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9 Safe and Sturdy Guinea Pig Cage Reviews – Cuddle Your Cavy in 2024

Actually in December 2024
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LAST UPDATE March 31, 2020
READING TIME loader Minutes
Home & Garden
9 Safe and Sturdy Guinea Pig Cage Reviews – Cuddle Your Cavy in 2024

Find the best guinea pig cage for your guinea pig companion. Learn about choosing the right one. ⚠️ CAUTION: CUTE ANIMAL VIDEOS INSIDE. ?

Best of the best Living World Deluxe Habitat Living World Deluxe Habitat
5/5
Show Me
PROS

Great value, especially on XL

Convenient design

Hinging lid and deep plastic bottom

CONS

Steep ramp

Poor quality water bottle

Most Buying AmazonBasics Pet Habitat AmazonBasics Pet Habitat
4.5/5
Show Me
PROS

Great value

Double-door top and side openings

Easy assembly

CONS

Steep, slippery ramp

Best for the money Ferplast Pig Cage Ferplast Pig Cage
3/5
Show Me
PROS

Good price

Portable

Easy to open and clean

CONS

Plastic platform/hideaway house poses dangers,

Mediocre water bottle

Avatar Writer Kathy
How We Decided
  • 31Products
    Tested
  • 53Hours
    Spent
  • 4Experts
    Interviewed
  • 11Consumers
    Consulted
RUNNERS UP Also good products

MidWest Homes for Pets Critter Nation Double Unit with Stand

4.5/5

Fun with varied levels but heavy.

pros
  • Fun for guinea pigs

  • Variety of places promotes exercise and separation of areas

  • Solid and sturdy

cons
  • Heavy

  • May not be suitable for guinea pigs who don’t like to climb

You & Me Living the Dream Small Animal Habitat

4.5/5

Cozy, but not much room for exercise.

pros
  • Wire top separates from plastic base for easy cleaning

  • Cozy (if that’s what you want)

cons
  • Not much room for exercise and running

MidWest Homes for Pets Wabbit Deluxe Rabbit Home Kit

4/5

Full-width side door but steep steps.

pros
  • Good for an apartment or small house

  • Full-width side door provides much accessibility

cons
  • Stairs are steep

  • Could be stronger

Prevue Hendryx Black Feisty Ferret Cage

3.5/5

Spacious and multi-leveled but has wire floors.

pros
  • Spacious

  • Multiple levels, platforms, and ramps

cons
  • Wire floors

  • No side walls to guard keep in bedding and debris

Petsfit Rabbit Hutch/Bunny Cage for Indoor Use

3/5

Good price and appearance, but no side walls to keep in bedding.

pros
  • Good price

  • Good looking

  • Guinea pigs love the private hutch and open area

cons
  • Pull-out tray sometimes jams with bedding

  • No sidewall/barrier to keep bedding from spilling out

Table of Contents

9 Safe and Sturdy Guinea Pig Cage Reviews in 2024

  1. Living World Deluxe Habitat
  2. AmazonBasics Pet Habitat
  3. Ferplast Pig Cage
  4. MidWest Homes Guinea Habitat Guinea Pig Cage and Accessories
  5. MidWest Homes for Pets Critter Nation Double Unit with Stand
  6. You & Me Living the Dream Small Animal Habitat
  7. MidWest Homes for Pets Wabbit Deluxe Rabbit Home Kit
  8. Prevue Hendryx Black Feisty Ferret Cage
  9. Petsfit Rabbit Hutch/Bunny Cage for Indoor Use
    Mingmei Liang
    EXPERT CONSULTANT

    He works in a large company as an interior designer. Art critic and professional in the field of design.

    Mingmei Liang

    The only guinea pig I ever took care of was my sixth-grade classroom’s cute guinea pig over winter vacation. I wish I knew back then as much as I know now about picking a cage that best suits a chosen guinea pig.

    What do Theodore Roosevelt, Queen Elizabeth I, Princess Diana, Prince William, Prince Harry, Blondie, Michael Jackson, Natalie Wood, and Dr. Doolittle all have in common? They owned guinea pigs as pets (and probably used the best guinea pig cage they could find).

    It’s true!

    Guinea pigs originated in South America, not Guinea. Also known as “cavies” (singular “cavy”) from the species name Cavia Porcellus.

    They’re rodents, not pigs!

    If you’re planning to adopt one (or two–they’re social animals that love companionship), you’ll want the ultimate guinea pig cage to house your furry friend(s) too.

    Why?

    Guinea pigs need plenty of space to exercise, explore, play, and hide. Although low-cost and low-maintenance compared to other pets (e.g., dogs, cats, exotic fish, snakes, etc.), cavies require proper care and housing in order to thrive.

