Choosing the best cage for your guinea pig is one task you should accomplish before going home with your pet. Due to a numerous variety of cages, makes it difficult to make the right decision of choosing the one that's right for you. You have to take some pointers and important details to make sure your cavy's cage is safe, spacious, comfortable, clean and attractive.
Where to Get the Cage
Commercially built cages are always available in your pet stores. It is usually designed for one guinea pig and the price ranges from thirty to fifty dollars. Another type is the custom-built. This cage is usually designed according to your preference but built by a professional such as a carpenter or by your local pet store. The last is built by your own hard work. If you have the knowledge and skill to make one then do it. It is less expensive and you would have all the details from your creative mind put into action.
Safety
Never buy or create a cage with a wire bottom because the risks it poses to your cavy. Limbs are often broken and injured from these wire mesh. Some cages are often times overshadowed by their design and aesthetic features that the buyer fails to see that it has a wire bottom. So don't be impulsive in buying one, always remember that not all attractive and expensive cages provide the necessary safety for your guinea pig.
Make sure the cage is not accessible to other creatures in the house. As an easy prey, cavies are very fragile and delectable. So remember to keep the cat away for your cavy's sake.
Keep your cage on a stable place. Wind and other elements can knock out the cage and cause serious damage to your pet. Add additional support and place the cage away from the window.
If you are using a C&C cage make sure to use a 14x14 inch grid. 8x8 grids have reportedly been very dangerous and cause a number of strangulation deaths.
Space
A single guinea pig should have a minimum of 2 square feet of area in the cage. The more guinea pigs you have the bigger cage they would need. And as a good saying goes, bigger is way better. A spacious room provides adequate area to play. This keeps your guinea pig always on the go. A congested and closed tight area makes your pet static. A major health problem can arise from creatures that eat all day doing nothing.
Cleanliness
Choose a cage that is easy to clean. Commercial cages usually have a removable bottom pan which makes cleaning easy as one two three. A large opening door in a cage also provides easy access for you if you are cleaning it. Be sure to remove poop and urine regularly.
Aquariums
Many pet owners use aquariums as guinea pig homes. However, numerous studies state that it is not the ideal place for a cavy. Be aware that it is very difficult to clean and it needs special solutions to totally remove the stains. Air ventilation is also limited and pressure can often build up if it becomes too hot or too cold. Keep it away from direct sunlight and remember to let the air out after disinfecting it. Fumes from the disinfectant can remain contained in the aquarium and can make your cavy sick.