Setting up and maintaining a safe and comfortable living space for guinea pigs is essential for their overall health and well-being, and here are a few things to consider when setting up and maintaining your guinea pig’s living space:
Size: Guinea pigs need plenty of room to move around, so choose a cage that is at least 7.5 square feet (about 0.7 m2) per guinea pig. The cage should be tall enough for your guinea pig to stand up on their hind legs without hitting their head.
Construction: Choose a cage that is made of durable materials and has a solid bottom to prevent your guinea pig from escaping. The cage should also have a secure locking mechanism to keep your guinea pig safe.
Bedding: Choose a bedding material that is soft and comfortable for your guinea pig to lay on, such as aspen shavings, paper-based beddings, or recycled paper beddings. Avoid using cedar or pine shavings as the fumes may cause respiratory problems, or properly ventilate and dry them before usage.
Accessories: Your guinea pig will need a place to hide and sleep, so include a hideaway such as a cardboard box or a small animal house. A water bottle and a food bowl are also essential. guinea pigs also need to have access to hay and fresh vegetables and fruits, so make sure to have a hay feeder and a food bowl.
Exercise: Your guinea pig will appreciate the opportunity to exercise and play, so choose a cage that includes a play area or an exercise area. You can also provide them with tunnels, ramps, and platforms to climb on.
Lighting: Your guinea pig will need a source of natural light, so choose a cage that is placed near a window or has a skylight. This will provide your guinea pig with a source of natural light and also prevent them from becoming depressed.
Cleaning: Clean the cage and accessories regularly to keep your guinea pig’s living space clean and hygienic.
Temperature: Guinea pigs need to be kept in a comfortable temperature range, between 60-70°F (16 – 22°C). Make sure their living space is not too hot or too cold and avoid drafts.
Location: Choose a location for the cage that is out of direct sunlight and drafts, and away from loud noises. This will provide your guinea pig with a peaceful and comfortable environment.
Socialization: Guinea pigs are social animals and need companionship. If you have more than one guinea pig, make sure to choose a cage that is big enough for them to live comfortably and have a play area.
Safety: Check the cage and accessories regularly for any potential hazards such as sharp edges or small openings that your guinea pig could get stuck in. Also, make sure that the cage is escape-proof and has a secure locking mechanism.
By following these tips, you can set up and maintain a safe and comfortable living space for your guinea pig, and remember that guinea pigs need plenty of space to move around, so choose a cage that is big enough for them to live comfortably; provide them with a variety of toys and food options, and keep their living space clean and hygienic.