Cage Location - Indoor or Outdoor?
🏠 Indoor Housing
There really are minimal disadvantages to indoor housing, as it generally provides a safe, temperature controlled and predator-free environment for your piggies to live. Not only do they tend to live longer lives by reducing access to these potentially life threatening risks, but it also increases the bond between humans and guinea pigs as they spend more time with and around the family.
Factors to Consider for Indoor Housing:
🌡️ Temperature
General rule of thumb - if an area is too hot or too cold for you, it is also too hot or cold for your guinea pig!
Temperature is a crucial factor to consider when housing guinea pigs because piggies are highly sensitive to extreme temperatures. They thrive best in a stable environment with temperatures between 18°C to 24°C (65°F and 75°F). Extreme heat or cold can lead to stress, health issues, and even life-threatening conditions. In cold temperatures, guinea pigs may suffer from respiratory infections or hypothermia, while excessive heat can cause overheating and heatstroke. Proper temperature regulation helps ensure their comfort and well-being, making it essential to provide a well-ventilated, temperature-controlled habitat to keep them healthy and happy.
Indoor housing is recommended for temperature monitoring and control, as you have access to electrical appliances that can assist with keeping the environment at a stable temperature.
🥵 Humidity
Humid, hot or moist air needs to be avoided in your guinea pigs environment. A low, stable and humid-free room is ideal.
Rooms to avoid include bathrooms and laundries which will often have fluctuations in humidity levels. These levels can cause respiratory distress if your guinea pig is exposed to these humid extremes for prolonged periods of time. High humidity can also promote the growth of mold and mildew, increasing the risk of respiratory infections and skin problems.
Maintaining balanced humidity levels helps prevent these issues and ensures a healthier, more comfortable living space for your guinea pigs.
☀️ Light
Guinea pigs thrive in a setting that mimics natural day and night cycles, with a consistent period of light and darkness each day. Proper lighting helps regulate their circadian rhythms, which is crucial for their overall health, including their sleep patterns and stress levels. Exposure to excessive bright or artificial light can disrupt their internal clocks and cause anxiety or behavioral issues. Providing a well-lit area with natural indirect light, along with a dark, quiet period each day, supports their natural behaviors and helps ensure they remain healthy and content.
Guinea pigs love routine! A set feeding time early in the morning and in the evening will also assist it making sure your guinea pig becomes more comfortable in your home.
⚠️ IMPORTANT: Do not choose an area for your guinea pig that it in direct sunlight or against glass windows or doors, as the temperature will be too hot.
😍 Interaction
Guinea pigs should be housed in an area where they'll have a lot of interaction with their hoomans! They'll become very confident, comfortable and vocal if you put their cage in a spot where they can see, hear and engage with you regularly.
When guinea pigs are in a room which is excluded from household activities, they will become easily forgotten about or only noticed when needed. We don't want that for our critters!
Guinea pigs can become quite tame and often will love being petted by family members once they are recognised in a room which is used by the rest of the household.
⚠️ IMPORTANT: While piggies' should have regular involvement with their family, make sure the room location has the ability for quiet time as well (ie. near a loud tv that's on constantly isn't ideal!)
💨 Air Flow
If any drafts are present they can cause respiratory infections.
Choose an area which is draft free or alternatively if a room has drafts present ensure the room is made draft proof prior to placing your guinea pigs cage inside the area.
Other Location Options
Garages
Garages: A garage can be an ideal cage location IF it is a finished part of your household and allows in some natural light and air flow.
Cars cannot be kept in same space as your guinea pig. Car fumes in small amounts can be toxic both in the short and long term, and you must ensure no dangerous chemicals or flammable equipment are kept anywhere near your pets' cage.
Outdoor carports with no walls do not offer sufficient weather, pest and predator protection and are not a suitable cage location.
Patios/Sun Rooms:
These locations are very popular in Australia mainly because they offer a sheltered environment for your guinea pig whilst also having the benefit of storing your guinea pigs accessories, hay and other equipment outdoors.
Some owners also prefer these locations as they offer the adaptability of creating a larger cage size then they would be able to offer indoors. It may also be an option for owners who cannot keep their piggies inside the house, but still want to offer a protected area.
OTHER TIPS
Some helpful hints and tips to consider when choosing a cage location are:
• Keep your cage off the ground: Vibrations, vaccuming, footsteps and other tremors can cause your guinea pig to become unsettled. Stands can easily be made, see our Stand section for some great cage solutions!
