If you’re looking to get a new guinea pig or even if you’ve already gotten one, you want to make sure that you have the right place for them to live, right? You want to make sure you have a home that they’re going to be comfortable and safe in. That’s why you’re looking for the best guinea pig cage.
So, just how are you going to find it? You’re actually in luck, because we’ve got plenty of information about the features you need to consider, the questions you need to ask, and the best cages currently available.
Contents
- Types of Guinea Pig Cages
- Best Guinea Pig Cage to Buy
- Best Cages for Guinea Pigs Reviews
- 1. Guinea Habitat – by MidWest
- 2. Living World Deluxe
- 3. AmazonBasics Pet Habitat
- 4. ToysOpoly Indoor/Outdoor Cage
- 5. Midwest Deluxe Critter Nation
- 6. Hutch Wood Cage for Indoor Use
- 7. Yaheetech Metal Cage – Indoor Outdoor
- 8. Prevue Pet Products 528 Universal
- 9. Kaytee Complete Guinea Pig Kit
- 10. Ware Manufacturing Home Sweet – Colors May Vary
- What to Consider When Buying a Guinea Pig Cage?
- What is the Best Kind of Cage for a Guinea Pig?
- How to Set Up Your Guinea Pig Cage?
- How to Clean a Guinea Pig Cage?
- What Size Cage Does a Guinea Pig Need?
- How Can I Keep a Guinea Pig Cage from Smelling?
- Conclusion
Types of Guinea Pig Cages
There are four common types of guinea pig cages to look at and each one has it’s own benefits and drawbacks. Let’s take a quick look at what each of them has to offer.
Aquarium
These cages are sturdy, inexpensive and easy to clean. The problem is they are pretty small and they don’t let in oxygen. While many people buy these to house pets, they’re really only good for fish.
Guinea Pig Cages
Commercial cages are wire and offer breathability and freedom. Plus there are ledges to keep the food above ground level.
Cubes and Coroplast
These cages are the best, offering plenty of space to move around and plenty of flexibility for building them. They’re also plenty comfortable for your guinea pig.
Homemade Cages
People make cages out of anything and if you’re making it large enough and sturdy enough you can definitely opt for getting creative.
Best Guinea Pig Cage to Buy
What type of guinea pig cage is the absolute best? That’s got to be cubes and coroplast. This is a type of cage that you can actually assemble in different sizes and shapes to fit the space and your guinea pigs’ needs.
Pictures | Guinea Pig Cage | Suitable for | Links |
![]() | Guinea Habitat – by MidWest | Indoor/Outdoor | Buy from Amazon |
![]() | Living World Deluxe | Indoor | Buy from Amazon |
![]() | AmazonBasics Pet Habitat | Indoor | Buy from Amazon |
![]() | ToysOpoly Indoor/Outdoor Cage | Indoor/Outdoor/ Travel | Buy from Amazon |
![]() | Midwest Deluxe Critter Nation | Indoor/Outdoor | Buy from Amazon |
![]() | Hutch Wood Cage for Indoor Use | Indoor | Buy from Amazon |
![]() | Yaheetech Metal Cage - Indoor Outdoor | Indoor/Outdoor | Buy from Amazon |
![]() | Prevue Pet Products 528 Universal | Indoor | Buy from Amazon |
![]() | Kaytee Complete Guinea Pig Kit | Indoor | Buy from Amazon |
![]() | Ware Manufacturing Home Sweet - Colors May Vary | Indoor | Buy from Amazon |
Best Cages for Guinea Pigs Reviews
1. Guinea Habitat – by MidWest
Beating the minimum that your guinea pig needs with 8 square feet of space, this cage is designed to give them room to move. It has a canvas bottom that’s lined with PVC to make sure it’s washable and yet still leak proof and also has ramps and doors to give your guinea pig separate areas to play or eat or even sleep.
