Soon To Be Guinea Pig Owner

[CaraCaz]

Hello,
I've just joined the forum. I am hoping to buy two guinea pigs, probably female for my daughter's 7th birthday next week. I have been reading some of the information and threads on this site which have been really helpful. I think I am going to keep our pigs inside as otherwise we won't be able to enjoy them so much, but I'm not sure about the cage. A wire cage would mean we would see them more I imagine, but I like the idea of being able to take the hutch outside in the summer months to give the pigs more lights and air. Does anyone have any advice on hutches they could recommend?

When you let them out inside, do you usually have a run for them, presumably best not on carpet...

Many thanks,
Caroline

 

[Hammythehamster]

Hello,
I have two male guinea pigs. I recommend a wire cage that I got from Jollyes, but if you want a good cage get a C&C cage or a DIY cage.
I have a run for them since they are out in the hallway between the washer/dryer room and the downstairs toilet. Just make sure to close all the doors so the piggies can't escape

-hammy

 

[PollyThePiggy]

Hey there! I do not recommend a hutch because they are altogether more award to have and not as fun to play with. I would definatly say that one of the best choices is a large on the ground wire cage. I like these cages for several reasons. They are very roomy and you can see the guinea pig at all times and there is plenty of space to put fun cardboard houses and toys. For me, I live in Illinois which gets very hot, I do not like the ida of hutches. In my climate it can get EXTREMLY hot and humid which is not good for the piggy. Even in the house my pippy gets very hot with the windows closed and the air on. However, i do agree that the air and light is exelent for their health. So for me on cooler days I put her in a play pen or just in the grass while I watch her.

 

[Lady Kelly]

Hi and welcome to the forum. I would say you would be better off having a hutch outdoors and a wire cage indoors. C&C cages can be made up quite cheaply and are completely customizable to the space you have. I used to have a huge one for my four and would sometimes go and sit in it with them to chill out and get to know them better. Mine live outdoors so have a hutch now. It's the 6ft two storey chartwell that I have. I wouldn't use it without the insulating layer and the weatherproof layer though as the back is only plywood which was a bit disappointing. I've had it around 3-4 years though and it's still going strong. It's reasonable on the value for money but in future I would be tempted to go for a much sturdier build with tongue and groove all the way round