    It’s simple

    Read to learn how to choose a cage that’s safe and comfortable.

    Listen:

    Hopefully, your guinea pig(s)’s new home will elicit these happy purring sounds.

    Research You Can Trust

    After investigating more than 30 of the most popular guinea pig cages, we narrowed the list down to these top picks. We consulted industry leaders and guinea pig owners to choose the ten best cages for guinea pigs.

    Parents of guinea pigs don’t hold back about their real-life experiences (the good, the bad, and the ugly) with these models.

    We studied their feedback to write honest, relevant reviews to help you decide which model to purchase for your furry friend(s).

    Knowledge is power!

    We also double-checked each cage’s specifications on its manufacturer’s website to confirm accurate communication of information. You need to know exact details about each cage in order to choose what’s best for your guinea pig.

    Rest assured

    We don’t receive any products or kickback from manufacturers. Use these objective reviews to educate yourself before creating a cozy crib for your cute guinea pig.

    9 Safe and Sturdy Guinea Pig Cage Reviews in 2024

    Best of the best

    Living World Deluxe Habitat

    5/5

    With its upper wire frame and plastic bottom, the Living World Deluxe Habitat is a hybrid guinea pig cage model favored by many owners.

    Their furry friends agree! We found many reports of guinea pigs popcorning with joy in this cage.

    This model is “durable” and “sturdy”. One person says the cage works as well as it did the day it was brought home one year earlier.

    Our thoughts?

    First, the Living World Deluxe Habitat has a “great design” because its wire top clips off of the bottom plastic pan for easy cleaning. Owners love how this design allows for easy vacuuming and/or dumping of old bedding before cleaning and drying pan.

    The deep wall of the bottom pan prevents bedding and poop from being kicked out by excited guinea pigs.

    A few describe the plastic bottom as “flimsy”. Perhaps compared to other models, but our experts agreed it was still adequate.

    For times when you don’t need to take off the upper wire section, a top lid hinges open for quick, everyday access. The side door conveniently slides open but can be stiff.

    Size is important

    The majority of owners recommend the X-Large size option (over Standard and Large) of the Living World Deluxe Habitat to house two or more guinea pigs. Even those with just one guinea pig suggest choosing the Large or X-Large model over the Standard model.

    Some good, some bad

    The Living World Deluxe Habitat receives mixed reviews in terms of assembly.

    Some users believe it is “easy” to put together, under 30 minutes. Others, however, find the instructions “confusing”, difficult to assemble, and need up to an hour and a half.

    And more…

    The Living World Deluxe Habitat’s accessories also earn ambivalent feedback. Space under a balcony offers a secure, quiet hiding place, but its design doesn’t allow owners to see inside to check on their guinea pigs.

    The entire balcony/ramp piece is difficult to remove and replace for cleaning.

    Many people complain about the very steep ramp–three little stairs at a sharp incline inappropriate for guinea pigs. Some guinea pigs skip the stairs and hop up onto the balcony while some eventually learn to use the steps.

    The hay rack was a hit for some by providing 24/7 access to hay, but others find the hay rack messy.

    Despite a few positive reviews, the water bottle draws overwhelmingly negative reviews.

    We kept reading reports that the “cheap” bottle leaks and/or doesn’t fit its holder and falls down.

    Overall, people love the cage itself but dislike its accessories.

    Click here for a visual instruction manual. Click here for a video on unboxing and setting up the Living World Deluxe Habitat.

    Features

    • Standard cage dimensions: 30.7” long x 18.9” wide x 19.7” high (78 cm x 48 cm x 50 cm)
    • Large cage dimensions: 37.8” long x 22.4” wide x 22” high (96 cm x 57 cm x 56 cm)
    • X-Large cage dimensions: 46.9" long x 22.8" wide x 24 high" (119 cm x 58 cm x 61 H cm)
    • Includes balcony, ramp, hideaway, food dish, water bottle, and hay guard
    • Warranty and return information
    pros

      Great value, especially on XL

      Convenient design

      Hinging lid and deep plastic bottom

    cons

      Steep ramp

      Poor quality water bottle

    AmazonBasics Pet Habitat

    4.5/5

    The AmazonBasics Pet Habitat Jumbo size offers lots of room for two guinea pigs to run around, although its ramp cuts into overall floor area.

    The water bottle hangs outside to save space.

    Owners hear “happy noises” and observe popcorning when their guinea pigs first go into this cage.

    Most guinea pigs like perching on the balcony, at least the ones who jump onto it or climb the reportedly “steep” and “slippery” ramp.

    Mixed opinions

    While guinea pigs enjoy the balcony, a few owners state it sags and/or cracks under the animals’ weight.

    If your guinea pigs are on the “hefty” side, take note.