The top of the cage itself is wire mesh, so you can always see what they’re doing, and you keep them better protected from other pets. Plus you’re going to have a folding top and several doors so you can access your guinea pig easily. And if you want to increase the space even more you can attach other cages to this one.
Pros
- 8 square feet
- Indoor or outdoor
- 1 year warranty
- 14” sides
- Easy assembly
Cons
- Canvas floor isn’t sturdy
- Shallow sides
2. Living World Deluxe
Available in three different sizes, this cage is actually considered a hybrid. It has a plastic lower section and a wire upper area that’s safer for your pets.
The food dish secures directly to the floor to make sure no one (even your feisty pigs) are going to knock it over. Plus, there’s a balcony and an access ramp.
This cage clips together and apart easily and it has several doors to give you easy access. You can get in from the sides or you can even open the roof to gain access. To top it all of you’re going to have a water bottle that you can attach directly to the wire frame.
Pros
- Easy top access
- Water bottle and food dish included
- Food dish secures to floor
- Plastic lower
- Easy open
Cons
- Base is not sturdy
- Second level is not attached
3. AmazonBasics Pet Habitat
Designed for small animals specifically, this cage comes in three different sizes to make sure you have a comfortable fit. The upper section is actually made with iron, so you know it’s durable.
The lower is a plastic base, so it’s easy to clean. You just have to empty the bedding and wipe it out. Under the balcony your pig can get away from it all or on top they can play.
You’ll have openings on the sides as well as the top to give you easy access for anything. Reach in to change food and water or even to clean the cage with ease. There’s even a water bottle and a hay guard, plus a tip-proof dish for food.
Pros:
- Hiding space under balcony
- No tools for assembly
- 1 year warranty
- Easy access
- Food and water containers included
Cons
- Ramp is slippery
- Tall base
4. ToysOpoly Indoor/Outdoor Cage
If you want an awesome place for your guinea pig to play this is it. It’s available in several different colors and it’s plenty large enough for them to really start exploring.
The tent doesn’t require any kind of assembly and it can be folded up when you’re not using it too. All you have to do is open it up, put your pets in and zip it back.
The design means that the corners are reinforced and the seams are protected, making it safer for your guinea pig and keeping them from getting out. The top can even be taken off so you can use this cage indoors or outdoors. It’s even waterproof and has anchors to make it even more comfortable and secure.
Pros
- Indoor/outdoor option
- No assembly
- Zippered top and door
- Money back guarantee
- Mesh side panels
Cons
- Zipper is poor quality
- Can be difficult to fold
5. Midwest Deluxe Critter Nation
If you’re looking for a really deluxe cage this is the one you’ll want to buy. It’s actually 2 stories and includes two platforms. Your guinea pig is going to have a lot of space to run and explore with this one and because it’s wire you know it’s durable.
Not to mention you can see everything that’s happening inside the cage. That keeps your guinea pig safer because you can keep an eye out.
This cage even sits on wheels, so you can move it around whenever (and wherever) you want. Just roll it around and then lock the wheels to make sure it’s secure. The pans at the base of each level are leak-proof and there’s a shelf under the cage for you to store excess bedding, food or anything you want.
Pros
- Multiple levels
- Moveable
- Large doors
- Leak-proof pans
- Ramp covers
Cons
- Need extra tools
- Difficult to assemble
6. Hutch Wood Cage for Indoor Use
Looking for a cage that looks great and works both indoors and outdoors? This is the cage for you. Or rather, it’s the cage for your guinea pig.
The wood design of this cage makes it durable, but it’s intended for use where there’s not going to be any rain. It has a small house for your pigs to rest indoors but also a large wire screened area for fresh air.
Cleaning is simple with the wood roof opening. Plus you’ll have a deep tray that doesn’t leak. On top of that, the whole thing is really easy for you to assemble and get your pigs comfy.
