Guinea Pig Housing
Guinea Pigs Need Space! There are a variety of cages available in pet stores that are completely unsuitable and entirely too small. These cages are from a different era when we didn't know any better. We have been caring for thousands of guinea pigs over many years, and along with our fellow rescues have set the modern standard for guinea pig cage sizes. All reputable rescues follow these guidelines for cage space of their adopted animals.
Q: If these types of cages are bad then why do the pet stores sell them?
A: Great question! Pet stores make money selling guinea pig supplies, lots of money in fact. They are afraid that if people are properly educated on guinea pig cage sizes that some may realize they do not have the means or space to do right by the animal. If fewer people were to take guinea pigs as pets the pet stores will be making less money. It is as simple as that!
Q: If these types of cages are bad then why do the pet stores sell them?
A: Great question! Pet stores make money selling guinea pig supplies, lots of money in fact. They are afraid that if people are properly educated on guinea pig cage sizes that some may realize they do not have the means or space to do right by the animal. If fewer people were to take guinea pigs as pets the pet stores will be making less money. It is as simple as that!
Examples of GREAT guinea pig cages - the C&C (Cubes and Coroplast cage)
From left to right 2 x 3 / 2 x 4 / 2 x 5
With the green bottom - The Midwest Guinea Habitat
These types of cages are for sale at the rescue!
Great examples of bad guinea pig cages:
Note about the Living World Deluxe Habitat vs Midwest Cage...
In theory, both cages have the same measurements. However, if you look closely you will see that the plastic bottom part of the cage slants inwards on all 4 sides, thus taking away crucial living space.
They say you get 47" x 23", but in reality that number becomes much shorter as they “steal” 2 or more inches from every side. So it is likely that 12” in overall actual bottom living space is removed. The Midwest is the minimum cage requirement. It is actually super easy to clean and move. You can in fact put that whole bottom canvas in the washing machine.
In theory, both cages have the same measurements. However, if you look closely you will see that the plastic bottom part of the cage slants inwards on all 4 sides, thus taking away crucial living space.
They say you get 47" x 23", but in reality that number becomes much shorter as they “steal” 2 or more inches from every side. So it is likely that 12” in overall actual bottom living space is removed. The Midwest is the minimum cage requirement. It is actually super easy to clean and move. You can in fact put that whole bottom canvas in the washing machine.
