Keeping outdoor guineas warm in winter

[steph-J]

Hi I'm after some advice on bedding. I have an outdoor double hutch and worried what to use to keep them warm as it gets cold, I use sawdust and previously straw however now read straw isn't great for them. I'm not sure what option is best for my guineas who definitely aren't litter trained therefore whatever goes down is going to get messy.
Thanks

 

[Piggies&buns]

Bedding for outdoor piggies needs to be an absorbent layer of shavings (or bedding of your choice), and then a thick layer of hay, including hay stuffed into the hides.
Areas of wet hay and bedding need to be removed daily. I try to do twice a day in winter but if I can’t, I always make sure it is done in the evening to ensure there is no damp bedding at night.

You will also need thermal and waterproof hutch covers. You can add additional insulation such as silver foil insulation to the hutch. Something like old blankets or duvets put on the hutch but underneath the hutch covers can also help.

Snugglesafe heatpads are essential for outdoor piggies. If you don’t already have them, then do invest in some. I have one per piggy (don’t forget the additional fleece covers so you can wash)

Mine live outdoors but are in a shed.

Cold Weather Care for Indoor and Outdoor Guinea Pigs

 

[steph-J]

Thanks, I have 1 heat pad so will need to invest in some more as have more piggies now also need to get a hutch cover.
I have the option to put them in the garage but I worry about lack of light etc x

 

[Piggies&buns]

Thanks, I have 1 heat pad so will need to invest in some more as have more piggies now also need to get a hutch cover.
I have the option to put them in the garage but I worry about lack of light etc x

I would add insulation yourself regardless of whether the cover you get is a thermal one or not (it will obviously be waterproof but some are 2 in 1).
Lack of light would be a concern but if it is very cold then moving them into the garage would be the advisable thing to do