Cage Location
One of the first decisions you will need to make before you bring your new guinea pig home is - do you want him or her to live inside or outside? While the outdoor option may seem more convenient consider a these factors first - if your pet lives outdoors, the two of you may not form as tight of a bond unless you make the extra effort. A lot of what people find enjoyable about guinea pig ownership is simply the shared companionship - sitting together, watching your furry friend play with toys in his cage, etc. Outdoor pets also do not have as long of a lifespan due to increased exposure to extreme weather conditions and neighborhood predators. Finally, if you are not regularly monitoring your furry friend, days can go by before you realize he or she is ill. This could be potentially life threatening if your guinea pig has contracted a rapidly developing illness. For the reasons above, we recommend keeping your pet indoors.
The greatest consideration when locating your guinea pig cage in your home is selecting a spot that will remain at an ideal temperature for your pet. Avoid close proximity to direct sunlight and other heating elements such as radiators and stoves. Extreme cold is also deadly so avoid cage placement near doors, windows, or directly on the floor as this is likely to be drafty. Avoid areas that are dark and damp - this includes basements and garages (especially because of car exhaust fumes.) Finally, avoid any location that is very noisy as guinea pigs have very sharp hearing. This would include televisions and stereo systems. The ideal spot will be somewhere in the center of your home where he or she can watch household activity. Any area where people are interacting should be fine - just not an area that is so busy that your new companion becomes stressed due to a lack of rest.
Cage Basics
Look for cages with removable bottom trays and sturdy wire. Sturdy wire will not be vulnerable to gnawing and will provide excellent access to ventilation and light. A removable bottom tray will make the task of cleaning much easier. Make sure the cage floor is either hard plastic or some kind of non-rusting metal. If your cage is all wire, you will need to add a wood floored area (any wood but toxic redwood.) Mesh and wire cage floors are going to be very uncomfortable and not entirely safe for your guinea pig as his leg can get caught in the gaps and the wire will make his feet sore. The cage you select should also be easy to take apart as you will need to clean it once per week. Make sure the cage comes with an opening on top so you can easily reach in without your guinea pig running out. A side door is also an excellent option for when you want to let your guinea pig out to play.
Many so-called experts recommend cages that are simply too small to ensure the maximum health and happiness of your guinea pig. The most common recommendation is that you find a cage big enough to accommodate your guinea pig, his food, water, nest box, and toys. The cage should be large enough that your pet cannot reach the top. Unfortunately this information is too vague and can result in an owner buying a cage that is too small. Other "experts" recommend 2.5 square feet per guinea pig. This is also inadequate. We strongly recommend 7.5 square feet for one, or 10.5 square feet for two. Remember, the more exercise and space your guinea pig has the healthier he will be. This will ultimately save you the stress and financial burden of a sick guinea pig later on.
Amanda is a lifelong guinea pig lover. For more great tips on bringing guinea pigs home, visit http://guineapigresource.com/bringing-your-guinea-pig-home/
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