Husbandry And Housing
Good husbandry is essential with guinea pigs, with many diseases being preventable with adequate care. Guinea pigs do well in a large hutch or cage that is either inside or undercover and free from direct sunlight, rain and windy drafts. It is recommended that a pair of guinea pigs is be provided with a minimum floor space of approximately 1 sq meter; however, the more room, the better.
We recommend the joint use of towels or furniture removal pads with fleece ontop for indoor guinea pig housing. The bedding should be changed regularly to avoid the cage becoming too dirty or smelly. If housed indoors we highly recommend c&c caging.
Info on how to use fleece bedding for guinea pigs.
Ammonia is produced in guinea pig urine, and guinea pigs are sensitive to high ammonia levels in the air. Keeping the hutch clean and tidy helps keep ammonia levels down and avoid potential problems. Waste from the hutch makes for great mulch and compost for your garden.
Cage Accessories and Enrichment
Guinea pigs are curious and playful animals that benefit greatly from a stimulating environment. Providing enrichment not only keeps them entertained but also supports their physical and mental well-being.
One of the best ways to enrich your guinea pig’s life is by offering plenty of hidey holes and cozy spaces. Items such as hideaway castles, plastic tunnels or pipes, cardboard houses, and hay nests give your guinea pigs places to explore, hide, and feel safe. These hiding spots help reduce stress and encourage natural behaviors like burrowing and nesting.
In addition to hideouts, toys are an excellent source of enrichment. Simple items like chew toys, wooden blocks, or even crumpled paper can provide hours of entertainment. Rotating toys and rearranging their environment from time to time can keep things interesting and prevent boredom.
You can also encourage foraging by hiding treats or fresh vegetables in hay or inside tunnels. This stimulates their natural instincts and keeps them active. Remember to always choose safe, non-toxic materials for any enrichment items you provide.
By offering a variety of enrichment options, you’ll help ensure your guinea pigs stay happy, healthy, and engaged every day.
