Live Life Team
Giving your Guinea Pigs plenty of space to run around in their habitat is important for their health and happiness. Veteran Cavy owners who have gone from using small cages to larger enclosures give all the more credence to this belief with testimonials of how shy, quiet pigs came out of their shells and became more active and friendly. Active and friendly Pigs will mean more fun for you, and fewer vet visits later.
It is now generally recommended that for 1 to 2 Cavies you allow a minimum of 228 square centimetres (preferably 320 sq. cm.) and increase the amount of space by roughly 90 square centimetres per additional Pig. Allowing them extra space to exercise on their own schedule is most beneficial for them, and it is easier on you if you don’t have to worry about whether they’ve had enough exercise each day. Getting plenty of exercise helps prevent obesity, as well as a multitude of related health problems such as heart disease, bumblefoot, respiratory problems, diabetes, and bladder infections.
In addition to health benefits, having plenty of space to run around in provides Cavies with the opportunity to have alone time if they want to get away from each other. There are a number of toys and activities that can be placed throughout the space for entertainment, which will make for happier Pigs. Guinea Pig owners also agree that larger cages are in fact easier to keep clean, and less cleaning for you means you’ll love your Pigs all the more.
