Best Guinea Pig Cage
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All proud owners of pet guinea pigs know how important it is to provide a comfortable and safe living space for their fragile pets. A proper cage is essential for these pets’ health. But, with so many cage choices available online and at brick and mortar pet stores, it can be overwhelming for many folks to choose the best guinea pig cage.
It is really important to consider the size, material, and design of cages. After all, guinea pigs need enough space to move around and exercise. A cage with ample floor space is crucial and the cage should be made of safe, sturdy materials. Also, your guinea pig’s cage should be easy to clean and maintain with ample ventilation and lots of natural light.
We’ve made a list of what we think are the best cage options available online. Our recommendations are based primarily on size, durability, design, and affordability. Whether you are a first-time small pet owner or an experienced guinea pig enthusiast, our guide will help you find the perfect cage for your adorable companion.
Why a Good Guinea Pig Cage Matters
Owning one or more guinea pigs and providing them with a good cage is very important to their health, happiness, and survival.
Here are four good reasons why a proper guinea pig cage matters:
1 Space
Guinea pigs are active animals that need plenty of space to comfortably move around. A good cage should provide enough room for your guinea pig to exercise, play, and explore. The minimum interior area for a guinea pig cage is 7.5 square feet for one guinea pig and an additional 2.5 square feet for each additional guinea pig. Anything smaller simply won’t do!
2 Safety
A cage should be a safe habitat for your guinea pig. The cage should be made of sturdy materials that will hold up well to guinea pig chewing and scratching. Guinea pigs are vulnerable prey animals, so the cage should have secure doors and latches to prevent your guinea pig from getting out or other animals from getting in.
3 Cleanliness
Keeping your guinea pig’s cage clean is critical for their health. A proper cage should be easy to clean and maintain. It should have a solid bottom or a removable tray to make cleaning up waste and spilled food easier. It should also have good ventilation to prevent the buildup of ammonia and other harmful gasses.
4 Enrichment
Guinea pigs are highly dependent social animals that need plenty of physical activities and mental stimulation to enrich and entertain themselves. A good cage should provide plenty of ways for your guinea pig to get the stimulation and exercise it needs, such as toys, tunnels, and hiding places. The cage should be big enough so there is plenty of space for your guinea pig to move around, play, and explore.
Overall, a good guinea pig cage is extremely important to the pet’s overall health and happiness. By giving your guinea pig a spacious, safe, clean, and stimulating environment, you can ensure that it lives a healthy and contented life.
Types of Guinea Pig Cages
There are several types of guinea pig cage to choose from. Each cage type has unique advantages and disadvantages.
Here are four of the most common types of guinea pig cages:
Indoor cages: These are the most common type of guinea pig cages. They are designed to be kept indoors and are usually made of wire or plastic. Indoor cages come in various sizes and shapes, and they often have multiple levels. These cages provide a safe and secure environment for your guinea pigs plus they are easy to clean and maintain.
Outdoor cages: Outdoor cages are used outside in a garden or backyard, as the name implies. They are usually larger than indoor cages and provide more space for multiple guinea pigs to run and play. Outdoor cages are made of wood or metal and are often covered with a roof to protect these sensitive pets from the weather. Because they are outside and often house several guinea pigs, outdoor cages need more maintenance and cleaning than typical indoor cages.
While we believe that having an outdoor enclosure to run and play is good for guinea pigs, we recommend that their cage, where they spend the majority of their time, is kept inside. Guinea pigs are susceptible to draughts and cold, plus they are prey animals, so will always be safer , healthier and happier when kept indoors.
C&C cages: C&C cages (Cubes and Coroplast) are becoming increasingly popular among guinea pig owners. They are made of wire grids and plastic sheets and can be customized to fit any size or shape. C&C cages provide ample space for your guinea pigs to move around and can be readily expanded if you need a bigger cage. C&C cages are usually easy to clean and maintain too.
DIY cages: DIY cages are cages that you make yourself using materials such as plywood, hardware cloth, paint, and plastic. DIY cages can be built to fit any size or shape and can be a cost-effective option for handy homeowners. The downside though is they require more time and effort to build and maintain than purchased guinea pig cages.
When selecting a guinea pig cage, be sure to get one that has plenty of space for your guinea pigs to move around and play, and one that is easy to clean and maintain.
Size Requirements for Guinea Pig Cages
Size matters and it is an important factor because guinea pigs need ample space to move around, exercise, and play. The Humane Society of the United States recommends at least 7.5 square feet of uninterrupted space for one guinea pig, while a pair needs at least 10.5 square feet. However, it’s always better to provide more space if possible.
