Choosing the Proper Guinea Pig Hutch

Did you understand that of all the guinea pig supplies you are going to require, the most important one to keeping your guinea pig healthy and happy revolves around your guinea hutch?

That’s right and the hutch is far and away the biggest investment you can make in terms of money spent for your new pet so you better make sure you do this properly so you have a healthier and happier pet for many years!

The first point you should consider when looking at a hutch is the size. Think about your guinea pig for a minute here… they are lively and enjoy running around. A small hutch means not very much running and the running you are completing is happening within your toilet. This isn’t a pleasing thought for anyone.
 
I’m not implying that the guinea hutch has to be so large that it consumes a room, but do be confident that you get one big enough for your pet to hide (use as a cave) and run about (to get some exercise).

If you have the room, a 4 feet by 4 feet guinea cage is perfect… but do not purchase one any smaller than 2 feet by 2 feet.  If you own more than one guinea pig, you want to go with a bigger cage. Remember, if your guinea pig (just as with dogs) does not have the ability to play and exercise, then you will have an overweight pet which will probably lead to health problems and sadness.

When looking to purchase a cage an additional part you want to keep in mind is that the hutch has a solid floor.  This is a lot better than a wired floor.  If you use your imagination for a minute, you are able to come up with many reasons why a wired floor is not satisfactory for your pet or the rest of the family. The most common type of a bottom in a guinea pig cage is a plastic floor. This solid floor is much easier to wash and look after. As a bonus, if you can purchase one that slides in and out with ease you are going to be much happier over the course of time.

One thing that many of people don’t consider as they are looking at cages is the door. You are going to want to take notice to this element and make certain that you (or the person with the biggest hand in your household) is able to get your hand in the cage and be able to move throughout the the hutch with ease. You do not want to be struggling when you are required to get inside!

After your cage has been decided upon, you need to decide what type of bedding you intend to use. I have used pretty much all types of bedding offered and without a doubt I will always pick a product called Timothy Hay. This is very safe for your guinea pig and they love to play with it and are known to eat it. As well as the bedding you are going to need to to consider purchasing some toys for your guinea pig. These will be places for him/her to take cover and to play with. You will be able to aquire things such as balls, rocks, large PVC pipes, spinning wheels, etc. Become creative and make your guinea pig cage an exciting place for your guinea pig to play and sleep!