{ "schema": "whattobuyfor/v1", "type": "situation", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/a-new-guinea-pig/", "json": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/a-new-guinea-pig.json", "publisher": "What to Buy For", "method": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/how-we-build-a-basket/", "pricesAsOf": "2026-10-26T07:32:29.264Z", "priceNote": "Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.", "affiliateDisclosure": "Links to Amazon are affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.", "title": "What to buy for a new guinea pig", "section": "pets", "answer": "Seven things for two guinea pigs, all before they come home: a pen, bedding, three hides, hay, nuggets and bowls. Guinea pigs get lonely, and the RSPCA says they should not be kept alone. Fresh vegetables, vet checks and an outdoor hutch are not included.", "published": "2026-10-02", "updated": "2026-10-02", "noindex": false, "whyThisBasket": [ "Built from RSPCA, PDSA, Wood Green and Rabbit Welfare Association advice on housing and feeding guinea pigs. Everything is sized for a pair, as the RSPCA advises.", "Space comes first, then hiding places. Guinea pigs feel exposed in open space, the RSPCA says, and need one more refuge than there are guinea pigs.", "Food is mostly hay. PDSA says hay should be 85 to 90% of the diet, plus a tablespoon of guinea pig nuggets each a day for vitamin C, which guinea pigs cannot make themselves.", "It is an indoor setup because it is autumn: the RSPCA says to move guinea pigs indoors when it is below 15°C." ], "basket": [ { "id": "their-space", "label": "Their space", "intro": null, "countsTowardTotal": true, "roles": [ { "role": "A metal grid pen, one level, big enough for two", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/a-new-guinea-pig/#role-pen", "quantity": "2 sets", "lasts": null, "consumable": false, "lastsDays": null, "pick": { "asin": "B0BCJN5CTQ", "name": "HOMIDEC Rabbit Run", "amazonTitle": "HOMIDEC Rabbit Run,Puppy Pen with Door,Indoor/Outdoor DIY Metal Pet Fence", "brand": "HOMIDEC", "image": "https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41rtQAvwsuL._SL500_.jpg", "amazonUrl": "https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0BCJN5CTQ?tag=whattobuyfor-21", "data": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/products/B0BCJN5CTQ.json", "price": { "amount": 22.99, "currency": "GBP", "checkedAt": "2026-10-26T07:32:29.264Z", "note": "Checked on Amazon UK that morning; the price at checkout on amazon.co.uk applies." }, "availability": { "status": "IN_STOCK", "amazonMessage": null }, "subscribeAndSave": null, "signal": null, "amazon": { "source": "amazon.co.uk", "recordedAt": "2026-09-27T02:37:10.254Z", "rating": 4.5, "ratings": 1237, "boughtLastMonth": "400+", "categoryRank": { "position": 2, "category": "Small Animal Playpens" } }, "buyersSay": { "method": "Our own summary of the reviews Amazon showed; each count is the number of reviews making the point.", "reviewsRead": 8, "readOn": "2026-09-27", "like": [ { "text": "Quick to put together and easy to reshape to fit the room", "count": 5 }, { "text": "Sturdy, especially once the cable ties are fitted", "count": 5 }, { "text": "Extra sets join on to make a bigger pen or a second level", "count": 3 } ], "watchOutFor": [ { "text": "The lift-up door is awkward, and small paws can catch on it", "count": 2 } ] }, "ourName": "HOMIDEC metal grid pen panels, 35cm", "ourTake": "Wood Green's minimum indoor space for two females or a neutered pair is 153 by 61cm on one level, and 182cm long for two males. One set of these 35cm metal mesh panels builds 140 by 70cm, the listing says, so buy two and build one level at least 175cm long. There is no floor: stand it on a waterproof base such as correx or lino, then add bedding." }, "budget": null, "upgrade": null, "sources": [ { "name": "Woodgreen Pets Charity: how to house your guinea pigs", "url": "https://woodgreen.org.uk/pet-advice/guinea-pig/how-to-house-your-guinea-pigs/", "checked": "2026-09-27" }, { "name": "RSPCA: making the right home for your guinea pigs", "url": "https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/rodents/guineapigs/environment", "checked": "2026-09-27" }, { "name": "the product's Amazon listing" } ] }, { "role": "Dust-free