Provide a suitable, safe and stimulating living environment

Guinea pigs are curious, social prey animals that need a secure, spacious environment where they can feel safe and express natural behaviours. They require plenty of uninterrupted floor space on a single level, with enclosure size increasing according to the number of guinea pigs housed. Housing should be located in a quiet area away from predators, other animals, young children, draughts and sudden disturbances.

Guinea pigs are sensitive to temperature changes and should ideally be kept at around 15°C. They are best housed indoors, with “C&C” enclosures being a popular option. These spacious, modular enclosures are widely available to buy and can be easily adapted to suit your guinea pigs' needs.

Larger groups may benefit from secure, insulated shed or playhouse conversions that provide ventilation, natural light and protection from adverse weather.

On warm, dry days, guinea pigs can be given access to a secure, predator-proof run for additional exercise and grazing opportunities. Runs should ideally measure at least 1.8 metres × 0.9 metres (6 feet × 3 feet) and have a sturdy lid. They can be purchased or built using good-quality timber and 12 to 16-gauge welded mesh (not chicken wire). Guinea pigs should always be supervised when using outdoor runs to minimise the risk of predators.

Guinea pigs require daily spot cleaning and a weekly full clean. While litter trays filled with hay can help contain some of the mess, most guinea pigs cannot be fully litter trained.

For advice on suitable housing, please contact the Small Animals Team.

Provide appropriate companionship

Guinea pigs are social animals that would naturally live in large herds, so it is important that they have companionship from their own kind.

If you have a lonely guinea pig and are looking for a companion, please get in touch with our Small Animals Team. We can provide bonding advice and information about our bonding service.

The most stable groupings are usually multiple sows or one or more sows living with a neutered boar. Bonded pairs of boars can also work well; however, we recommend pairing boars based on their individual personalities, as some are more tolerant of other males than others. Trios or larger groups of boars should be avoided, as they can become territorial and fight, which may require permanent separation.

Guinea pigs should not be housed with other small animals, such as rabbits, chinchillas or poultry, due to the risk of injury and the transmission of disease.