Although there arecare guidelinesBefore you get your first guinea pig, learn that when it comes to their habitat, it's simple: the bigger, the better.
"Size is one of the most important things to consider when choosing a guinea pig cage," he saysKatharina Allis, author ofDixon reaches the Rainbow Bridgeand author forGuinea Pig Magazine.
The Humane Society of the United States recommends at least 7.5 square feet of uninterrupted space for one, while a couple needs at least 10.5 square feet. Most cages sold today do not meet these criteria. Accessibility and materials are also important to consider.
Our favorite guinea pig cage is thisMidwest Animal Shelters Guinea Habitat Plus, which includes a washable canvas floor and divider. It also folds flat for storage and travel. But there are some other guinea pig cages that we love too.
Here are the best cages for guinea pigs.
Overall best
Midwest Animal Shelters Guinea Habitat Plus
4.8
what we like
easy to clean
Divider that separates rooms
Folds flat for pain-free travel and storage
what we don't like
The sides of the cage wobble a bit at times
With almost eight square meters of space, this premium guinea pig cage requires no tools to assemble. The versatile wire mesh folds down and is removable, giving you freedom of access when you need it and security when you don't need it. Two side doors make changing the water and feed easier.
The cage also comes with a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) lined canvas floor that is soft, leak-proof and washable. It's important to avoid wire-bottom cages with gaps that can catch or break small feet and legs. Additional bases are sold separately.
The Plus version includes a partition with a door that acts as a ramp. This important feature keeps the cage cleaner by separating play and sleeping areas. Compared to other cages, the MidWest Homes for Pets Guinea Habitat is lightweight and affordable for the space it offers.
It's also easy to double your guinea pigs' space by buying two, as they can be linked together to provide extra space to play and live.
Price at time of publication: $65
Dimensions:47 x 24 x 14 inches |Weight:12.5 pounds |Materials:Wire mesh top, PVC canvas bottom
what we like
Large top and front vents
easy construction
A breeze to clean
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what we don't like
Some customers have reported quality control issues
This durable and affordable guinea pig cage requires no tools to assemble and includes a leak-proof water bottle, hay shelter, and a porch with access ramp and tip-resistant food bowl. The jumbo size has about 9 square feet of space for your pig to explore. The hay rack is mounted on the outside and leaves even more space inside to play.
Hidden space under the porch means you don't have to add hiding spots, leaving more room for them. Customers like the deep floor because the height keeps litter and droppings inside the cagebetter Hygieneand easier cleaning.
Dimensions:48.6 x 26.6 x 20.6 in |Weight:18.7 pounds |Materials:Iron wire upper part, polypropylene plastic lower part
best wood
Lovupet indoor wooden guinea pig cage
what we like
less plastic
More aesthetically pleasing than most other cages
what we don't like
Considered "waterproof" but rain can splash onto the front of the mesh
Wood walls can absorb more odors than wire and plastic.
This wooden cage offers your guinea pig around 8 feet of space, including a separate sleeping and hiding area. The asphalt roof opens into two sections, with locking arms for easy cleaning and access. The cage also has three doors: a wire front door, a solid wood door for access to the bunk room, and a third at the end of the unit. It is also equipped with a practical feeding bowl at the front so that you can change food and water from the front. The sloping lid ensures that no water leaks out.
Two base pans made of acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic are easy to remove and clean. Six legs elevate this cage off the ground or floor and provide good airflow for temperature and odor regulation.
Dimensions:52 x 24 x 21 inches |Weight:44 pounds |Materials:Fir wood, ABS plastic floor, asphalt roof, chain link doors
Best open at the top
Kaytee Pet Open Living Space 48"L X 24"W
what we like
buy
Easy assembly without tools
Top and liner sold separately
lots of space
what we don't like
Caro
In households without other animals and small children, it is possible to keep guinea pigs in a roofless habitat. An open top makes pet access, cleaning, and feeding easier for every cage on our list. The sturdy wire frame is and usesbuyLatches for added security. The ramps can be folded down. The durable, waterproof liner uses a quick clip system for hassle-free removal and cleaning.