paper bedding", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/a-new-guinea-pig/#role-bedding", "quantity": "1 bag", "lasts": null, "consumable": false, "lastsDays": null, "pick": { "asin": "B003XLBV3S", "name": "Back2Nature Small Animal Bedding", "amazonTitle": "Back2Nature Small Animal Bedding (30L) - Non-Toxic Recycled Paper | 99% Recyced Paper. Highly Absorbent with Excellent Odour Control. Non-Clumping, Biodegradable and Compostable. Made in UK.", "brand": "Back-2-Nature", "image": "https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51l5Ge3f8zL._SL500_.jpg", "amazonUrl": "https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B003XLBV3S?tag=whattobuyfor-21", "data": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/products/B003XLBV3S.json", "price": { "amount": 14.55, "currency": "GBP", "checkedAt": "2026-10-26T07:32:29.264Z", "note": "Checked on Amazon UK that morning; the price at checkout on amazon.co.uk applies." }, "availability": { "status": "IN_STOCK", "amazonMessage": null }, "subscribeAndSave": { "amount": 14.15, "currency": "GBP" }, "signal": { "label": "Always \"on offer\"", "note": "53 of 53 days", "basis": "our daily price checks" }, "amazon": { "source": "amazon.co.uk", "recordedAt": "2026-09-27T02:30:35.263Z", "rating": 4.7, "ratings": 5238, "boughtLastMonth": "9K+", "categoryRank": { "position": 1, "category": "Bedding & Substrate for Small Animals" } }, "buyersSay": { "method": "Our own summary of the reviews Amazon showed; each count is the number of reviews making the point.", "reviewsRead": 8, "readOn": "2026-09-27", "like": [ { "text": "Soaks up wet well and keeps smells down between cleans", "count": 6 }, { "text": "Soft paper pellets that are gentle on small feet", "count": 4 }, { "text": "Low in dust, with little mess carried out", "count": 2 } ], "watchOutFor": [] }, "ourName": "Back2Nature paper bedding, 30L", "ourTake": "The RSPCA wants a solid floor with a good depth of litter, and PDSA lists shredded paper among suitable bedding. This bedding is 99% recycled paper, the listing says; spread it over the pen's waterproof base. Put hay on top as well, since the RSPCA says bedding should be safe to eat, such as dust-free hay. Spot clean daily and deep clean at least weekly, the RSPCA says." }, "budget": null, "upgrade": null, "sources": [ { "name": "RSPCA: making the right home for your guinea pigs", "url": "https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/rodents/guineapigs/environment", "checked": "2026-09-27" }, { "name": "PDSA: the ideal home for your guinea pigs", "url": "https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/looking-after-your-pet/small-pets/the-ideal-home-for-your-guinea-pig", "checked": "2026-09-27" }, { "name": "the product's Amazon listing" } ] }, { "role": "A hide for each guinea pig", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/a-new-guinea-pig/#role-hides", "quantity": "2", "lasts": null, "consumable": false, "lastsDays": null, "pick": { "asin": "B0D9NHRYHP", "name": "Guinea Pig House", "amazonTitle": "Guinea Pig House, 1 Pack (24 X 24cm) Small Animal Winter Warm Nest, Non Slip Strawberry Hedgehog With Removable Pad, Animals Warm Sleeping (Red)", "brand": "JNGTKL", "image": "https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41F7aAzOX3L._SL500_.jpg", "amazonUrl": "https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0D9NHRYHP?tag=whattobuyfor-21", "data": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/products/B0D9NHRYHP.json", "price": { "amount": 8.49, "currency": "GBP", "checkedAt": "2026-10-26T07:32:29.264Z", "note": "Checked on Amazon UK that morning; the price at checkout on amazon.co.uk applies." }, "availability": { "status": "IN_STOCK", "amazonMessage": null }, "subscribeAndSave": null, "signal": null, "amazon": { "source": "amazon.co.uk", "recordedAt": "2026-09-27T03:32:21.362Z", "rating": 4.3, "ratings": 108, "boughtLastMonth": "100+", "categoryRank": { "position": 10, "category": "Small Animal Beds" } }, "buyersSay": { "method": "Our own summary of the reviews Amazon showed; each count is the number of reviews making the point.", "reviewsRead": 8, "readOn": "2026-09-27", "like": [ { "text": "Guinea pigs move in and settle down straight away", "count": 4 }, { "text": "Washes