Cages
It is very important to select a cage set up that best fits you and your guinea pig. Just because a box is labeled to be for guinea pigs, doesn't mean it will be healthy for your pet.
Contrary to popular belief, guinea pigs need a larger cage than the average commercial habitat. They need horizontal room to run, popcorn, and zoom.
These cages (and similar styles) you want to avoid under any circumstance:
Contrary to popular belief, guinea pigs need a larger cage than the average commercial habitat. They need horizontal room to run, popcorn, and zoom.
These cages (and similar styles) you want to avoid under any circumstance:
Too small
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Too small even with the advantage of a second level loft.
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Too small even with the advantage of a second level loft.
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Too vertical - this could damage their back.
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Here is a chart to help you find a cage with adequate space for your piggies: |
"Grids" refer to a 14" x 14" C&C cage grid.
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So which cage do I need?
We recommend either the XL Midwest Cage or a Cubes and Coroplast (C&C) Cage.
A single Midwest Cage. Includes a small ramp to a separate area in the cage.
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This is a Midwest Cage.
It provides enough room for two guinea pigs to live with the advantage of the optional separate "room" for eating or sleeping. However, it doesn't provide enough space for them to be in there 24/7. They will need floor time everyday: a time to free roam in a room or large area. It has a removable top to keep out any other animals you may have like cats or dogs. Personally, I don't use the top. Guinea pigs usually can't jump high enough to get out and I like to be able to reach in and interact with them frequently. It helps to tame them. This cage is movable and will sit on a table or the floor easily. The green bottom is useful for those that want to use loose bedding due to the raised sides. It is waterproof and easy to clean with vinegar (our choice cleaner). A downside to this cage is it is hard to keep the corners and inside edges clean. The bottom of the cage is soft, not solid, so it needs to be supported by something if you want it off the floor. |
If you attach two Midwest Cages together (like in photo below) to make one big cage, it provides optimal space for your happy piggies.
The C&C Cage
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A C&C cage is made of metal grids (storage cubes) and coroplast (corrugated plastic used to make signs).
This is my personal favorite type of cage. I'm a very crafty person and love to make things so building this was a fun activity for me. I bought my grids (storage cubes) from kmart.com (although you can find them many places online) and the coroplast from Home Depot or Lowes. You will also need zip ties and box tape to secure the cage. There are many places to purchase these kits online, but you can make them yourself for a much smaller price. If you do make it yourself, you can customize the size and shape of the cage to fit your home. Just remember that guinea pigs need more horizontal room than vertical. Click here for a great video on how to make your own cage. 
If you purchase your own grids, keep in mind the size of the holes. Guinea pigs can get their head stuck in a grid hole that is too big - especially if the piggie is young.
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This is the most popular layout for a C&C cage. These can be ordered in kits.
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