Guinea Pig Cages: Setting Up Your Cavy’s Home

Did you realize that America has more pet Guinea pigs than any other country? According to AVMA research from 2022, approximately 1.5 million households in the United States have cavies. Of course, these tiny guys are quite social and should always have roommates. This suggests that the United States might have up to 3.8 million Guinea pigs. Guinea pigs are adorable and relatively easy to care for. In fact, providing your pet with a good cage is frequently half the battle. In this post, a local Carroll, IA veterinarian answers some commonly asked issues about Guinea pig cage arrangement.

Do Guinea Pigs Prefer Multi-Level Cages?

You can acquire your dogs a multi-level cage, but make sure it is one that they cannot fall from. It should feature an enclosed ramp that is safe and easy for your pet to climb, and the upper levels should be free of gaps and openings that your pet could fall through. This is critical since these guys don’t have the best vision, and could easily walk over a steep drop and injure themselves.

Can You Let Guinea Pigs Run Around Your House?

Living in a cage can be boring for an active tiny ball of fur. Your adorable pet will appreciate and profit from spending time outside of their cage. This is also an excellent opportunity for you to play and spend time with your pet.

Just make sure to petproof before letting your tiny friend out to play. Guinea pigs have open-rooted teeth and will reflexively nibble on anything that comes within reach of their little paws. This can be risky because many common household things are hazardous to these guys. Some substances are poisonous to pets, while others can suffocate or cause internal harm.

Some of the issues you’d need to address include:

• Small and sharp things: This includes items such as pencils, safety pins, paper clips, miniature toys, rubber bands, jewelry, and fishing tackle.
• Spaces: You’ll also need to seal off gaps behind and beneath furniture and cabinets. Other potential hazards include staircases, stoves, pools, and the spaces underneath recliners. Also, ensure that all vents are closed and that all doors, screens, and windows are secure and escape-proof.
• Chemicals: Keep anything potentially harmful out of the reach of those lovely paws. Cleaning agents, medications, drain openers, paint, insecticides, and automated devices are examples of such items.
• Ropes and cords: Smaller animals can easily become entangled in rope, thread, or cord. Consider draping cords and blanket or pillow tassels.
• Poisonous Plants: Many common household plants are poisonous to pets. This list includes the Lily, Daffodil, Oleander, Tulips, Amaryllis, Sago Palm, Aloe, Cyclamen, Dieffenbachia, Rhododendron, Begonia, Chrysanthemum, Lily Of The Valley, Autumn Crocuses, Azalea Ivy, Holly, Hyacinth, Castor Bean, Iris, and Marijuana.

Ask your Carroll, IA vet for more information on cavyproofing.

What Kind Of Bedding Do I Need?

One of the most important choices you will make is what bedding to use. Dirty bedding not only stinks, but it also harbors bacteria, increasing the likelihood of your pet contracting respiratory and fungal infections. You want something that absorbs moisture, dries quickly, and removes odors. It should also be free of toxins.

Avoid wood or paper-based beddings. Pine and cedar products are particularly hazardous since the oils in them can cause respiratory problems in little animals. Fleece is actually a viable option. What else can you try? Beach towels! They are also washable, which is a plus. Furthermore, they are available in a variety of vibrant hues, making the cage more appealing to your little friend. You may also place a pad below to soften it. Use anything designed expressly for pets to ensure that it is not poisonous or otherwise hazardous.

Maintaining cleanliness in your pet’s cage is also essential. We recommend doing spot cleaning every day. This includes disposing of garbage and uneaten food, as well as changing soiled hay and padding. You should undertake a thorough cleaning once a week, which includes washing dishes, changing bedding and litter, and wiping down the cage. For more information, consult with your veterinarian.

What Can I Do to Make My Pet’s Cage Fun?

If you believe that boredom isn’t a problem for pets, think again. Our furry companions, like humans, can become depressed and unhappy if they are not stimulated and enriched. This can have an effect on your pet’s health and well-being. You’ll want to include some enjoyable toys and accessories. Chew toys are an absolute necessity. These tiny fellows must chew quite a bit to keep their teeth healthy! You can also make many of your pet’s toys. Ask your vet for tips on this. 

You may also keep things interesting by rearranging your pet’s cage on a regular basis. This will make things more enjoyable and thrilling for your tiny buddy. Cozies and exercise wheels may be appreciated by your pet as well. Just get solid wheels: wire wheels might be dangerous.

Where Should I Put My Guinea Pig Cage?

The ancient adage “location, location, location” is undoubtedly relevant here. Finding the proper location is critical for your pet’s comfort, health, and happiness!

There are some things you should and should not do. 

Don’t put your pet’s cage in bright sunlight, a drafty environment, or someplace that is extremely loud or busy. Guinea pigs are little and easily scared. Of course, your furry friends will not be happy if they are too secluded. A peaceful area is typically a good bet.

You should also consider temperature. Guinea pigs are not tolerant of severe temperatures and prefer temperatures between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

Finally, don’t forget about your other pets. If you have a dog or a cat, you may place the cage on a strong table or something similar to keep Fido and Fluffy away.

What Are the Worst Cages for Guinea Pigs?

You can get a variety of cages in stores and online, but that does not imply they are all safe or appropriate for your pet. We would recommend against using plastic buckets. Glass cages are likewise not ideal. Anything with a mesh or wire floor is also risky. These floors do not retain the substrate in place and can cause catastrophic injury. For more information, consult with your veterinarian.

What Size Cage Is Best For Guinea Pigs?

That basically depends on how many guinea pigs you desire. The Humane Society offers an official guide that serves as a decent guideline. One Guinea pig needs at least 7.5 square feet of space. However, you should never have just one Guinea pig, unless 10.5 square feet is a good minimum for two. A minimum of 13 square feet is required for three people. The minimum size advised for four people is 16 square feet.

Ask your Carroll, IA vet for more information on caring for your Guinea pig. We are happy to help!

Schedule an Appointment at Our Carroll, IA Pet Clinic

Have any questions on how to care for a Guinea pig? Have you recently adopted one of these adorable little guys? Contact us today, your local Carroll, IA pet hospital! We are committed to providing exceptional treatment.