Unfortunately, most cages sold in pet stores do not meet the criteria for adequate space for guinea pigs. Therefore, it’s important to choose a cage that provides enough space. A bigger cage means happier and healthier guinea pigs.
When shopping for a cage, look at how accessible the cage will be for cleaning and feeding. Check out how well it is made, and the materials it is made with. Not just any old cage will do!
Guinea pigs need a cage that allows them to move around freely, play, and potty conveniently. They need to be able to do their favorite guinea pig things, like foraging for food and exploring their domains. A cage with multiple levels and hiding spots is an ideal and stimulating habitat for your pet guinea pig.
Along with the cage design, you should consider its size. The number of guinea pigs you will have is key. If you have more than one guinea pig, you’ll need a bigger cage. The more guinea pigs you have, the more space you’ll need. A cage that is too small can lead to physical and mental health issues, like obesity, respiratory, and despondency problems.
Providing a spacious and stimulating habitat is essential for the health and well-being of your guinea pigs. When selecting a cage, be sure to get one that provides plenty of room for your pets to move around, play, exercise, and explore.
Materials Used in Guinea Pig Cages
Selecting the right cage for your guinea pig is truly key, but equally important are the materials used in it.
There are three main materials used in guinea pig cages — wire, plastic, and wood:
Wire
Wire cages are really common and popular for guinea pigs. They are very affordable, easy to clean, and provide good ventilation. However, it is important to choose the right gauge of wire to prevent your guinea pig from getting their head or feet stuck. A 14-gauge wire is recommended for guinea pig cages. No matter where you get it, be careful and don’t buy the wrong kind of cage. Also, wire floors are uncomfortable and dangerous for guinea pigs, so cover wire floors with a solid surface or a proper cage floor liner.
Plastic
Plastic cages are another option for small cage pets like guinea pigs. They are lightweight, easy to clean, and come in a variety of colors and designs. However, it is important to choose a cage made of non-toxic plastic to avoid any harm to your guinea pig. Also, plastic cages may not provide as much ventilation as wire or wooden cages.
Wood
Wooden cages are a great choice for guinea pigs as they provide a natural and comfortable habitat. They are usually well-made, sturdy, and durable. You should get a cage made of untreated wood (chemical, paint, or wood stain) to avoid any chemicals or toxins that may harm your guinea pig. Also, wooden cages may require more maintenance and cleaning to prevent mold, mildew, or microbial contamination.
Please note: Each material used in making small pet (hamster, guinea pig, rat, rabbit, bird, etc.) cages has both advantages and disadvantages. It is important to consider your guinea pig’s needs and preferences when determining what is the right cage for yours.
Locations for Guinea Pig Cages
When choosing the right spot for your guinea pig’s cage, there are a few important things to consider to protect your pet’s well-being, health and happiness.
Draft-Free Living Space
Guinea pigs are really susceptible to upper respiratory infections, so it’s important that their living space is draft-free. Avoid placing their cage in drafty areas, such as near open windows, doors, fans, or vents. Also, never put their cage on cold surfaces like concrete floors, as this will surely cause health problems.
Bright Room
Guinea pigs like bright, well-lit areas. Don’t place the cage in dark or enclosed spaces, such as closets or basements. Instead, choose a room with natural light or provide good (non-fluorescent) artificial lighting.
Ample Space
Guinea pigs need lots of space to move around and play. You should provide at least 7.5 square feet of unhindered, open space for one guinea pig, and add 2.5 to 3 square feet for each additional guinea pig. When choosing a location for your guinea pig’s cage, be sure that there is enough space to meet these basic needs.
Accessibility
Please make sure that the spot you choose for your guinea pig’s cage is easily accessible for cleaning and maintenance. Never put the cage in a place that is hard to reach or requires moving furniture for you to get to.
Cage Cleaning
Keeping your guinea pig’s cage clean is necessary for their health and general well-being. A dirty cage will create a buildup of nasty bacteria and stinking odors, which will cause respiratory problems and other health concerns for your pet and people. When choosing a guinea pig cage it is important to think about the ease of cleaning and the frequency of cleaning.
Think about the size and design of the cage. For instance, a cage with multiple levels and hard-to-reach corners can make cleaning more difficult and time-consuming. On one hand, a cage with a simple design and easy-to-remove components can make cleaning a breeze. On the other hand, a simple cage is a boring cage for the guinea pig and for you. We suggest a compromise. That is look for a two-level cage that has plenty of room to play but that is easy to clean.
