Did you know that America probably has the most pet Guinea pigs of any country? According to research conducted by the AVMA in 2022, approximately 1.5 million US households have cavies. Of course, these tiny guys are highly friendly and should always be roommates. This suggests that there could be up to 3.8 million Guinea pigs in the United States. Guinea pigs are adorable and low-maintenance. In reality, providing your pint-sized pals with an excellent cage is frequently only half the battle. In this post, a local Burleson, TX veterinarian addresses some typical queries about Guinea pig cage arrangements.7 

What Kinds of Cages Are Bad for Guinea Pigs?

You may purchase a variety of cages in stores and online, but this does not imply that they are all safe or ideal for your pint-sized pals. We advise against using plastic buckets. Glass cages are likewise not an ideal option. Anything with mesh or wire flooring is also dangerous. These floorings do not keep the substrate in place and can cause serious injury. For further information, ask your veterinarian.

What Kind Of Bedding Do I Need?

Bedding is very important. Dirty bedding not only stinks, but it also harbors bacteria, raising the possibility of your little buddies contracting respiratory and fungal ailments. You want something nontoxic that absorbs, dries quickly, and eliminates odors. Avoid using bedding made of wood or paper. Pine and cedar products are especially harmful since the oils can cause respiratory problems in small animals. Fleece is a good choice. Something else you could try? There are beach towels! These are also useful because they are washable. They also come in a variety of vibrant hues, making the cage more appealing to your cat. You may also add a pad underneath to make it softer. Use a product designed specifically for pets to ensure it is not poisonous or otherwise dangerous.

Keeping your pint-sized pals’ cage clean is also critical. We recommend spot cleaning on a daily basis. This includes removing garbage and uneaten food, as well as changing dirty hay and padding. You should undertake a thorough cleaning once a week, which includes washing dishes, replacing bedding and litter, and wiping off the cage. For further information, ask your veterinarian.

How Do I Make My Pets’ Cage More Fun For Them?

If you think boredom isn’t an issue for pets, think again. Our furry friends, like humans, can become depressed and unhappy if they are not stimulated and enriched. This can truly have an impact on a miniature furball’s health and well-being. You’ll want to add some entertaining toys and accessories. Chew toys are a requirement. These tiny critters have to chew quite a bit to keep their teeth healthy! You can make a lot of your pets’ things yourself, out of typical household items. Just stick with things you know are safe. Ask your vet for more information.

You may also keep things exciting by moving your caviess’ cage around on a regular basis. This will help keep things interesting for your tiny companion. Cozies and exercise wheels could also appeal to your little buddies. Just get solid wheels, as wire wheels might be dangerous.

Where Should I Put a Guinea Pig Cage?

The old phrase, “location, location, location,” certainly applies here. Finding the appropriate position is critical for your pets’ comfort, health, and enjoyment!

There are several do’s and don’ts to consider. You don’t want to place a cage in full sunlight, in a drafty area, or somewhere excessively loud or busy. Guinea pigs are relatively little and easily startled, and may feel uneasy if there’s too much commotion around them. Of course, your tiny friends will be unhappy if they are too secluded. A peaceful area is usually a good bet.

You should also consider the temperature. Guinea pigs do not withstand severe temperatures and prefer temperatures ranging from 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

Finally, consider your other pets. If you have a dog or cat, you might want to place the cage on a strong table or something similar to keep Fido and Fluffy away. Your cavies probably won’t feel very safe with a giant (to them) furry face staring in at them! 

Ask your Burleson, TX veterinarian for further information on how to care for your Guinea pigs. We are pleased to assist!

What Is The Most Suitable Cage Size For A Guinea Pig?

This ultimately depends on how many guinea pigs you want. The Humane Society offers official guidance that serves as a suitable benchmark. A minimum of 7.5 square feet is recommended for each Guinea pig. However, you should never have just one Guinea pig, and 10.5 square feet is a much better minimum for two. It would take at least 13 square feet to accommodate three people. The minimum recommended size for four people is 16 square feet.

You can acquire a multi-level cage for your Guinea pigs, but be sure it does not allow them to slip out. It should feature a covered ramp that is safe and easy for these guys to climb, and there should be no gaps or openings on the upper levels where they could fall. This is critical because these guys have limited vision.

Can Guinea Pigs Run Around Your House?

Living in a cage might become tedious for a busy tiny ball of fur. Your adorable pet will both enjoy and profit from spending some time outside of their cage. This is also an excellent opportunity to play and spend time with miniature furballs.

Just make sure you thoroughly petproof before letting your tiny friend out to play. Guinea pigs have open-rooted teeth and will nibble on everything within reach of their little paws. This can be risky, as many ordinary household products are dangerous to these guys. Some products are poisonous to pets, while others can strangle them or cause internal harm.

The following are some of the issues you may want to address:

Small/sharp objects: This category contains various items such as pens, safety pins, paper clips, small toys, rubber bands, jewelry, and fishing tackle.

Ropes/Cords: Small animals can easily become entangled in rope, string, or cord. Do not neglect drape cords or blanket or pillow tassels.

Unsafe Plants: Many domestic plants are poisonous to pets. This list contains the following:

• Aloe 
• Cyclamen 
• Dieffenbachia
• Rhododendron
• Begonia
• Chrysanthemum
• Lily of the Valley
• Lily 
• Daffodil
• Oleander 
• Tulips
• Amaryllis 
• Sago palms
• Autumn crocus
• Azalea 
• Ivy
• Holly 
• Hyacinth
• Castor bean
• Iris 
• Marijuana

Unsafe Spaces

You’ll also need to seal off gaps behind and beneath furniture and cabinets. Other potential hazards include staircases, stoves, pools, and the areas under recliners. Also, make sure all vents are closed and that doors, screens, and windows are secure and escape-proof.

Chemicals

Keep any potentially harmful substances out of reach of those adorable paws. Cleaning agents, medicines, drain openers, paint, insecticides, and automated devices are examples of such items.

Make An Appointment At Our Burleson, TX Pet Clinic

Do you have any queries about caring for Guinea pigs? Contact us, your neighborhood Burleson, TX pet hospital, now! We are committed to providing high-quality care.