    Some people like and some dislike the hay rack and the advertised non-tip bowl actually does tip over.

    What people did agree on…

    Pet parents like the AmazonBasics Pet Habitat’s convenient design.

    It has a large double-door top opening as well as a double-door side opening for accessibility and daily spot cleaning.

    For deep cleaning, the plastic tray separates from the wire upper section for dumping out debris and scrubbing the bottom. The wire top requires a few minutes of fiddling to clip it out and back into the tray.

    Also, reviews unanimously concurred assembly is quick and easy, but it’s a bit wide and bulky for moving.

    Features

    • Standard cage dimensions: 29.9” long x 18.1” wide x 18.1” high
    • Large cage dimensions: 40.2” long x 21.3” wide x 19.7” high
    • Jumbo cage dimensions: 47.2” long x 23.6” wide x 20.5” high
    • Weight (standard): 11.1 pounds
    • Weight (large): 15.6 pounds
    • Weight (jumbo): 18.4 pounds
    • Includes balcony with ramp, food dish, water bottle, and hay guard
    • Limited one-year warranty
    pros

      Great value

      Double-door top and side openings

      Easy assembly

    cons

      Steep, slippery ramp

    Best for the money

    Ferplast Pig Cage

    3/5

    The Ferplast Pig Cage is large enough for a single guinea pig (preferably a small baby or an elderly one), but reviewers warn that it doesn’t provide much room for an active guinea pig, much less two.

    In fact, one owner chronicles his guinea pig’s experience with this cage: the pet only had enough room to run around in circles and eat.

    Once the owner moved the guinea pig to a larger cage, it became more active.

    Boredom, obesity and other health issues result from too-small cages.

    On the go

    Reviewers do praise the Ferplast Pig Cage for its portability. Easy to carry and transport around the house, this cage allows the guinea pig to move wherever people are.

    One pet parent reports that her guinea pig perches on the raised platform in order to watch family members.

    Easy enough for a kid

    One entire side opens up easily for cleaning. Several reviewers remark that their children as young as five years old can operate the door and clean the cage.

    A word of caution:

    While the included plastic structure (platform/hideaway) is convenient and fun, it creates a few dangers.

    One person notes the structure doesn’t sit flush against the cage walls, leaving gaps where guinea pigs’ feet and legs could get caught.

    Another found her guinea pig with its head stuck under the plastic “house” and dead.

    Also,

    Criticisms include the water bottle leaking and not fitting the holder, missing or broken parts, and damaged units upon delivery.

    Features

    • Cage dimensions: 30.3” long x 18.9” wide x 16.5” high
    • Weight: 8.46 pounds
    • Includes one 0.16 gal. water bottle, one hay feeder, one bowl, and one guinea pig house
    pros

      Good price

      Portable

      Easy to open and clean

    cons

      Plastic platform/hideaway house poses dangers,

      Mediocre water bottle

    MidWest Homes Guinea Habitat Guinea Pig Cage and Accessories

    4/5

    The Midwest Homes for Pets Guinea Habitat Plus and Accessories offer plenty of space and options for designing your guinea pig’s home.

    Although one cage is large enough for one to two guinea pigs, many reviewers suggest purchasing a second cage and connecting it to the first cage with one cage’s door/ramp to create lots of open space for two or more guinea pigs.

    We found many reports of guinea pigs popcorning in joy after entering this customizable cage.

    And

    The Midwest Homes for Pets Guinea Habitat Plus is made of wire side panels and a washable canvas bottom with 14” side walls.

    It has a washable and removable PVC-lined canvas mat. Although advertised as “leak-proof,” a few owners suggest adding a lining because the canvas leaks slightly where straps are sewn into the bottom.

    Also, many recommend substituting traditional loose bedding with a fleece pad over puppy pee mats or newspapers for convenience and economy.

    Then put bedding on top of the pad/mat in at least one section of the cage.

    Bottoms up!

    The canvas bottom is what distinguishes the Midwest Homes for Pets Guinea Habitat Plus from many other models.

    Easily folded up for moving, this soft-bottomed cage does have a few disadvantages.

    So what are?

    It’s thin and offers little cushioning or support, stains easily, and requires a large hard surface to sit on–like a big table or much floor space. If you do try to move the cage after assembly, it’s not unlikely it will collapse in on itself.

    Several owners report that their guinea pigs like to chew on (and sometimes through!) the canvas bottom and straps that hold the wire and canvas together.

    The Midwest Homes for Pets Guinea Habitat Plus is fairly straightforward in assembly and set-up.

    The wire side walls hook together either inside or outside of the canvas base. Some people find the overall structure sturdy while other describe the walls as “wobbly” and “bendable”.

    What is good?