in the machine and keeps its shape afterwards", "count": 4 }, { "text": "Roomy enough for a guinea pig to curl up inside", "count": 4 } ], "watchOutFor": [] }, "ourName": "JNGTKL plush guinea pig house", "ourTake": "The RSPCA says guinea pigs feel vulnerable in open space, need places to get away from each other, and should have one more refuge than there are guinea pigs. This soft house is 24 by 24cm with a removable pad, and washes by hand or machine, the listing says. Two of these and the hay cottage below make three refuges for a pair." }, "budget": null, "upgrade": null, "sources": [ { "name": "RSPCA: making the right home for your guinea pigs", "url": "https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/rodents/guineapigs/environment", "checked": "2026-09-27" }, { "name": "RSPCA: keeping guinea pigs together", "url": "https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/rodents/guineapigs/company", "checked": "2026-09-27" }, { "name": "the product's Amazon listing" } ] }, { "role": "A third hide they can chew", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/a-new-guinea-pig/#role-hay-house", "quantity": "1", "lasts": null, "consumable": false, "lastsDays": null, "pick": { "asin": "B00D42I1R0", "name": "Rosewood Naturals Large Carrot Cottage for Small Animals", "amazonTitle": "Rosewood Naturals Large Carrot Cottage for Small Animals - Edible Toy, Hay House, Den and Hideout for Rabbits, Guinea Pigs and Chinchillas", "brand": "Rosewood", "image": "https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51hnuKI4f0L._SL500_.jpg", "amazonUrl": "https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00D42I1R0?tag=whattobuyfor-21", "data": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/products/B00D42I1R0.json", "price": { "amount": 12.49, "currency": "GBP", "checkedAt": "2026-10-26T07:32:29.264Z", "note": "Checked on Amazon UK that morning; the price at checkout on amazon.co.uk applies." }, "availability": { "status": "IN_STOCK", "amazonMessage": null }, "subscribeAndSave": { "amount": 11.24, "currency": "GBP" }, "signal": { "label": "Always \"on offer\"", "note": "30 of 30 days", "basis": "our daily price checks" }, "amazon": { "source": "amazon.co.uk", "recordedAt": "2026-09-27T02:23:00.865Z", "rating": 4.5, "ratings": 3672, "boughtLastMonth": "600+", "categoryRank": { "position": 1, "category": "Small Animal Habitat Décor" } }, "buyersSay": { "method": "Our own summary of the reviews Amazon showed; each count is the number of reviews making the point.", "reviewsRead": 13, "readOn": "2026-09-27", "like": [ { "text": "Pets take to it within seconds and happily chew it down", "count": 12 }, { "text": "Used as a den for hiding and napping until it gets eaten", "count": 6 }, { "text": "The carrot roof is the first part to be stripped", "count": 4 } ], "watchOutFor": [ { "text": "Only one doorway, so owners of pairs would like a second exit", "count": 2 } ] }, "ourName": "Rosewood carrot cottage, large", "ourTake": "The RSPCA suggests special houses, cardboard boxes or tubes as refuges. This cottage is cellulose fibre coated in meadow hay and carrot, bonded with water and vegetable starch, the listing says, and the large size, 37 x 25 x 24cm, suits all adult guinea pigs. They will eat it, so expect to replace it." }, "budget": null, "upgrade": null, "sources": [ { "name": "RSPCA: making the right home for your guinea pigs", "url": "https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/rodents/guineapigs/environment", "checked": "2026-09-27" }, { "name": "the product's Amazon listing" } ] } ] }, { "id": "food-and-water", "label": "Food and water", "intro": null, "countsTowardTotal": true, "roles": [ { "role": "Hay, always in reach", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/a-new-guinea-pig/#role-hay", "quantity": "1 bag to start", "lasts": null, "consumable": false, "lastsDays": null, "pick": { "asin": "B0011NR9FO", "name": "Extra Select Premium Meadow Hay for Small Animals", "amazonTitle": "Extra Select Premium Meadow Hay for Small Animals - UK Sourced ideal Rabbit Food, Hay for Guinea Pigs, Hedgehogs, etc - 1kg", "brand": "Extra