Housing & Cage Setup

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 At North Idaho Guinea Pig Rescue, we prioritize generous space standards to support natural movement and reduce stress.

• 2 guinea pigs: Minimum 7.5 sq ft (2x4 C&C)
  Recommended: 10.5–13+ sq ft (2x5 or 2x6) 
• 3 guinea pigs:
  Recommended: 13–16+ sq ft (2x6 or larger) 
• 4+ guinea pigs:
  Larger custom setups strongly encouraged 

More space = healthier, happier guinea pigs

We strongly recommend:

• C&C cages (grids + coroplast) 
• Or equivalent custom-built enclosures 

Not acceptable as primary housing:

• Pet store cages 
• Small “starter kits” 
• Wire-bottom cages 

These are too small and can cause stress, obesity, and health issues.

 Every enclosure should include:

• Hideouts (minimum 1 per guinea pig)
  Allows them to feel safe and reduce stress *If they are new additions

             make sure to have hideouts with multiple exits*

• Unlimited hay area
  Easily accessible at all times 
• Food and water stations
  Stable and easy to reach 
• Open floor space
  Enough room to run, popcorn, and explore

Choose safe, comfortable bedding:

Good options:

• Fleece liners (washed regularly) 
• Paper-based bedding 

 Avoid:

• Cedar or pine shavings (unless kiln-dried and verified safe) 
• Wire flooring

•  Spot clean daily (remove waste and wet areas) 
• Full clean 1–2 times per week 
• Wash fleece or replace bedding regularly 

Clean cages prevent illness and odor.

 Guinea pigs should be kept indoors only.

• Keep in a temperature-controlled area (65–75°F ideal) 
• Avoid direct sunlight and drafts 
• Place in a quiet but social area of the home 
• Keep away from loud noises and high-stress environments

 Guinea pigs benefit from:

• Tunnels and hideouts 
• Soft resting areas 
• Occasional rearrangement for stimulation 

A boring cage = a stressed guinea pig.

 In addition to a proper cage:

• Provide supervised floor time in a safe area 
• Use playpens or blocked-off spaces 
• Never use exercise balls or wheels 

  We believe guinea pigs should have space to move freely, express natural behaviors, and feel secure. A properly sized and well-maintained enclosure is essential—not optional.