    Many people agree upon are the Midwest Homes for Pets Guinea Habitat Plus’s accessories (sold separately) are handy.

    First, the divider panel–which has a hinged tailgate-style door–doubles as a ramp that can close off sections to keep guinea pigs in one part of the cage while the other part is being cleaned.

    Also, the divider is great for separating two guinea pigs who’re acclimating to (or fighting with) each other.

    A top panel is great for offering protection from other pets, although a few people warn that it’s “flimsy” and falls in if not properly clipped on. Finally, the canvas bottom replacement and the ramp cover are convenient to have.

    Take a look

    Watch this video tour and review of the Midwest Homes for Pets Guinea Habitat Plus and Accessories.

    Features

    • Cage dimensions (Habitat Plus): 47” long x 24” wide x 14” high
    • Wire mesh sides
    • Canvas bottom side height: 14”
    • One-year warranty for cage and parts
    pros

      Affordable

      Versatile in configuration

      Canvas bottom easy to clean

    cons

      Canvas bottom not sturdy

      Assembled cage not easy to move

    MidWest Homes for Pets Critter Nation Double Unit with Stand

    4.5/5

    The Midwest Homes for Pets Critter Nation Double Unit with Stand looks like a wonderland for guinea pigs, with two full levels, each with a ramp and a balcony.

    Be sure to click on “Two Story” for the model discussed in this review.

    Movin’ on up!

    This duplex is excellent for two guinea pigs because they can have a variety of places to play, sleep, eat, and just take a break from each other.

    Many owners report guinea pigs quickly acclimating to and enjoying running around each level as well as up and down the ramps.

    One reviewer does caution that since guinea pigs aren’t natural climbers, the Midwest Homes for Pets Critter Nation Double Unit with Stand with relatively steep ramps isn’t their safest option.

    Easy living…

    Most found this sturdy cage easy to assemble, although several people needed a few hours and pointed out that holes were not lined up well.

    It has removable plastic floor trays and four front doors (two on each level) that open an entire side of the cage for cleaning access. Positioned on four lockable caster wheels, the unit moves easily.

    As a bonus, the Midwest Homes for Pets Critter Nation Double Unit with Stand has storage space underneath the cage for bedding and food.

    A few complaints

    The main criticisms we found are that the shallow floor trays lack side panels to prevent bedding and dirt from spilling out.

    Several buyers state that their units arrived in damaged boxes, with dented and scratched pieces.

    For a demonstration on how to assemble this model, watch this video.

    Features

    • Bar spacing: ½”
    • Cage dimensions: 36” long x 24” wide x 63” high
    • Weight: 109 pounds
    • Sturdy square-tube frame and wire construction
    • Maneuverable stand with locking casters
    • Full-width double doors
    • Includes three angled ramps with Happy Feet Ramp cover
    • 1-year warranty for cage and parts
    pros

      Fun for guinea pigs

      Variety of places promotes exercise and separation of areas

      Solid and sturdy

    cons

      Heavy

      May not be suitable for guinea pigs who don’t like to climb

    You & Me Living the Dream Small Animal Habitat

    4.5/5

    Owners of one or two guinea pigs say that their animals like the You & Me Living the Dream Small Animal Habitat.

    However, it measures 40" long X 17.5" wide (less than five square feet) and we wonder if it actually is roomy enough.

    At least one person admits the cage doesn’t have a lot of running space, so her kids take the guinea pigs out often.

    Another pet parent took out the ramp to provide more room.

    Let’s get cozy

    At least this cage is good for bonding– a pair of our sister guinea pigs enjoy the closeness.

    A top hatch and a side door make accessing the animals and adding food simple.

    Easy to assemble, the You & Me Living the Dream Small Animal Habitat is constructed of a wire cage top that snaps onto a plastic base. This configuration makes it easy to clean and change bedding.

    A few reviewers wish that the sides of the plastic base are taller to prevent bedding from being “kicked out”.

    So

    The only complaints were that the ramp is a bit steep and slippery–but at least it’s textured and has curved up sides.

    For one consumer, a wheel arrived broken; for another, the plastic platform piece was missing. In any case, simply contact the manufacturer (Petco) and inquire about replacements and its 60-day return policy.

    Features

    • Cage dimensions: 40" long X 17.5" wide X 21" high
    • For indoors
    • Includes ramp and secon
    pros

      Wire top separates from plastic base for easy cleaning

      Cozy (if that’s what you want)

    cons

      Not much room for exercise and running

    MidWest Homes for Pets Wabbit Deluxe Rabbit Home Kit

    4/5

    Many guinea pig owners use the XL-size cage of the MidWest Homes for Pets Wabbit Deluxe Rabbit Home Kit to house their one, two, and sometimes three (but that might be pushing it) guinea pigs.

