What cage to choose for a guinea pig?

• Size cells.

The size of the cage should allow the rodent to stand up freely on its hind legs, freely run and play. 

Optimal dimensions: 120x60x36h cm. The more pigs you have, the more spacious their house should be.

• Form cells.

In stores you can find many cells of intricate shapes, but it is better to follow the classics. A guinea pig will be more comfortable in a spacious rectangular cage. Tall, multi-level models are useless. It is enough that the height of the cage allows the rodent to stand up freely on its hind legs.

• The distance between the bars.

The bars of the cage should be at such a distance from each other that the pig could not stick its head between them. The best option: 2,54×10,2 cm.

• Material cells.

The bars of the cage must be metal. The metal is reliable, durable, resistant to moisture and disinfectants – and will last a long time.

Wooden cages, although they look cozy and environmentally friendly, in practice are a poor choice. They absorb liquids and odors and are difficult to keep clean. The tree wears out quickly, and parasites can start in its cracks.

Aquariums, even very spacious ones, are not suitable for keeping rodents. They have very poor ventilation. If you like glass, check out the special plexiglass cages.

• Cap.

The removable lid will make cleaning the cage and caring for the pigs several times easier. 

• Dividing panels and ramps.
  

If you have multiple gilts or are planning to breed, choose models with dividing ramps and panels. With their help, you can create separate boxes in the cage to delimit space for pets.  

• Folding doors-ramps.
  

Another important characteristic of the cell. These doors will serve as a ladder for the pigs if you let them out of the cage. It is also useful for taming the animal. If a rodent is pulled out of the cage with his hands, he may start to be afraid of you.

• Cell tray.

Guinea pigs have very sensitive paws. Cages with a mesh bottom will not suit them: it will be painful for animals to walk on such a “floor”. Choose models with a solid pallet. It is better that it is easily removed, does not let water through and is easy to clean: this will greatly facilitate cleaning. For example, trays in Midwest guinea habitat plus cages are Velcro fastened, easy to remove and even washable.

• Castle.
  

The cage must be equipped with a reliable locking system so that the rodent does not escape and get into trouble.

• Can be folded and disassembled

Choose a cage that is easy to take apart and assemble. Such models are convenient to transport and store.

The cage must be installed on a stable base, away from direct sunlight, radiators and noise sources. The optimal height for installing the cage is at the level of your chest. So it will be convenient for you and the animal to contact each other.

These characteristics will help you make the perfect choice and make your pets happy. Enjoy the shopping!