Guinea pigs are meant to live inside. If a guinea pig were to live outside, it would be harder to moniter their health and wellness. Also, bacause guinea pigs are very social animals, when they are left outside, especially if they are by themselves, they will become extremely depressed. And no one wants that for their guinea pig. Guinea pigs also need a lot of space to roam and play. If you have more guinea pigs, the more space you will need. The options for cages are you can make one from a kit and make it to dsignated size or you can but one. I would suggest buying one. If you were to make one, the wire used for the sides tend to break and could scrape your guinea pig. Also, all materlials used in store bought cages have been approved for all guinea pigs. If you have a larger pet that could be considered preditory, you should have a hard top on your cage to avoid unnessicary accidents.
Changes to a Cage
It is also fun and important to change the cgae a little each day. This will keep the guinea pigs happy. They like to explore. And because they don't get much exercise, this will keep them moving and fit. Don't worry that they won't find their food or treats. Guinea pigs have an amazing sense of smell. They can find food from over a football feild away.
What to Include in a Cage
Inside a guinea pigs cage, you must have a lot of things. Of course you must have the usual water bottle, food bowl, ect. But, you must also have places for your guinea pig to hise, sleep, and exercise. You need to include a hay ball. This will make the guinea pig exercise for its food. You maust also include plenty of hay on the bottom of the hay. Also, guinea pigs are very active. One level cages are not reommended. You can also include toys and chews to sharpen their teeth and get them to exercise more then they would normally do. Guinea pigs are very skiddish. So it is important to have a place for them to hide or sleep. This could be an "igloo" or just a smaller place for them to get warm and comfy.
Positioning of a Cage or Hutch
It is also important to position your cage in a suitable place. It is good to keep it away from a vent or radiator. Don't have it by a TV or speckers either. Constant noise will stress them out. Please be aware that if you were to put it in a garage, even a small amount of car exaust can kill them. Also, damo conditions can cause respitory problems and lead to possible pneumonia.