    A good size cage to have in an apartment or small house, this unit offers room for guinea pigs to run, a cave-like place to hide, and a second level to climb onto and eat.

    A little steep?

    In fact, some guinea pigs skip the nearly perpendicular and “useless” stairs and hop onto the platform.

    Reviewers like that a full-width side door opens up the one entire side.

    It makes accessing your pet, changing food, and cleaning the cage easy.

    Most people describe set-up as easy (although snapping in the sides can be “tricky”) while others find the directions poor. Some pieces didn’t fit well together for a few.

    Overall, this cage is well-liked but could be stronger. The wire seems “flimsy” to some.

    Nonetheless, you can expand the cage with an extension piece as well as a strong wood hutch.

    Features

    • Standard cage dimensions: 23.62” wide x 39.5” long x 19.75” high
    • Standard cage base: 5.5” deep
    • XL cage dimensions: 23.62” wide x 47.16” long x 19.68” high
    • XL cage base: 8.5” deep
    • XL cage weight: 16 pounds
    • Mesh spacing: 1”
    • Includes removable hay feeder, water bottle, and feeding bowl.
    • One-year warranty for cage and parts
    pros

      Good for an apartment or small house

      Full-width side door provides much accessibility

    cons

      Stairs are steep

      Could be stronger

    Prevue Hendryx Black Feisty Ferret Cage

    3.5/5

    Why should ferrets have all the fun? The Prevue Feisty Ferret Cage is great for feisty guinea pigs as well. It’s spacious with lots of room for toys, two levels (connected by a ramp and each with a ramp and a balcony), and even a hammock.

    Held closed with strong latches, two sets of doors (one for each level) open up entire sections for easy access and cleaning.

    People do wish each level has a side wall to keep pee and poo from splashing out.

    What’s not to love?

    Unfortunately, the floors of the Prevue Feisty Ferret Cage aren’t great for guinea pigs. They’re wire and of course, guinea pigs shouldn’t be walking on wire all the time.

    Also, you’ll have to pile lots of bedding on the bottom tray–which is located below the first level’s wire floor–in order to create a layer thick enough for burrowing.

    Owners suggest clever workarounds, like moving the bottom tray on top of the first-level wire floor and lining the second level with a thick blanket.  Then line both levels with bedding.

    Some good, some not

    We encountered contradictory opinions in two areas: assembly and metal.

    Some users found the Prevue Feisty Ferret Cage easy to assemble while others didn’t. Click here to see for yourself if the directions are clear.

    For more assistance, watch this video on how to assemble this unit.

    Heavy metal?

    Some buyers describe the cage as sturdy with quality metal.

    A few think the powder-coated metal is cheap and even one owner says the gray metal bars turn black permanently when they come in contact with urine.

    Features

    • Wire spacing: 7/8”
    • Cage dimensions: 31” long x 20” wide x 41 ½” high (54” on stand)
    • Platform dimensions: 20 3/8” x 7 7/8” x ¾”
    • Ramp dimensions: 15 ¼” x 5” x 1/8”
    • 30-day return policy
    • 90-day warranty policy
    • Shelf storage area and caster wheels
    pros

      Spacious

      Multiple levels, platforms, and ramps

    cons

      Wire floors

      No side walls to guard keep in bedding and debris

    Petsfit Rabbit Hutch/Bunny Cage for Indoor Use

    3/5

    The Petsfit Rabbit Hutch, Bunny Cage for Indoor Use looks like an outdoor pet home but makes an “adorable”, “cute” piece of furniture.

    In fact, one consumer says that this hutch is so lovely that she doesn’t feel she has to move out of sight when guests visit.

    But how do the occupants feel?

    Apparent guinea pigs love this dwelling too. We read reports of guinea pigs popcorning inside the Petsfit Rabbit Hutch, Bunny Cage for Indoor Use.

    One owner says his guinea pig behaves like this unit is his kingdom… and why not?

    The solid wood hutch for privacy connects to a patio-like cage for fresh air and sights.

    The only disadvantage of the hutch is that guinea pigs like to chew on wood!

    Good news

    This unit is easy to install. With a large side door as well as a hinged lid that opens up half the cage’s roof, this unit also offers plenty of accessibility for reaching the pet as well as cleaning.

    Not a deal-breaker

    While cleaning is fairly straightforward, several users are frustrated by the pull-out tray. When sliding it out, they find that the bedding jams under the cage and then overflows onto the floor.

    Also, the lack of side walls doesn’t prevent bedding from spilling out. Despite these issues, owners love this unit and suggest creating homemade side walls/barriers out of material like Plexiglass.