Select", "image": "https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51ZTbtZ7BfL._SL500_.jpg", "amazonUrl": "https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0011NR9FO?tag=whattobuyfor-21", "data": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/products/B0011NR9FO.json", "price": { "amount": 2.79, "currency": "GBP", "checkedAt": "2026-10-26T07:32:29.264Z", "note": "Checked on Amazon UK that morning; the price at checkout on amazon.co.uk applies." }, "availability": { "status": "IN_STOCK", "amazonMessage": null }, "subscribeAndSave": { "amount": 2.79, "currency": "GBP" }, "signal": { "label": "Real deal today", "note": null, "basis": "our daily price checks" }, "amazon": { "source": "amazon.co.uk", "recordedAt": "2026-09-27T02:37:07.727Z", "rating": 4.3, "ratings": 821, "boughtLastMonth": "6K+", "categoryRank": { "position": 2, "category": "Small Animal Food" } }, "buyersSay": { "method": "Our own summary of the reviews Amazon showed; each count is the number of reviews making the point.", "reviewsRead": 8, "readOn": "2026-09-27", "like": [ { "text": "Rabbits and guinea pigs tuck into it straight away", "count": 4 }, { "text": "Good value next to pricier branded hays", "count": 2 } ], "watchOutFor": [] }, "ourName": "Extra Select meadow hay, 1kg", "ourTake": "PDSA says hay should make up 85 to 90% of a guinea pig's diet and cannot be overfed, and the RSPCA says good hay should be there at all times. This is UK-grown meadow hay, dust-extracted and unchopped, the listing says. Start with one bag; once they take to it, the three-bag pack saves reordering." }, "budget": null, "upgrade": { "asin": "B078WVTW93", "name": "Extra Select Premium Meadow Hay for Small Animals", "amazonTitle": "Extra Select Premium Meadow Hay for Small Animals - UK Sourced ideal Rabbit Food, Hay for Guinea Pigs, Hedgehogs, etc. - 2kg (Pack of 3, Total 6kg)", "brand": "Extra Select", "image": "https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51ZH3N9VCAL._SL500_.jpg", "amazonUrl": "https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B078WVTW93?tag=whattobuyfor-21", "data": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/products/B078WVTW93.json", "price": { "amount": 17.99, "currency": "GBP", "checkedAt": "2026-10-26T07:32:29.264Z", "note": "Checked on Amazon UK that morning; the price at checkout on amazon.co.uk applies." }, "availability": { "status": "IN_STOCK", "amazonMessage": null }, "subscribeAndSave": { "amount": 17.99, "currency": "GBP" }, "signal": null, "amazon": { "source": "amazon.co.uk", "recordedAt": "2026-09-27T02:18:43.837Z", "rating": 4.4, "ratings": 1737, "boughtLastMonth": "1K+", "categoryRank": { "position": 3, "category": "Small Pet's Hay & Grass" } }, "buyersSay": { "method": "Our own summary of the reviews Amazon showed; each count is the number of reviews making the point.", "reviewsRead": 8, "readOn": "2026-09-27", "like": [ { "text": "Rabbits and guinea pigs eat it readily, fussy ones included", "count": 5 }, { "text": "The bulk pack lasts weeks and works out cheaper", "count": 4 }, { "text": "Fresh smelling, with little dust in the bags", "count": 3 } ], "watchOutFor": [ { "text": "Quality can vary by batch, with sticks or dusty hay", "count": 2 } ] }, "ourName": "Extra Select meadow hay, 3 x 2kg" }, "sources": [ { "name": "PDSA: your guinea pig's diet", "url": "https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/looking-after-your-pet/small-pets/your-guinea-pig-s-diet", "checked": "2026-09-27" }, { "name": "RSPCA: what to feed a guinea pig", "url": "https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/rodents/guineapigs/diet", "checked": "2026-09-27" }, { "name": "the product's Amazon listing" } ] }, { "role": "Grass-based nuggets made for guinea pigs", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/a-new-guinea-pig/#role-nuggets", "quantity": "1 bag", "lasts": null, "consumable": false, "lastsDays": null, "pick": { "asin": "B0B7MVHQSF", "name": "Excel Guinea Pig Food", "amazonTitle": "Excel Guinea Pig Food, Green, 3 kg (Pack of 1)", "brand": "Excel", "image": null, "amazonUrl": "https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0B7MVHQSF?tag=whattobuyfor-21", "data": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/products/B0B7MVHQSF.json", "price": null, "availability": null, "subscribeAndSave": null, "signal": null, "amazon": { "source": "amazon.co.uk", "recordedAt": "2026-09-27T03:38:23.916Z", "rating": 