Pros
- Indoor/outdoor cage
- Stylish design
- Easy access
- Easy assembly
Cons
- Animals can chew through
- Pan is difficult to remove
7. Yaheetech Metal Cage – Indoor Outdoor
Getting your guinea pig to get some exercise is a whole lot easier with this large cage. It has three small platforms with ramps to get them up and down frequently. Plus, each platform has space for food, or water.
You’ll love that this cage is on wheels so it’s easy to move. It also has a sturdy wire construction to make it durable. On top of that, you get two doors at different levels, so you always have access.
Choose between different sizes that give even more freedom. Plus, the floor grid keeps your pets comfortable. They won’t have to worry about pinched feet and you shouldn’t have to worry about anything falling out.
Pros
- Foldable design
- Multiple platforms
- Food and water containers included
- Lockable wheels
- Multiple size options
Cons
- Doors are difficult to open
- Requires two people to assemble
8. Prevue Pet Products 528 Universal
The small spacing between wires on this cage keeps your guinea pig safer and makes sure they can’t get out. Even better, the deep base means they don’t make as big of a mess in the surrounding area, but you can still see them.
There are doors on the top and side so you can get access easily. Plus, you’ll have an added platform with a ramp. This gives them more space to play on and under the platform.
If your little one really loves to hide you can even move the platform up or down to create a better space. All you have to do is put this thing together when the box arrives, which is a very simple and quick process.
Pros
- Platform for added play space
- Close wires
- Deep basin bottom
- Large size
- Multiple doors for access
Cons
- Doors are loose
- Difficult to clean
9. Kaytee Complete Guinea Pig Kit
This simple cage is designed to be large enough to comfortably house a guinea pig or any small animal. It’s designed with a deep basin that’s made of plastic to keep anything from getting out. Plus, it’s easy to clean.
There are no tools required to set up this cage and get it ready for your pets to enjoy. Plus, it comes with all kinds of accessories. It comes with a food dish, water bottle, food and even bedding, so you’re ready to go.
The extra large door is easy to open and gives you immediate access. The latches are even designed to be chew-proof to keep your pigs inside. All you’re going to need are your own guinea pigs to put inside.
Pros
- Chew-proof latches
- Deep basin
- No tool assembly
- Includes samples
- Extra-large door
Cons
- Somewhat flimsy
- Water bottle leaks
10. Ware Manufacturing Home Sweet – Colors May Vary
This simple cage design is going to still be highly effective because it gives you everything your pig needs. It’s available in three different sizes to get the right fit for your pet, plus it’s simple to put together.
Assembly doesn’t even require any tools. When you’re looking to get into the cage the large door makes it easy. Even more, when you want to keep them safe the cage is chew-proof and heavy duty.
This cage is designed for anything from guinea pigs and dwarf rabbits to chinchillas and adult rats. That means you can do just about anything with it. Better yet, you don’t have to worry about anything leaking out of the pan.
Pros
- Three size options
- No tools for assembly
- Chew-proof wire
- Heavy duty plastic basin
- Leak-proof basin
Cons
- Top is flimsy
- Floor slopes inward
What to Consider When Buying a Guinea Pig Cage?
There are a number of different things that you’re going to need when you’re looking at a guinea pig cage. We’ll go over a few of the most important features and then move on to finding the right one.
Size
The first thing you should consider when you’re buying a guinea pig case is that your guinea pig is going to keep growing. Too many people tend to buy a small cage for a small guinea pig. Your pet will become a much larger pet in no time at all.
You need a cage that is going to work for them later in life. If there isn’t enough space to run in when they’re larger they will have weight problems later on. Look for something designed for a full size guinea pig.
Guinea Pigs
How many guinea pigs are you going to have in the cage? It’s likely not a good idea to have more than 2 guinea pigs in a single cage. But if you do have 2 you need to have a larger cage.
In general, a cage at least 7 square feet for a single guinea pig is a good idea. A cage at least 11 square feet for 2 guinea pigs is important. Bigger is generally better.