    Features

    • Material: Iron wire and solid cedar wood
    • Water-based paint finishing
    • Overall outer dimensions: 36” long x 20” wide x 30 high
    • Hutch dimensions: 19” long, 12” wide x 22” high
    • Weight: 33.1 pounds
    • Includes removable tray
    • 30-day return policy/warranty
    pros

      Good price

      Good looking

      Guinea pigs love the private hutch and open area

    cons

      Pull-out tray sometimes jams with bedding

      No sidewall/barrier to keep bedding from spilling out

    How to House More Than One Guinea Pig

    As herding animals, guinea pigs thrive in groups. Housing two or more guinea pigs together may create happiness as well as stress, though. Here are a few tips:

    • Provide enough space for each guinea pig.
    • Partition the cage to give each animal his or her own separate sleeping quarter.
    • If you notice any signs of aggression or stress, separate the animals immediately. Fighting is obvious aggression. On the other hand, “barbering” (or chewing on each other’s hair) isn’t usually aggressive, but could result from boredom, excitement, behavioral or dietary issues. Nonetheless, if barbering becomes stressful or harmful to any of the guinea pigs, you should give them their own spaces.

    Buyer's Guide

    The 30-Second Review

    You want to make a safe, comfortable home for your guinea pig. When perusing different cages, think about these factors first:

    • number and age of guinea pigs to house
    • where you’ll set up the cage and how much room you have
    • the cage’s size, construction, and design
    • it’s ease of cleaning; and your wallet
    Posted by u/GallowBoob on Reddit

    You’ll want your pet’s home to fit into your home and budget–while keeping every human and non-human family member happy and healthy.

    THE WINNERS

    Buyer’s Guide to Choosing the Right Guinea Pig Cage

    Selecting your guinea pig’s home should be simple.

    Right?

    So, what’s wrong with using an old aquarium, a simple wire cage, or even a plain cardboard box?

    Well, as it turns out, plenty…

    First, glass aquariums DON’T make good guinea pig homes. Why? Glass (or plexiglass) aquariums:

    • have poor ventilation. Little air circulation leads to build-up of heat and (form urine) ammonia levels resulting in overheated guinea pigs and smelly habitats.
    • retain heat and become hot boxes, especially ones in direct sunlight.
    • are too small for even a single guinea pig, much less for multiples.

    And that’s not all.

    Second, simple wire cages don’t have solid floors.

    Although wire floors allow droppings to fall away and out of the cage, they can irritate, cut, and seriously damage feet of guinea pigs stepping on wire all the time.

    This may cause pododermatitus (aka bumblefoot), a painful foot condition where pads become swollen and possibly infected.

    A guinea pig with bumblefoot may become reluctant to move, overweight, and lame. In addition, cavies can “easily catch their feet and legs in a mesh bottom and often lose toes and break legs.”

    Do you care your guinea pigs?

    If you’re thinking about “a cage with a wire bottom because it is the size you need, you will need to make a solid flooring, either from plastic, metal, or treated wood.

    ⚠️And, a word of caution…

    Guinea pigs will just chew through cardboard boxes.

    Cleverly cut and modified boxes can be fashioned into fun playpens or hideouts; however, plain cardboard boxes offer no visibility to the outside (creating isolation and no stimulation) and can’t be cleaned well.

    So what now?

    Avoid aquariums, cages with wire floors, and plain cardboard boxes for guinea pig habitats.

    What to Consider When Choosing the Right Guinea Pig Cage

    • Size

    Guinea pigs need more room than smaller pet rodents (e.g., mice, gerbils, and hamsters).

    They need the space to exercise enough to stay happy and healthy, avoid obesity, and live longer–up to eight years.

    In fact, most cages designed for guinea pigs are still too small.

    We suggest looking at larger models designed for bigger animals, like rabbits.

    Also, remember the cage must house not only the guinea pig, but also toys, a hideaway/shelter, food, and water.

    Hernando’s Hideaway

    Guinea pigs like to use separate areas for different activities. Therefore, the cage needs to have enough space to accommodate these different areas.

    For example, your guinea pig will want to sleep, nest, or just chill in a cozy, secure hiding place away from the cage’s main area of activity. Think of the food dish/water bottle area as the dining room, which should be separate from the “bathroom” area.

    How big?

    The American Animal Hospital Association, which accredits U.S. and Canadian veterinary hospitals, states one guinea pig should be housed in a cage “at least 18 inches high, 24 inches wide and three to six feet long.

    The Humane Society of America recommends a single-guinea-pig cage have a minimum of  7 ½  square feet (30″ x 36″).

    Truth be told…

    Larger is even better.

    As herd animals, guinea pigs enjoy company. They can become lonely and bored without one or more companions.

