https://www.chewy.com/education/small-pet/guinea-pig/housing-for-guinea-pigs
*Guinea pigs thrive on companionship and good care. The Guinea Pig Education Hub covers housing, daily routines, proper diets, and how to decode their unique squeaks and behavior. Start here for a guide to happy, healthy cavies.
Guinea pigs may be small, but they need a spacious, clean, and secure environment to stay healthy and happy.
While a standard 2 by 4-foot cage (8 square feet) is the minimum for 1 or 2 piggies, a larger area - such as a 6 by 10 foot pen - can give them the freedom to exercise and explore without needing a separate play space.
Regardless of the setup, guinea pigs should always be housed indoors, on solid flooring, and never on wire bottoms, which can injure their feet.
Use soft, absorbent bedding like fleece or paper to maintain cleanliness and comfort and avoid wood shavings that may cause respiratory or liver issues.
It is also Very important to include essentials like hideouts, tunnels, toys, hay feeders, and water bottles to create a safe and enriching habitat.
When choosing where to place your guinea pig’s enclosure, opt for a draft free area with a stable temperature between 60 to 75°F (72 to 75°F for hairless breeds) and humidity levels below 50%.
The space should be quiet but not isolated - piggies thrive in environments where they can hear and see their humans, such as the living or dining room.
Loud appliances and direct sunlight should be avoided to prevent stress and overheating.
Daily access to high quality hay, a small portion of pellets, and fresh vegetables is key to their well being, along with plenty of exercise and interaction.
Regular cage cleaning and spot checks are essential to prevent odor and health problems.
With proper care, love, and attention, your guinea pigs will feel safe, joyful, and part of the family - often showing their affection through excited squeaks and joyful zoomies.
By offering a clean, roomy, and quiet space inside your home, you will help reduce your guinea pigs’ stress and support a longer, happier life.
Chewy editorial team covers all the key essentials you need to help your small pets feel safe and comfortable - so you can build lasting trust and enjoy a meaningful bond for years to come.