4.7, "ratings": 1164, "boughtLastMonth": "2K+", "categoryRank": { "position": 11, "category": "Small Animal Food" } }, "buyersSay": { "method": "Our own summary of the reviews Amazon showed; each count is the number of reviews making the point.", "reviewsRead": 9, "readOn": "2026-09-27", "like": [ { "text": "Guinea pigs eat these nuggets eagerly, mint and all", "count": 8 }, { "text": "A bag goes a long way and is good value", "count": 4 } ], "watchOutFor": [] }, "ourName": "Burgess Excel guinea pig nuggets, 3kg", "ourTake": "Guinea pigs cannot make their own vitamin C, the RSPCA says, and PDSA wants grass-based pellets made for guinea pigs, all one shape, about a tablespoon per adult a day. Burgess lists grass meal first, adds vitamin C and says every nugget is the same. PDSA says to keep pellets cool, dry and dark and use them within three months of buying, because the vitamin C breaks down." }, "budget": null, "upgrade": null, "sources": [ { "name": "RSPCA: guinea pig care", "url": "https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/rodents/guineapigs", "checked": "2026-09-27" }, { "name": "PDSA: your guinea pig's diet", "url": "https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/looking-after-your-pet/small-pets/your-guinea-pig-s-diet", "checked": "2026-09-27" }, { "name": "RSPCA: what to feed a guinea pig", "url": "https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/rodents/guineapigs/diet", "checked": "2026-09-27" }, { "name": "Burgess Pet Care: Excel guinea pig nuggets with mint", "url": "https://www.burgesspetcare.com/shop/guinea-pig-food/excel-adult-guinea-pig-nuggets-with-mint/", "checked": "2026-09-27" } ] }, { "role": "Heavy bowls for nuggets and water", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/a-new-guinea-pig/#role-bowls", "quantity": "3", "lasts": null, "consumable": false, "lastsDays": null, "pick": { "asin": "B003672PPC", "name": "Rosewood Stoneware Ceramic Pet Bowl for Small Animals", "amazonTitle": "Rosewood Stoneware Ceramic Pet Bowl for Small Animals - Carrot Design, Food Bowl for Guinea Pigs, Hamsters, Rabbits, Degus, and Ferrets, 13 cm (1pc, Assorted Colours)", "brand": "Rosewood", "image": "https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31pxP8Z6jiL._SL500_.jpg", "amazonUrl": "https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B003672PPC?tag=whattobuyfor-21", "data": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/products/B003672PPC.json", "price": { "amount": 5.49, "currency": "GBP", "checkedAt": "2026-10-26T07:32:29.264Z", "note": "Checked on Amazon UK that morning; the price at checkout on amazon.co.uk applies." }, "availability": { "status": "IN_STOCK", "amazonMessage": null }, "subscribeAndSave": null, "signal": null, "amazon": { "source": "amazon.co.uk", "recordedAt": "2026-09-27T02:18:49.078Z", "rating": 4.4, "ratings": 255, "boughtLastMonth": "300+", "categoryRank": { "position": 3, "category": "Bowls for Small Animals" } }, "buyersSay": { "method": "Our own summary of the reviews Amazon showed; each count is the number of reviews making the point.", "reviewsRead": 9, "readOn": "2026-09-27", "like": [ { "text": "Heavy enough that pets cannot tip it over", "count": 5 }, { "text": "A good size for an adult rabbit", "count": 3 }, { "text": "Well made, with a cute carrot design", "count": 3 } ], "watchOutFor": [ { "text": "The colour is pot luck, so you may not get your choice", "count": 2 } ] }, "ourName": "Rosewood stoneware bowl, 13cm", "ourTake": "The RSPCA says fresh water must be there all the time and checked twice a day, and that a pair needs enough food and water for both at once. Heavy stoneware is hard to tip over, and this 13cm bowl is sold for guinea pigs, the listing says. Use one for nuggets and two for water, or clip a water bottle to the pen's mesh instead of one bowl." }, "budget": null, "upgrade": null, "sources": [ { "name": "RSPCA: what to feed a guinea pig", "url": "https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/rodents/guineapigs/diet", "checked": "2026-09-27" }, { "name": "RSPCA: keeping guinea pigs together", "url": "https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/rodents/guineapigs/company", "checked": "2026-09-27" }, { "name": "the product's Amazon