When it comes to setting up an indoor guinea pig cage, there are some things that you need to consider. You may be tempted to pop it down as close to you as possible, so you always have your piggies by your side, but this isn’t necessarily what’s best for them. Guinea pigs can be sensitive animals and can become highly stressed from factors in their environment.

Traditionally, sawdust was the go-to bedding for guinea pigs until owners and researchers noticed that guinea pigs were frequently developing respiratory conditions. It was quickly discovered the source of this was the sawdust, as it was extremely fine and far too easy for a piggy to inhale. Their bodies aren’t able to effectively filter out the dust, so it remains inside and can lead to discomfort and infections.

While most guinea pigs enjoy the company of other piggies and will become extremely depressed if they are kept alone for too long, there are some guinea pigs that just don’t get along with others. This may be simply due to who they are, or sometimes can be triggered by a certain event.

Chemical cleaners are highly effective at ensuring your guinea pig’s cage is clean, but these can be difficult to use due to their strong scents and potential for irritating the skin. Luckily, there are some natural alternatives that can get the job done too.

The most popular natural pet cleaning products contain distilled white vinegar. Creating a 1:1 ratio of white vinegar to water is super effective at removing bacteria and keeping surfaces nice and clean. Following on from the vinegar, you’ll want to make sure you go over with warm water and a dry cloth to remove any lingering smells.

Another option is simply using a mild unscented soap and water. Liquid soaps are made to remove bacteria and other pathogens and when used with water and dried correctly, it’s perfectly safe for your piggies.

Guinea pigs and rabbits aren’t natural buddies. They are both sociable, but each prefers living with their own kind. It was common for pet owners to keep guinea pigs and rabbits together due to the belief that neutering rabbits was an unsafe practice. However, this procedure is now extremely safe and routine. So there is no reason rabbits can’t be kept together, instead of with guinea pigs. It is also best to keep guinea pigs with same-sex cavy friends, as they will get along well and reduce stress.

Living in an apartment or flat can feel quite restrictive for an animal lover. So, having a little herd of guinea pigs can be a great option. Guinea pigs’ main requirement is space, so you’ll need to be able to provide a room exclusively for them, or section off a larger room for their cage.

It’s not cruel to keep your guinea pigs outside. Guinea pigs can live long and healthy lives outside if they are provided the right necessities and luxuries. Just as an indoor guinea pig, their quality of life falls on how well you can provide for them. With the right guinea pig outdoor cage, food and enrichment, they will be more than happy to spend their days outside.

Guinea Pigs are very social animals. They’re a prey species, and in the wild would live in large colonies to help protect one another and make sure resources stay abundant. If you were to keep a single guinea pig, it wouldn’t be able to find comfort within its home. It can lead them to becoming depressed or developing health issues in relation to stress.

Guinea pigs are social animals, and they need a friend or two to talk to. They can get very lonely if they are kept isolated from other guinea pigs. Though, that is only one reason you shouldn’t keep a guinea pig alone.