• Maintain adult supervision - Any pet is a responsibility, and guinea pigs are no exception. Always choose a location where an adult can keep an eye on activities around the cage and how the guinea pigs are handled.
🌳 Outdoor Housing
While we always recommend housing your piggies indoors, we also understand that not everyone has the ability, choice or preference to do so. If you only have the option of housing your guinea pigs outdoors, please read our guide on the important things you need to keep in mind:
1. Shelter and Housing
Weather Protection: Guinea pigs are sensitive to extreme temperatures. Their outdoor housing should be well-insulated to protect them from cold, and it should also provide plenty of shade to keep them cool during hot weather. The housing should be waterproof and elevated off the ground to prevent dampness. It must also have ample covered areas for your guinea pigs to take refuge if the weather is bad.
Predator Proofing: Ensure the enclosure is secure against predators like dogs, cats, snakes, and birds of prey. Sturdy materials like wire mesh with small gaps (smaller than 1cm) can help prevent intruders. The enclosure should be heavy or weighed down to prevent it being lifted up by predators. IMPORTANT: The enclosure must NOT have wire on the bottom as this causes injury and conditions like bumblefoot.
Ventilation: While insulation is important, good ventilation is also crucial. Avoid completely sealing off the hutch as this can cause moisture build-up and poor air quality.
Space: Provide plenty of room for your guinea pigs to move around, with separate areas for sleeping, eating, and playing.
2. Temperature Considerations
Cold Weather: Guinea pigs can struggle in cold temperatures, particularly below 15°C (59°F). Provide extra bedding like hay and fleece hideys, and consider using thermal covers or thick blankets over the housing to keep them warm. In very cold conditions, its recommended to bring them indoors.
Hot Weather: Guinea pigs are prone to heatstroke and can die in as quickly as 10 minutes on a hot day, so in temperatures above 25°C (77°F), it's important to ensure they have access to shade, fresh water, ice bricks and possibly even cooling pads or fans to keep their environment cool. We recommend bringing your guinea pigs indoor during extreme hot weather. Read more on keeping your pets comfortable during extreme weather here.
3. Location of the Enclosure
Shady Spot: Place the enclosure in a shaded area to avoid direct sunlight, which can quickly overheat the enclosure.
Dry Ground: Ensure the enclosure is on well-drained ground to prevent waterlogging, which can make the bedding damp and uncomfortable.
Quiet Area: Choose a quiet part of the garden away from loud noises and disturbances to reduce stress for your guinea pigs.
4. Bedding and Hygiene:
Bedding: Use soft, absorbent bedding where your piggies sleep. Regularly check and replace bedding to keep it clean and dry, as damp conditions can lead to respiratory issues and foot problems.
Cleaning: Regular cleaning of the enclosure is essential to prevent the build-up of ammonia from urine, which can be harmful to your guinea pigs’ respiratory systems.
5. Health Monitoring:
Regular Checks: Outdoor guinea pigs are more exposed to the elements, so it's crucial to regularly check them for signs of illness or distress, such as changes in appetite, behaviour, or physical condition.
Parasite Control: Outdoor living increases the risk of parasites like mites and fleas. Keep an eye out for signs of infestation and consider preventative treatments if needed.
6. Security and Safety:
Locking Mechanisms: Use secure locks to prevent the hutch from being opened by children, other pets, or even strong winds. Ensure the enclosure is heavy enough to not be lifted up by predators.
By taking these precautions, you can create a safe and comfortable outdoor environment for your guinea pigs, allowing them to enjoy the benefits of fresh air and natural surroundings while staying protected from potential risks.
Can My Piggies Be Free Range?
Letting your guinea pig go free-range in your back garden can be risky and not recommended, as it exposes them to various dangers.
Predators like cats, dogs, birds of prey and snakes can pose a significant threat, while the guinea pig’s natural instinct to hide might make it difficult to locate them if they wander off.
They may also ingest toxic plants, get injured on sharp objects, or escape through small gaps in fences.
Additionally, exposure to extreme weather conditions can lead to heatstroke or hypothermia. To keep your guinea pig safe, it’s best to provide a secure, enclosed and protected area if they are to be housed outdoors.
Recommended Indoor Housing
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