    We recommend adopting two or more guinea pigs, usually from the same litter or community. If so, follow these guidelines published by the Humane Society of America for:

    • Two guinea pigs:  at least 7 ½ square feet but preferably 10 ½ square feet (about 30″ x 50″)
    • Three guinea pigs: at least 10 ½ square feet but preferably 13 square feet (about 30″ x 62″)
    • Four guinea pigs: at least 13 square feet but preferably larger (about 30″ x 76″)

    Make life easier

    Also, larger cages take longer to become dirty. If you choose a bigger cage, then you might not have to clean it as often–a win-win for everyone.

    Expert tip: “Starter”? Stop!

    Steer clear of guinea cages called “starter homes” or part of “starter kits.”  Usually too small for guinea pigs, these cages are better off for small rodents (i.e., mice, hamsters).

    Construction

    As mentioned earlier, avoid glass, Plexiglass, or purely wire, and cardboard containers.

    Most guinea pig cages are made of metal, plastic, wood, or a combination of these materials. Wire mesh cage tops and sides are fine with solid floors constructed of plastic or metal.

    Peek-a-boo!

    Some guinea pig cages have a solid low (about three inches tall) wall surrounding the bottom. This base pan wall keeps bedding and debris from falling out of the cage but still lets your curious guinea pig to see what’s going on outside.

    If bedding and debris do fall out, use a mop or vacuum, or a hand vacuum (on carpeting) for quick clean-up.

    But beware:

    Some guinea pigs can chew their way out of a plastic or wood cages, so always keep an eye on any growing holes. Also, make sure the structure has no sharp edges or small openings that can cut or trap your guinea pig’s body parts.

    Easy to clean?

    The cage should be constructed so it’s easy to take disassemble and clean. You want a cage with a base pan made of sturdy plastic that’s washable and bleachable without cracking or disintegrating.

    Often powder-coated or PVC-coated steel, the wire mesh upper portion should be easy to wipe down.

    Expert tip: Bar spacing

    Cavy cages feature spacing between horizontal bars from ½” to 1.5”. We recommend about 1”-bar spacing.

    Warning⚠️

    Baby guinea pigs younger than two months old might be able to squeeze through 1”-bar spacing! So, if you own little piggies like these (and they grow larger quickly!), find a cage with a deep bottom pan out of which they can’t climb OR seek with smaller (less than ½”) bar spacing.

    • Top: Open or Closed?

    Guineas pigs aren’t skilled at climbing or jumping (although they do “popcorn” out of happiness), so a cage might not need a lid. It will, nonetheless, need sides high enough to prevent escape. Open-top cages allow easy access for cleaning and more interaction with your guinea pig.

    On the other hand

    A lid or roof can protect the cage’s resident(s) from predators and falling objects. If you have young kids, dogs, or cats, we suggest choosing a closed cage.

    • Accessibility

    Speaking of easy access, we urge you to scrutinize the cage’s openings and doors. Most cages have at least one (sometimes double doors) on the side and at the top. You want doors large enough to open to create ample room for reaching into the cage to pick up your guinea pig, change food and water, and clean the interior easily.

    Check this out

    One convenient side door style is one that folds down like a tailgate. This style offers plenty of accessibility and the door can double as a ramp for the guinea pig to climb down and out of the cage for playtime.

    And remember:

    While examining the doors, don’t forget to check its latches and hinges.

    • Single-level or Multi-level?

    You want a cage large enough level for the guinea pig to run.

    Multi-level cages add more places to explore and hide, but keep in mind that guinea pigs aren’t natural climbers.

    Non-steep ramps preferably with textured solid surfaces should connect the levels. If you choose a multi-level cage,  “make sure that the levels are fairly close together, to prevent serious injuries from falls.

    Think about this…

    If your guinea pig is old, perhaps stick with a single-level cage to avoid potential falls.

    Also, see if you can move the levels around for variety and stimulation.

    • Portability

    Will you need to move the cage often? If so, consider a collapsible and easy-to-set-up model or one on caster wheels.

    Now, let’s get down to business researching guinea pig cages.

    Best Guinea Pig Cage Reviews

    Guinea Pig and Cage Are Home: Now What?

    Once you’ve brought the new guinea pig and cage home, the fun begins.

    First, you need to select an appropriate place to put your furry friend and his or her abode.

