Guinea pigs are a popular pet because they are easy to care for, affectionate, and are an excellent option for children. They also do great in small spaces like apartments if you’ve provided them everything they need to thrive. Are you considering a guinea pig, or do you already have one and need to adapt to a smaller living space? Our guide below can help you!
Setting Up a Guinea Pig Habitat that Suits Small Apartments
While creating the perfect habitat for your guinea pig in a Florida apartment is a bit more challenging, there are some things you can do to ensure you and your pets are comfortable. Let’s take a look at those now.
Size of Cage
When setting up a guinea pig habitat in a small space, you still have to consider the minimum required size for the number of guinea pigs you have. The Humane Society has provided the guidelines below:
- One guinea pig requires at least 7.5 square feet of space (but remember that guinea pigs thrive best when in groups, so you may need to consider having more than one pet)
- Two guinea pigs should have at least 7.5 square feet in their habitats, but 10.5 square feet is better
- Three guinea pigs will need at least 10.5 square feet but will be healthiest with at least 13 square feet
- Four guinea pigs will require 13 square feet, but this is the bare minimum
One thing to consider for your small space is going vertical. With ramps, you can have two, three, or even four levels in which your guinea pigs can roam and increase the overall square footage of the habitat. It makes for a smaller footprint that may make finding the perfect spot in your home easier.
Bedding For the Habitat
Small spaces can make the odor from a guinea pig habitat more noticeable. It’s important to choose a bedding that eliminates odors to prevent this. Other things you may want to consider when choosing bedding are the ability to absorb urine, drying time, and cushioning.
Where to Locate Your Guinea Pig’s Home
There are a few things you should take into account when determining where to place the guinea pig habitat in your home. They love to be around people, so a living room is an option if that’s where you have the most space. However, they are easily startled by loud noises, so they should be stationed away from televisions or speakers.
Temperature Control in Your Habitat
Guinea pigs are most comfortable in a space between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Be sure to avoid windows, as direct sunlight can cause overheating and heating/air vents that can cause drafts. If you can’t avoid air vents due to limited location options, you may be able to redirect the vent or use a safe vent cover to keep your guinea pig comfortable.
Component Placement
Where you place ramps, hides, extra bedding for burrowing, toys, and other habitat accessories are essential, especially if you’ve opted for a multi-level cage. Be sure to spread things out to encourage them to roam about for food and play.
Tips for Cleaning and Maintaining a Guinea Pig Habitat
Your guinea pigs’ habitat should be cleaned once a week. Be sure to set a reminder on your phone or add it to your calendar so you don’t forget! Below are some tips for keeping the cage as clean as possible throughout the week and making cleanup easier.
Spot Cleaning
Spot cleaning is recommended to make the bedding last a week without odors or bacteria growth. All you need to do is remove soiled bedding with a small scoop and replace it with fresh if needed. Check the corners of the habitat, underneath hides, and any place your guinea pig likes to spend a lot of time relaxing for dampness daily to keep your guinea pig happy!
Separate Habitat/Pen/Cage
While cleaning, your guinea pig should be kept in a pet-proof enclosure outside their primary habitat. There are many available, including collapsible ones that are easy to store when not in use. This is also an excellent time for a family member to spend supervised time with them outside their cage.
Cage Cleaner
There are many habitat cleaners available for guinea pigs. Be sure they are unscented and marked clearly as safe for small animals. Follow the instructions on the packaging closely to ensure your pet’s safety. Another option is a 1:1 ratio of white distilled vinegar and water. Spray the sides and bottom of the cage and wipe clean. Then, rinse with water and allow to dry completely.
Accessory Cleaning
Habitat components like hides, toys, food, water accessories, etc., should all be cleaned once a week along with the rest of the cage. You should follow the cleaning instructions provided on the packaging to make sure they remain safe for your pet and last a long time.
Local Places to Find Guinea Pig Habitat Essentials around Viera
Luckily for pet parents in Viera, Rockledge, Suntree, and surrounding areas, there are several pet supply stores where you can get everything you need to care for your guinea pig. Here are a few:
- Pet Pros 500 Barton Blvd #2, Rockledge, FL 32955. (321) 639-4300
- Incredible Pets. 1894 N Wickham Rd, Melbourne, FL 32935. (321) 255-9091
- Pet Supermarket. 4100 N Wickham Rd, Ste 117 Melbourne, FL 32935. (321) 752-5972
Pet Sitting For Your Guinea Pig in Viera, Rockledge, & Suntree
Did you know that professional pet services in Viera can help you care for your guinea pig when you can’t? If you’re out of town and need someone to drop in to give your pet plenty of love, Space Coast Pet Services has you covered!
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