Your guinea pigs will appreciate the 12.5 square meters of movement space. You'll appreciate the added security of the high sides and the ability to connect more compatible open living habitats for even more scope. If you later decide that you really need a top, Kaytee offers an optional top, sold separately, as well as additional pads.
Dimensions:60 x 30 x 19 inches |Weight:12 pounds |Materials:Wire frame, waterproof lining
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what we like
well built
Easy assembly without tools
well ventilated
what we don't like
poorly designed water bottle
A safe den or den is where a guinea pig feels most comfortable. The hinged wire cover runs the full length of the cage, giving you ample access beyond the front side door. A durable tub with a plastic bottom and high sides keeps litter and droppings in the cage and is easy to clean.
Includes balcony with access ramp. The spike-proof feeding bowl is locked so your piglet can eat without messing anything up. Below the porch is an enclosed den where your pig loves to sleep and hide. Each cage comes with a non-spill water bottle and a hay shelter fitted outside the habitat. This facilitates the daily change and leaves more free space within the habitat. With 7.8 square meters of space, the extra large cage is the minimum size for a pair of guinea pigs.
Dimensions:46.9 x 24 x 22.8 inches |Weight:19 pounds |Materials:Wire frame, plastic bottom
Best Rollen
Aivituvin for rabbits and guinea pigs for indoor and outdoor use
what we like
Beautiful painted wooden construction
functional design
eco ink
what we don't like
Spruce is a soft wood, so care must be taken during assembly.
Guinea pigs sometimes chew on wooden fences
This attractive cage has a large first floor designed as a play area surrounded by sturdy wire mesh. A non-slip ramp leads to a second floor area perfect for sleeping and hiding. In total, that's 9.6 square meters of space to roam. Three large front doors and a convertible top provide ample access. Because the wire mesh openings are only 1.3 x 1.3 cm, your piglets are protected from predators, including the house cat, while still enjoying good air circulation.
But perhaps the best feature of the Aivituvin guinea pig coop is its three leak-proof, pull-out bowls that make cleaning a breeze. The cage also has four casters so you can rotate the cage to different locations.
The only downside to the Aivituvin is its soft wooden construction, which your guinea pig might be tempted to gnaw on. While chewing on wood is safe for your pigs, it can make your coop look a little old over time. The best solution is to pay more attention to your guinea pigs or guinea pigs as one of the main reasons they chew on the pen is because of boredom. You can also apply a bitter apple spray or something similar to the wood to keep them from gnawing.
Price at time of publication: $140
Dimensions:61.2 x 22.6 x 33.5 in |Weight:41 pounds |Materials:Fir wood, galvanized wire mesh, plastic floor pans, waterproof asphalt roof
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Best for two
Krolik 160 XXL rabbit cage with wire extension
what we like
Holds up to three guinea pigs
1 year manufacturer guarantee
No tools required for assembly
what we don't like
Difficult to assemble for some
Plastic clips fail after prolonged use
Guinea pigs prefer to live in pairs or groups. Designed with wide front doors for quick cleaning and access, this cage features a 5.5 inch deep heavy duty plastic floor that detaches for hassle-free cleaning. With over 10.5 feet of space your guineas will have room to play.
It comes with two large water bottles, two hay feeders, a food bowl and a raised feeding and drinking area. A wire divider is also included to create separate spaces for cleaning and fun as needed. Read more in the FAQs on deciding appropriate gender compatibility in couples and groups.
