may have the most pet Guinea pigs of any country? According to research compiled by the AVMA in 2022, around 1.5 million US households have cavies. Of course, these tiny guys are extremely gregarious and should always live with others. This means there could be up to 3.8 million Guinea pigs in the United States. Guinea pigs are adorable and require little maintenance. In reality, providing your pet with an excellent cage is frequently only half the battle. In this post, a local Louisville, KY veterinarian answers some typical queries about Guinea pig cage configuration.

What Is The Ideal Size Cage For A Guinea Pig?

That basically comes down to the number of guinea pigs you desire. The Humane Society offers an official guide that you can follow. At the absolute least, one Guinea pig needs approximately 7.5 square feet of living space. However, you should never have just one, as they get very lonely by themselves. A cage that’s at least 10.5 square feet is much preferable as a minimum for two. For three people, at least 13 square feet is required. For four people, the minimum required size is 16 square feet.

Do Guinea Pigs Enjoy Multi-Level Cages?

You can acquire a multi-level cage for your pets, but make sure they can’t fall from it. It should have an enclosed ramp that is safe and easy for your pet to climb, and the upper levels should not have any gaps or openings your pet can fall through. This is critical because these guys do not have good vision and could easily fall from a high spot.

Is It Okay To Let Guinea Pigs Run Around The House?

Living in a cage may be pretty boring. Your adorable pet will both enjoy and profit from spending time outside of its cage. This is also a fantastic opportunity to play with and spend time with your pet.

Just be sure you petproof your space before letting your little one out to play. Guinea pigs have open-rooted teeth and will nibble on everything and anything within reach of their little paws. This can be harmful because numerous ordinary household things are dangerous to them. Some items can poison pets, while others can suffocate them or cause internal harm.

The following are some of the issues you would like to address:

Small/Sharp Items: This includes pencils, safety pins, paper clips, miniature toys, rubber bands, jewelry, fishing tackle, and more.

Smaller animals can easily become entangled in rope, string, or cord. Don’t forget about draping cords and tassels on blankets or pillows.

Toxic Houseplants: A variety of household plants are poisonous to pets. Some examples include the following:

• Lily 
• Daffodil
• Oleander
• Tulips
• Rhododendron
• Begonia
• Chrysanthemum
• Lilies of the Valley
• Azalea  
• Ivy

Do plenty of research, and make sure that you only have safe plants. If you aren’t sure whether something is safe or not, err on the side of caution and keep it out of paws’ reach.

Open Spaces: You should also block off any gaps behind and beneath furniture and cabinets. Other potential hazards include staircases, stoves, pools, and gaps beneath recliners. Also, make sure any vents are closed and that all doors, screens, and windows are secure and escape-proof.

Chemicals: Keep anything potentially harmful out of reach of those adorable paws. Cleaning agents, medications, drain openers, paint, pesticides, and automated items are all examples.

Of course, your Louisville, KY vet can offer more insight on how to make your home safe for a little furball. 

What Types of Cages Are Harmful to Guinea Pigs?

You may get a variety of cages in stores and online, but that doesn’t mean they’re all safe or ideal for your pet. We would not recommend using plastic totes. Glass cages are likewise a poor choice. Anything with a mesh or wire floor is also potentially dangerous. These floors do not hold substrate and can result in serious injury. For more information, speak with your veterinarian.

What Type Of Bedding Do I Require?

One of the most crucial selections you’ll make is the bedding to use. Dirty bedding will not only stink, but it can also harbor bacteria, increasing your pet’s chance of ending up with respiratory and fungal infections. You want something absorbent, quick-drying, and odor-free. Of course, it should not be poisonous or otherwise unsafe.

Avoid using wooden or paper bedding. Pine and cedar products are especially harmful since the oils they contain can cause respiratory problems in small animals. Fleece is a good choice. Another thing you can try? Beach towels! These are particularly convenient because they can be washed. Furthermore, they come in a variety of vivid hues, making the cage more enjoyable for your pet. To make it softer, place a pad below. Use only things made expressly for pets, though: this will help to ensure it is not poisonous or otherwise dangerous.

Cage cleanliness is also critical. We recommend that you clean spots on a daily basis. This includes getting rid of garbage and uneaten food, as well as changing filthy hay and padding. You’ll want to undertake a thorough cleaning once a week, which includes washing dishes, changing bedding and litter, and wiping down the cage. For more information, speak with your veterinarian.

How Do I Make My Pet’s Cage Interesting?

If you believe boredom isn’t a huge problem for pets, think again. Our furry little friends, like humans, can become unhappy and sad if they are not stimulated and enriched. This can have an impact on the health and well-being of your pet. You should provide interesting toys and accessories. Chew toys are absolutely necessary. To keep their teeth healthy, these little fellas have to chew a lot!

Rearranging your pet’s cage on a regular basis might also provide interest. This will help keep things interesting for your small friend. Cozies and exercise wheels may also be beneficial to your pet. Just purchase solid wheels; wire wheels are unsafe.

Where Should I Put My Guinea Pig Cage?

The classic phrase “location, location, location” really applies here. Choosing the correct location is critical for your pet’s comfort, health, and happiness.

There are some things to remember, as well as some things to avoid. You should not place your pet’s cage in bright sunlight, a drafty area, or someplace that is too loud or busy. Guinea pigs are tiny and easily startled! Of course, your furry friends will not be pleased if they are too secluded. A quiet corner is usually your best bet.

Keep temperature in mind. Guinea pigs are most comfortable in temperatures ranging from 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

Last but not least, think about your other pets. If you have a dog or cat, place the cage on a strong table or something similar to keep Fido and Fluffy away.

Consult your Louisville, KY veterinarian for more information on how to care for your Guinea pig. We are pleased to assist you!

Schedule An Appointment At Our Louisville, KY Pet Clinic

Do you have any queries about guinea pig care? Contact us here at your Louisville, KY pet hospital right away! We are committed to providing outstanding care.