Type of Cage
There are several different types of cages out there, like a Midwest cage, a hutch or a cubes and coroplast cage are common. Each has its own benefits based on indoor or outdoor needs.
Midwest cages and cubes and coroplast cages are good for indoors but not around dogs and cats. A hutch is good for outdoor spaces and has more room available.
What is the Best Kind of Cage for a Guinea Pig?
Your guinea pig is going to spend 99% of their time in the cage. That means they need enough space to run, sleep and eat in the cage.
The most common type of cage is cubes and coroplast. This is a heavy duty plastic that can be snapped together with connectors and cable ties. This makes them easy to set up how you want.
What’s great about these cages is they work well inside and they are easy to find. You can even create your own with corrugated plastic from sign shops.
How to Set Up Your Guinea Pig Cage?
The first thing to do is assemble the cage. If you’re using an aquarium you can just set it on a stand or table. If you’re using other cages you’ll need to snap together the grids or squares to set up.
From there, figure out where to put the cage. You need to keep it in an area that’s comfortable temperature. That means not too close to a window (which could cause draft or overheating).
You also want to stay away from heat vents, which can cause overheating as well. Setting the cage out in a space that’s moderate temperature will keep your guinea pig more comfortable.
Also, place your cage somewhere there is not too much noise, as guinea pigs prefer quiet spaces. Too much noise can cause them to get stressed, which can cause health problems.
Recycled paper or newspaper in the bottom of the cage offers a place to bed down. These are the optimum materials to use as well, as cedar and pine should never be used due to oils.
How to Clean a Guinea Pig Cage?
When it’s time to clean your guinea pigs’ cage you want to remove all waste and food. From there, use a wet towel to clean areas that appear dirty. Any bedding that’s dirty should be removed.
Add fresh bedding to replace any you removed. Wash the food and water dishes and then fill them again. This should be done daily.
Each week do a thorough cleaning by removing everything from the cage. Wash everything from the food and water dish to the favorite hiding place. Use soap and water to clean.
Sweep the old bedding into a garbage bag and use a detergent to spray the cage. You can also use undiluted vinegar or a stronger disinfectant to remove bacteria and stains. Then let it sit for at least 10 minutes.
Use hot water to rinse out the cage and get rid of the remainder of any disinfectant that you use. You’ll want to use paper towels to dry out the cage entirely before you fill it with soft bedding again. Fill the food and water dish and replace in the cage.
What Size Cage Does a Guinea Pig Need?
A single guinea pig should have a cage at least 7 square feet. If you have multiple guinea pigs (no more than 2 per cage) they should have 11 square feet.
How Can I Keep a Guinea Pig Cage from Smelling?
The first thing you should do to keep your guinea pig cage from smelling is clean it frequently. The cage should actually be cleaned daily with all waste removed. It should be cleaned more thoroughly every week.
Use vinegar and water (1:9) to get rid of odors. This can be sprayed directly in the bottom of the cage when you’re cleaning it out. Odor control bedding can be used in place of or alongside the vinegar and water mixture.
Keeping your guinea pig as clean as possible will also keep the cage smelling better. Bathing them is a good step but it’s not always necessary. Only bathe them if they seem to need it to keep them healthier.
Food like mint, dandelion greens, cilantro and parsley will provide a great meal for your guinea pig. It also helps the cage smell even more fresh. Avoiding things like lettuce, broccoli and brussels sprouts can cause an upset stomach, which definitely doesn’t make the cage smell good.
Conclusion
With any of the cages here you’re going to have something that your guinea pig can enjoy and something that’s easy to use. Whether you need something big or small, indoor or outdoor, multi-level or single level, one of these can do it. You just need to pick out which one.
Take a few minutes to look through each of these cages. Look at the questions and important information that you should know. Your guinea pig deserves the best, and if you take a look around you’re going to find all of the information that you need.
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