Price at time of publication: $165
Dimensions:63.8 x 23.6 x 16.7 inches |Weight:24 pounds |Materials:steel wire, plastic bottom
what we like
The collapsible terrace almost doubles the available play area
detachable wheels
Includes food bowl, water bottle and hay feed
Specially developed for guinea pigs
what we don't like
Only available from Petsmart
Avoid pinching your fingers during assembly
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When fully expanded, this guinea pig habitat offers the most space of any cage on our list at 17.2 square feet. That's because it comes with a spacious rectangular cage habitat and a removable collapsible play area. The living space includes a shelf. Guinea pigs generally prefer to eat slightly elevated on a platform and then hide underneath and sleep. Two low ramps - one grounded and one fleece lined - are included to allow your guinea pigs to safely get on and off the platform and play area.
The wire cover opens fully for wide access, while the sliding front door allows free movement between the living space and playpen, keeping them secure when the playpen is not in use. A quick-to-clean plastic slider in the bottom drawer makes changing bed linen easier.
Price at time of publication: $160
Dimensions:Habitat 50.7 x 27.3 x 24.2 in, Wild Garden 50.7 x 23.7 x 24.2 in |Weight:Not Listed |Materials:Stainless steel wire and cage, plastic bottom
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final verdict
we like themMidwest Animal Shelters Guinea Habitat Plusbecause it's spacious, affordable, easy to clean, and affordable. When your piglets come out, you'll appreciate itAivituvin for rabbits and guinea pigs for indoor and outdoor use, a beautiful wooden cage with wheels that is very easy to clean.
What to look for in guinea pig cages?
Grid size and bars or spacing
"Here are some questions to ask yourself when you're ready to choose a cage that's right for your situation," he begins.Katharina Allis, author ofDixon reaches the Rainbow Bridgeand author forGuinea Pig Magazine. "Does it meet, at least on one level, the minimum size requirements for the number of guinea pigs you intend to keep?"
The Humane Society of the United States recommends at least 7.5 square feet of uninterrupted space for a couple and at least 10.5 square feet for a couple.
"Is the spacing between the bars or holes in the bars small enough that a young guinea pig can't get stuck trying to squeeze through?" asks Allis. “Avoid cages with large gaps between bars. The curious guinea pig can easily stick its nose (and later its head) into larger openings and get stuck. You will fight your way out and get hurt.”
Bars an inch or less apart are small enough to prevent young guinea pigs from being trapped or escaping. Grates larger than approximately 1.5 inches (9 x 9) are considered unsafe as they can result in your head or limbs getting caught in holes in larger grates.
“Also avoid cages with wire or bars at the base. This will damage the guinea pig's feet,” adds Alliss.
accessibility and stability
"Do you have easy access to all areas to clean the cage and change the bedding?" asks Allis. Look for cages that open at the top and sides for comfort and ease.
If you move your cage regularly, you should consider the cage's sturdiness and structure. Choose one with wheels if you find yourself pushing it out a lot on nice days. Those with flexible frames generally work best when placed in a corner or against a wall. Consider whether the parts will retain their structure when lifted. No style is the best. Choose the one that best suits your situation for location and portability.
Materials & Accessories
Guinea pig cages are made from a variety of materials, including galvanized or powder-coated wire rods, mesh and frames, plastic, and wood (often spruce).
"Is the cage easy to keep clean and free of dirt, mold and odors?" asks Allis. “For example, plastic is non-absorbent, easy to clean and disinfect; The wood needs to be treated or covered with something to make it waterproof. Otherwise, it will absorb urine and quickly stain and begin to smell and gradually rot.
“Avoid small cages where the minimum space required is divided into multiple tiers,” adds Alliss. Guinea pigs don't like great heights, so they probably won't climb to the top tiers of tall, multi-tiered cages. Two-story cages should have a ramp that is not too steep. Instinctively, guinea pigs generally prefer to sleep below and feed slightly higher.
In the wild, guinea pigs are prey to raptors, wolves, coyotes and snakes, so it's their nature to hide for much of the day. Consider the accessories that come with your cage. Is there a built in den or covered area for sleeping and hiding?
Feeders should have a wide bottom and low sides to prevent tipping. The water bottle is important. If it leaks, your pigs could become dehydrated and die. Make sure it's big enough for the number of guineas you have. Each piglet drinks between 50 and 300 ml of water per day.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big should guinea pig cages be?
