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How big should a guinea pig cage be?

Guinea pigs are little herd animals that thrive in groups. They are highly social and enjoy the company of family and other guinea pigs. It is therefor better to have 2 or more piggies living together.

Unlike hamsters, mice and rats, guinea pigs don’t need vertical cages, because they don’t climb. Horizontal cages are perfect for them, because they need the open space to run around.

Guinea pig Cage Sizes

Commercial cages at pet stores are often undersized and mostly suitable for only one guinea pig, which is not ideal.

We all want healthy and happy guinea pigs. In cage sizes – bigger is better, the more space they have, the more likely they will all get along easier too. Even BFF’s need some space away from each other now and then.

It’s a good idea to get a cage that can expand, so if you should get another guinea pig you can simply add more grids. C&C cages (cube and coroplast) are perfect for this reason, you can expand and add grids at any time.

Cage size for one guinea pig

According to the RSPCA and the Humane Society, the recommended space for a single guinea pig is at least 7,5 square feet.

The minimum C and C cage size for one guinea pig is 2 by 3 grids. It is however recommended not to keep a single guinea pig, because they are social animals that feel safer in numbers.

Cage size for two guinea pigs

The recommended cage size for two guinea pigs is at least 10,5 square feet.

The minimum C and C cage size for two guinea pigs is 2 by 4 grids.

Cage size for three guinea pigs

The recommended cage size for three guinea pigs is at least 13 square feet.

The minimum C and C cage size for three guinea pigs is 2 by 5 grids.

Cage size for four guinea pigs

The recommended cage size for four guinea pigs is at least 13 to 16 square feet.

The minimum C and C cage size for four guinea pigs is 2 by 6 grids.

Guinea pig cage size – quick reference chart

Personally I have a play pen for my guinea pigs and it works perfect for us. C and C grids are ideal, but they’re not that readily available where I live, so I opted for a playpen with loads of space.