Settling in a new Hutch

[garethjolliffe]

Wonder if anyone can help. We have 2 guinea pigs who are both 2 years old. They have always been in a single level living quarters in our living room, but due to the restrictoons of space and now that the warmer weather is arriving we decided to purchase a new hutch with a large run below (ramp between both levels) - here's the URL if anyone wants look:

http://ukpetsonline.com/SearchResult.aspx?CategoryID=7

We know it will take a little time for them to settle to the new surroundings but at the moment they will not go up or down the ramp, we have tried encouraging them with treats and a little help but do not want to frighten them either.

Just wondered if anyone else has had the same experience and has any tips?

Many thanks,

Gareth, Nicola & Gaby

 

[mshappy89]

Hi Welcome to the forum.

Is the ramp quite steep? They maybe having trouble climbing it. Perhaps put some carpet offcut over it. This should give them better grip

I have an indoor cage and our piggies wouldn't use the ramp. I stretched a sock over it and they are fine with it now

 

[Salt n Peppers mum]

You might have to do a spot of DIY if the ramp is too steep and frightening,
especially fo a older piggie who are not natural climbers
Also Guinea pigs do seen to mis-judge ramps so try and make it as safe as posible.
Here's an excellent idea http://www.cosycavies.co.uk/products/tunnels/

Our housing section could also give you a few ideas http://www.theguineapigforum.co.uk/showthread.php?t=53209&page=3

 

[garethjolliffe]

Thankyou

Thanks for that, the ramp is a little steep so I have tried to lessen the gradient withone of the litten wooden tunnels that they run through and chew on. Never thought of the carpet idea, I was thinking of something to help their grip but wouldnt have thought of carpet.

I think I may have to get some ply-wood and make a longer ramp to lessen the climb.

Cheers