Setting Up Your Guinea Pig’s Cage

Have you recently decided to adopt a Guinea pig? Guinea pigs, or cavies, make absolutely wonderful pets. These adorable little furballs are generally quite tame and friendly, very fun to play with, and super cute to watch. Making sure your little buddy has a comfortable habitat will play a huge role in your pet’s overall health and happiness. Read on as your Pickerington vet offers some great tips for setting up your cavy’s cage.

Choosing The Cage

Getting your pet set up comfortably starts with picking the right cage. For one cavy, plan on at least 7.5 square feet of space. Choose a cage with solid flooring. Your furball will be really happy if you pick one that is large enough to provide two stories!

Placement

You’ll want to place your Guinea pig’s cage on a stable surface, in an area that does not get any direct sunlight. Don’t put your cavy in a spot which is very drafty, or too close to a heating source. Guinea pigs are very curious and sociable, so your little furball will be happiest in an area where he can watch and listen to his human family.

Substrate

Once you’ve got the cage set up, you’ll need to add a suitable substrate. There are many options to choose from. Recycled paper products are a great option. Avoid pine or cedar substrates, as these are dangerous to small animals.

Furnishings

Your little pet will need a hidey-hole to retreat when he wants some solitude. You’ll find lots of adorable choices in pet stores, but you can also make your own out of a box, a large plant pot, or even a little kitty tent. Your furball will also need a litter box.

Dishes

Ceramic bowls are a good choice for food dishes. Your little pal will also need a water supply. We recommend getting a water bottle that attaches to the side of the cage.

Toys

Cavies are very curious and playful! Provide your furball with lots of toys, both for chewing and entertainment. Hanging toys, wooden toys, chew sticks, and foraging toys are all suitable options. You can also repurpose many common household items, such as the cardboard tubes from toilet paper rolls. Do you have any questions about caring for a cavy? Contact us any time! As your local Pickerington vet clinic, we are here to help!