    Location, Location, Location

    When choosing just the right location for guinea pig’s crib, think about these factors:

    • Temperature: Guinea pigs easily overheat and are particularly susceptible to heat stroke–ideally the room should about 65º to 70º Fahrenheit.Keep the cage out of direct sunlight and away from strong heat sources, like fireplaces and heating vents.On the other hand, guinea pigs also catch colds easily.Therefore, don’t put the cage in an unheated room, a drafty area (e.g. near doors or windows), on the floor, in the garage or any other chilly location.
    • Humidity: Choose a dry location. Humidity and dampness aren’t good for guinea pigs and promote mold growth in bedding.
    • Activity level: As social creatures, guinea pigs thrive best near family activity. They like to see and hear you, and you’ll want to see and hear them.Choose a place like the family room or a den, not an isolated location like the laundry room, an unused back room, or the garage.
    • Noise Level: Although guinea pigs love company, they also need quiet time. Sensitive to loud noises with keen hearing, they need cages located away from televisions, speakers, and other sources of din.
    • Safety: If possible, put the cage on an elevated surface that’s secure and steady. If the cage is on the floor, make sure it’s out of the way of other pets and young kids.
    • Sanitation: Keep the cage out of the kitchen or wherever food is prepared.

    Expert Tip: Avoid the great outdoors?

    In order to for a guinea pig to enjoy the company of family members, his or cage should be inside.

    Also, putting the cage outside exposes your guinea pig to the elements (e.g. extreme heat, cold or temperature changes), wild predators, and possible kidnapping/theft.

    Nonetheless, supervised outdoor playtime for limited periods yields benefits: exercise, fresh air, and a change of scenery.

    It’s a gender issue.

    Also, keep in mind the guinea pig’s genders when mixing them.

    Reproduction alert!

    Guinea pigs can start breeding as young as four to six weeks old. If you have a male-female roommate situation, unless you want lots of baby guinea pigs, neuter either the male or the female or both guinea pigs.

    Housekeeping

    • In order to keep your guinea pig’s environment clean and sanitary, replace used bedding with fresh bedding every day.
    • Also, rinse feeding bowls and water bottles daily.
    • To minimize odor from urine and feces, spot clean the cage each day.
    • Once a week, wash and disinfect the cage:
    1. Place your guinea pig in a safe place like a travel cage, pet pen, etc.
    2. Empty the cage’s contents (bedding, toys, feeding bowls, etc.).
    3. Rinse out the cage with an outdoor hose or in a bathtub.
    4. Mix one ounce of bleach with one liter. Wipe down all surfaces with this solution and let it sit for five to ten minutes. OR use a pet-safe cleaner and let it allow it to sit for the recommended time.
    5. Rinse off the bleach solution or pet-safe the cleaner and any debris.
    6. Shake out all water and let the cage air dry. In the meantime, wipe down all toys, feeding bowls, etc.
    7. Wipe the cage completely dry.
    8. Restock the cage with two-to-three inches of fresh bedding and replace all toys, bowls, etc.
    9. Place guinea pig back into a fresh habitat!

    But if…

    …your cage is very large and unmovable, clean it in place with a spray bottle of water. Wipe up the mess as you go.

    You could use specially formulated and textured pet cage cleaning wipes like these.

    In either case, be sure to diligently clean out and scrub the large cage.

    Don’t forget to make the bed!

    Please note

    Bedding is crucial to guinea pigs’ comfort. It serves as:

    • the litter box by absorbing moisture and some odor
    • nesting material for burrowing in and hiding
    • a soft surface on which to walk and rest

    Bedding material shouldn’t create health problems, so don’t use:

    Use non-aromatic material, like aspen shavings and bedding made from paper. For bedding formulated to control odor, try this.

    Believe it or not!

    Guinea pigs can be trained to use a litter box.

    The process takes observation, patience, trial, and error. Google “How to Potty Train Guinea Pig” for instructions and video.

    Once your little guinea pig is potty trained, simply dump out the litter box’s contents each night and enjoy a less smelly cage.

    Back Home Again

    When you’re looking for the best guinea pig cage for your furry friend(s), just remember: size and safety are paramount. Cavies need plenty of room to run around to stay physically and mentally healthy. Then consider the cages’ design, construction, appearance and, of course, price.

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    FAQ

    Frequently asked questions

    Where can I adopt guinea pig?

    As with dogs, many rescue organizations save abandoned guinea pigs that need loving homes.

    Google “Guinea Pig Rescue” for one near you.

    We found ones all over the US and in the UK, like Metropolitan Guinea Pig Rescue (MGPR) in DC, MD, VA; Cavy Care Guinea Pig Shelter in Colorado; Carolina Pet Rescue (CPR) in North Carolina; Crazy Cavies Guinea Pig Rescue in Florida; and Cavy Corner Guinea Sanctuary in Doncaster, UK.

    What are some great resources on guinea pig care?

    THE TEAM

    We made this review
    Mingmei Liang

    She works in a large company as an interior designer. Art critic and professional in the field of design.

    Interior designer Mingmei Liang
    Kate Kalanchuk Content Manager Kate Kalanchuk
    Helen Mao Writer Helen Mao
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