Another thing to consider is the materials used in the cage. A cage made of durable, non-porous materials like plastic or metal can be easily wiped down and disinfected. However, a cage made of wood or other porous materials may require more frequent cleaning and disinfecting to prevent bacteria buildup.
When cleaning your guinea pig’s cage, it’s important to use safe and effective cleaning products. Avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaning products that could be harmful to your pet. Instead, opt for guinea pig-friendly disinfectants or natural cleaning solutions like vinegar and water.
To make cleaning your guinea pig’s cage easier, buy bedding and litter that is easy to spot clean. Some types of bedding, like fleece or paper-based bedding, can be easily removed and replaced as needed. Also, a designated guinea pig cage potty area can make spot cleaning easier and more efficient.
Overall, buying a guinea pig cage that is easy to clean and maintain is essential for your pet’s health and contentment. By considering things like size, design, materials, and cleaning, you can be sure that your guinea pig’s home stays clean and comfortable.
Cage Price and Quality
Cage price and quality are two important considerations. It may be tempting to go for the cheapest option available but remember that a low price tag usually means substandard quality.
A well-made cage is durable and may cost more upfront, but it will save you money in the long run by minimizing replacements. Also, a high-quality cage will be a safe and comfortable living space for your little friend, which is crucial for the guinea pig’s health and happiness. Think about it — would you rather live in a drafty, wet home or a warm, dry home?
When considering cage price and quality, keep in mind that there are a host of options available at all sorts of price points.
Here are three main things to bear in mind when cage shopping:
- Material: The type of material the cage is made of greatly affects both the price and the quality. While plastic and wire cages tend to be less expensive, they may not be as durable and safe as wooden or metal cages.
- Size: The size of the cage needs to be considered. Larger cages may cost more but they have more space for your guinea pig to run around and play. This is essential for their physical and mental well-being.
- Features: Some cages come with cool, added features like ramps, hideouts, and water bottles. While these features are nice and definitely convenient, they usually add to the total cost of the cage. Consider which features your guinea pig really needs and which ones you can do without. After all, you can always add those features later if you want.
To be sure, the best guinea pig cage for you will depend on your budget, what your guinea pig really needs, and your own personal preferences. By taking into account cage price and cage quality, you can make an informed consumer decision that will give your little pet a safe and comfortable domain.
Top 5 Guinea Pig Cages
There are a lot of cage choices, so to help you decide, we have put together a list of what we think are the top five guinea pig cages for you.
MidWest Guinea Habitat – This top-of-the-line modular cage is expandable and comes with a durable, PVC-lined canvas bottom. It is very easy to set up and provides ample space for your guinea pig to roam around and play.
Living World Deluxe Habitat – This deluxe cage comes with a hideaway space for your guinea pig to retreat to and is easy to clean. It is also spacious enough for your pet to run around in and play comfortably.
Krolik Rabbit Cage with Wire Extension – Yes, it’s called a rabbit cage but it’s ideal for all cage pets. This cage is a perfect habitat for housing two guinea pigs and comes with a wire extension for added space. It is easy to assemble and clean, and provides a comfortable living space for your small pets.
Aivituvin Indoor/Outdoor Wheeled Rabbit & Guinea Pig Hutch – This weather-resistant wooden (fir) rolling cage (don’t worry, two of the five wheels lock for safety!) is perfect for indoor or outdoor use. It comes with a removable tray for easy cleaning and provides ample space for one or two of your guinea pigs to play and exercise in fresh air.
MEDEHOO Two-Story Guinea Pig Cage – This guinea pig cage is a perfect blend of comfort, convenience and safety. It features 6 lockable doors with wire mesh that ensure good air circulation. The 2 deeper pull-out trays and removable wire mesh make cleaning easy and prevent your pet from standing on waste. Plus the lockable wheels mean that the cage can be kept inside and moved outside on nice days or for easy cleaning.
The Best Guinea Pig Cage
Certainly, it can be really overwhelming for many folks to choose the best guinea pig cage.
When shopping for a guinea pig cage make no mistake, it should never be just about the immediate cost.
In fact, many factors and cage features need to be considered — like the cage size, materials, assembly, safety, durability, longevity, and cleaning ease. Our best guinea pig cage top 5 recommendations support these features and more, ensuring a comfortable and safe living space for your cuddly friend.
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