Housing
Housing
Embedded Files
Space
Space
Unlike many other small animals, guinea pigs cannot use running wheels. This is because running wheels damage their spines. In addition to this, their eyes are positioned on the sides of their head, making it harder to focus on what is right in front of them. Not only is it unhealthy for guinea pigs to use running wheels, but they will not want to because they cannot see where they are going. To get exercise, guinea pigs will need extra space.Β
One sow (a female guinea pig) will need 7.5 square feet. For two or more guinea pigs, take the amount of guinea pigs, multiply it by four, and that is generally how much space they will need in square feet. However, boars (male guinea pigs) are generally more territorial, so add an additional 4 square feet to minimize fighting.
In addition to larger cages, guinea pigs also benefit from having floor time once every day. Here is a video that explains floor time in more detail.
Store-bought Guinea Pig Cages
Store-bought Guinea Pig Cages
It can be difficult to find an appropriately sized guinea pig cage. Cages advertised in pet stores as guinea pig cages are almost never suitable. Below are some store-bought cages that are suitable for guinea pigs.
Guinea Habitat Guinea Pig Cage by MidWest Homes for Pets (8ft2)
Krolik XXL Rabbit Cage by Ferplast (10.5ft2)
Ferplast Krolik Extra-Large Rabbit Cage with Wood/Wire Hutch by Ferplast (9ft2)
guineapigcagesstore.com (7.5-16ft2)
Also sells second floors
offbeatclub.com (7.5-16ft2)
DIY Guinea Pig Cages
DIY Guinea Pig Cages
DIY guinea pig cages are probably the least expensive option. It is possible to make a guinea pig cage out of many things, since guinea pigs arenβt climbers. If paper bedding is desired, build a base out of coroplast or other waterproof material. Wood may be used, but be sure to line the interior with a waterproof tarp. Coroplast can be obtained from old signs, or at guineapigcagesstore.com. Below are some basic cage designs β
DIY Storage Grid Cage
DIY Storage Grid Cage
Materials
Materials
At least 10 storage grids
At least 20 zipties, or 10 zipties and 10 storage grid connectors
Fleece liner OR cage base with paper bedding
Steps
Steps
Connect the storage grids together using the zipties and/or storage grid connectors. A lid usually is not necessary unless other animals/young children are present.Β
If fleece is being used, place the fleece liner under the playpen. If paper bedding is being used, put a cage base inside the playpen.
How many square feet is this cage?
How many square feet is this cage?
2 x 5 storage grids β 7.5ft2
2 x 6 storage grids β 10.5ft2
2 x 7 storage grids β 13ft2
2 x 8 storage grids β 16ft2
DIY Playpen Cage
DIY Playpen Cage
Materials
Materials
A playpen with a perimeter of at least 140 inches, and at least 12 inches tall
Fleece liner OR cage base with paper bedding
Steps
Steps
Set up the playpen according to the instructions
If fleece is being used, place the fleece liner under the playpen.Β If paper bedding is being used, put a cage base inside the playpen.
Be sure to determine the area of your playpen to ensure that it meets the space guidelines for your cavies.
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