Did you know that America has the highest number of pet Guinea pigs of any country? According to AVMA data from 2022, roughly 1.5 million US families have cavies. Of course, these little fellows are really friendly and should always have roommates. That means that, hopefully, the majority of these families have more than one. This indicates that there could be up to 3.8 million Guinea pigs in the United States! It’s not hard to see why they are so popular. Guinea pigs are really adorable. They are also easy to care for. In reality, providing a nice cage for your pet is sometimes only half the battle. In this post, a local veterinarian in Mt. Airy, MD answers some common questions about Guinea pig cage setup.
What Kind Of Bedding Do I Require?
Bedding is something you definitely need to get right. Dirty bedding not only stinks, but it also contains bacteria, increasing the risk of your pet acquiring respiratory and fungal diseases. You want something that absorbs, dries rapidly, and removes odors. Obviously, it should not be poisonous.
Avoid using wooden or paper bedding. Pine and cedar products are especially dangerous since their oils can cause respiratory problems in small animals. Fleece is a good choice. Beach towels are great for this. They’re easily washable and simple to replace. They are also available in a range of colorful colors, making the cage more fun and enticing to your pet. You might also add a pad below to soften it. Use a pet-specific product, though, to guarantee that it is not toxic or otherwise harmful.
You’ll also need to keep the cage clean. We recommend spot cleaning on a daily basis. This includes clearing trash and uneaten food, as well as replacing soiled hay and padding. Once a week, you should perform a more complete cleaning that involves washing toys and accessories, replenishing bedding and litter, and wiping down the cage. Ask your veterinarian for further information.
How Can I Make My Pet Cavies’ Cage More Fun?
Our animal friends need entertainment, too! Just like us, they can become melancholy and unhappy if they are not stimulated and enriched. Boredom will undoubtedly have an effect on your pet’s health and well-being. You’ll want to add some fun toys and accessories.
Chew toys are essential. These tiny furballs have to chew a lot to keep their teeth healthy! However, you can make many of these on your own. Cozies and exercise wheels will also interest and entertain your pint-sized pet. Just get solid wheels, though: the wire ones are dangerous. Ask your vet for more information.
Moving your pet’s possessions around on a regular basis might also keep things interesting for him. Everyone needs a bit of a change every now and again.
Where Should I Put a Guinea Pig Cage?
The classic adage, “location, location, location,” certainly applies here. Finding the right position is essential for your pet’s comfort, health, and happiness!
There are various do’s and don’ts to remember. You don’t want to set your pet’s cage in direct sunlight, a drafty environment, or anywhere too loud or busy. Guinea pigs are tiny and easily startled! Naturally, your pets will be dissatisfied if they are too alone. A quiet setting is usually a good bet.
It is also important to consider the temperature. Guinea pigs do not tolerate extreme temperatures. They generally prefer temperatures ranging from 65 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.
Finally, think about the other pets you have. If you have a dog or a cat, you might want to set the cage on a sturdy table or something similar to keep Fido and Fluffy away. Understandably, a tiny ball of fur may be quite alarmed to see your canine or feline companion staring in at them!
For more information on caring for your Guinea pigs, consult your Mt. Airy, MD veterinarian. We are happy to assist!
What Is The Best Cage Size For A Guinea Pig?
This is ultimately determined by the number of guinea pigs you want. The Humane Society recommends that each Guinea pig should be given at least 7.5 square feet of space. However, you should never have just one Guinea pig; 10.5 square feet is a far better minimum for two. Three adorable little furballs would require at least 13 square feet of space. The minimum required area for four is 16 square feet.
Do Guinea Pigs Prefer Multi-Level Cages?
You can buy a multi-level cage for your cavies, but make sure it doesn’t let them escape. It should include a covered ramp that is safe and simple for your pet to ascend, and there should be no gaps or openings on the upper levels your pets could fall. This is crucial since these guys have poor vision and are prone to tumbling off steps and ramps.
Can Guinea Pigs Run Around the House?
Living in a cage can be boring for a busy little furball. Your cute pals will both enjoy and benefit from spending time outside their cage every day. This is also a great time to play and bond with your pets.
Just make sure you petproof everything before letting your cavies out to play. Guinea pigs’ teeth are open-rooted, and they will nibble on pretty much anything and everything within reach. This can be problematic, as many common household goods are toxic to these creatures. Some items are harmful to pets, while others can strangle them or cause internal damage.
Here are a few items to address:
Unsafe Plants: Many household plants are toxic to pets. This list includes the following items:
- Lily
- Daffodil
- Oleander
- Tulips
- Amaryllis
- Sago palms
- Aloe
- Cyclamen
- Rhododendron
- Begonia
- Chrysanthemum
- Lily of the Valley
- Autumn crocuses
- Azalea Ivy
- Holly
- Hyacinth
- Castor bean
- Marijuana
- Iris
For more information on safe and harmful plants, consult your Mt. Airy, MD vet.
Dangerous Spaces: You should also plug any gaps behind and beneath furniture and cabinets. Stairs, stoves, pools, and places under chairs are all possible hazards. In addition, ensure that all vents are closed and that doors, screens, and windows are secure and escape-proof.
Small/Sharp Objects: Pens, safety pins, paper clips, small toys, rubber bands, jewelry, and fishing tackle are all examples of small/sharp things.
Ropes And Cords: Small animals are easily caught in rope, thread, or cord. Don’t overlook things like drape cords and blanket or pillow tassels.
Chemicals: Keep any possibly toxic items away from those charming little paws. Some examples of these items include cleaning products, medications, drain openers, paint, pesticides, and automated equipment.
What Types of Cages Are Unsuitable for Guinea Pigs?
Although you may purchase a variety of cages in stores and online, this does not mean that they are all safe or suitable for your pet. We advise against using plastic storage containers. Glass cages are also not an excellent solution. Anything with mesh or wire flooring is likewise risky. These types of flooring do not retain the substrate in place and can result in catastrophic injury. For more information, contact your Rapid City, South Dakota veterinarian.
Schedule An Appointment With Our Mt. Airy, Md Pet Clinic.
Have any questions regarding caring for Guinea pigs? Contact us today, your Mt. Airy, MD pet hospital! Our commitment to high-quality veterinary care extends to even the smallest of patients.