"Ideally, a guinea pig cage should be as large as possible - most guinea pigs love to run (especially when they are young). The more space they have to run and explore, the better," Alliss told The Spruce Pets.
"There are recommended minimum cage sizes, but readers should note that these are the minimum cage requirements, and it's always best to consider a cage the next size up (or even larger if you have space)," Alliss explains . “The following sizes are good for female guinea pigs or a mixed herd of a castrated boar plus one or more sows. But if you plan on keeping 2 boars they ideally need twice as much space to have their own space, so 2 boars would really need a floor space suitable for 4 guinea pigs.”
Recommended cage sizes are as follows:
- 1 or 2 guinea pigs - 0.7m to 7.5ft, 2 x 3 boxes
- 3 guinea pigs - 0.98m to 10.5ft, 2x4 boxes
- 4 guinea pigs - 4ft to 13ft, 2x5 boxes
- 5 guinea pigs - 1.49m to 16ft, 2x6 or 3x4 boxes
- Each additional guinea pig will require an additional - 0.28m, 3ft, 1 additional trellis in length
"Keep that in mind," Alliss adds. “While the minimum cage sizes seem fairly generous when completely empty, once you start adding hiding places (at least one for each guinea pig), food bowls, haystacks, and other cute cage accessories the use of pigs becomes, the available space for the guinea pig increases significantly reduced.”
What is the best bedding for guinea pig cages?
“There are many different options for guinea pig bedding. They all have pros and cons, and it's really an individual personal preference when choosing your bedding,” says Alliss. "
Consider these things when choosing bedding:
Kompfort:Bedding should be comfortable for walking and lying down. Anything rough or chafing will make your feet sore and potentially lead to a nasty infection.
Location:The choice of bedding will depend on whether your guinea pigs will be kept indoors or outdoors (this is common in the UK where the climate is temperate).
Cloth bedding such as fleece, vetbed etc. They are not recommended for use in cages as they get damp quickly and do not provide much insulation and warmth on the coldest days.
Absorption:Bedding needs to be very absorbent so that any urine is absorbed immediately and doesn't hang around and irritate the skin on your feet or stomach.
Non-Toxic:Litter must be non-toxic and not cause adverse effects when in contact with guinea pigs; and if it is an artificial product, your guinea pigs should not be tempted to nibble or chew on it.
Dust free:Dust-free bedding reduces respiratory problems and allergies.
Cost:Consider not only the acquisition costs, but also the running costs that are incurred, for example, for washing reusable bed linen.
Environmental Impact: All types of bedding have an impact on the environment.
Do guinea pig cages need lids?
"It's a good idea to have a lid on the cage for a number of reasons," says Alliss. “Some guinea pigs can jump and others can climb, so using a spinning top can help you avoid nasty accidents with guinea pigs falling out of the cage (especially when the cage is lifted off the ground). A cover also provides protection from foreign objects falling into the cage and injuring your guinea pig, or your guinea pig chewing or eating something it shouldn't. Check theguinea pig forumfor lots of useful information about living and bedding.”
Why not trust Spruce?
This piece was researched and written byLorena Wildewho has been a dedicated animal lover for 35 years. In researching each product and brand, Lorraine evaluated each product's type and quality, customer reviews, the company's research and development, and its business ethics. Lorraine also has a master's degree in environmental science. She firmly believes that consumers can make healthy, informed and environmentally responsible choices to protect their pets and our planet.
Katharina Allishas over 15 years of experience rearing and raising guinea pigs and is part of the team of experts who write to us regularlyGuinea Pig Magazine. She is the admin of an active Facebook group for guinea pigs (the guinea pig's room), and in 2021 he wrote and published a book –Dixon reaches the Rainbow Bridge, all proceeds will be donated to two guinea pig rescues in the UK (Gertie's Lonely Guinea Pig Rescue and Oakland's Rodent Rescue).
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