listing" } ] } ] } ], "totals": { "today": { "amount": 109.26, "currency": "GBP", "itemsPriced": 6, "itemsMissingPrice": 1 }, "monthlyRunningCost": null }, "canWait": [ { "what": "An exercise run", "why": "PDSA says the run should be at least 2m by 1m, and the Rabbit Welfare Association asks for an exercise area of 6ft by 4ft on top of the living space. Set up the pen first, then add the run." }, { "what": "An outdoor hutch", "why": "The RSPCA says to move guinea pigs indoors when it is below 15°C, so an autumn start is an indoor one. For an outdoor home later, PDSA says the hutch should be at least 1.5 by 1m with a 2 by 1m run attached." } ], "skip": [ { "what": "A rabbit as company", "why": "The RSPCA says rabbits and guinea pigs do not make ideal companions: they have different needs and do not understand each other's behaviour. Guinea pigs are best kept with guinea pigs." }, { "what": "Muesli-style guinea pig food", "why": "PDSA says never to feed a muesli-style mix, because guinea pigs pick out the bits they like best. Pellets should all be the same shape and colour." }, { "what": "Cages with a wire or grid floor", "why": "The RSPCA says grid floors let the litter fall through and can hurt guinea pigs' feet." }, { "what": "Two-level cages with narrow ramps", "why": "Wood Green's minimum space is on a single level, and the Rabbit Welfare Association says indoor housing should ideally be on one level or have wide ramps with sides." }, { "what": "Pine shavings and fluffy bedding", "why": "The RSPCA says not to use softwood products such as pine, or nesting material that separates into thin strands, like cotton wool." }, { "what": "Small starter cages", "why": "Wood Green's minimum indoor space for a pair is 153 by 61cm, and it says most shop-bought cages and hutches are smaller than that, especially for two males." } ], "questions": [ { "question": "What do guinea pigs need in their cage?", "answer": "Room, a solid floor with bedding, a hiding place for each guinea pig plus one, hay at all times, a daily portion of guinea pig nuggets and fresh water. That list comes from the RSPCA, which also wants the space high enough for them to stand on their back legs, about 30cm for a young one's jumps." }, { "question": "Can guinea pigs live alone?", "answer": "No. The RSPCA says guinea pigs get lonely and should not be kept alone. Good pairs are two females, brothers raised together, or a neutered male with one or more females. A rabbit is not a substitute: the RSPCA says rabbits and guinea pigs do not make ideal companions." }, { "question": "How big should a guinea pig cage be?", "answer": "At least 153 by 61cm on one level for two females or a neutered pair, and 182 by 61cm for two males, Wood Green says. The Rabbit Welfare Association puts the minimum hutch at 4ft by 2ft, with a 6ft by 4ft exercise area, and PDSA wants a run of at least 2m by 1m. Bigger is better in every case." }, { "question": "What do guinea pigs eat every day?", "answer": "Mostly hay. PDSA says hay should be 85 to 90% of the diet, with a tablespoon of guinea pig pellets per adult and a cup of fresh vegetables each, from at least five or six kinds. The RSPCA says fresh water must always be available and checked twice a day." }, { "question": "Should guinea pigs live indoors in winter?", "answer": "Yes, once it is cold. The RSPCA says to move them indoors when the temperature is below 15°C, that 17 to 20°C suits them best, and that they cope badly with big swings in temperature. If they go back outside in spring, wait for the right temperature first." } ], "sources": [ { "name": "RSPCA: guinea pig care", "url": "https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/rodents/guineapigs", "checked": "2026-09-27" }, { "name": "RSPCA: making the right home for your guinea pigs", "url": "https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/rodents/guineapigs/environment", "checked": "2026-09-27" }, { "name": "RSPCA: what to feed a guinea pig", "url": "https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/rodents/guineapigs/diet", "checked": "2026-09-27" }, { "name": "RSPCA: keeping guinea pigs together", "url": "https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/rodents/guineapigs/company", "checked": "2026-09-27" }, { "name": "PDSA: the ideal home for your guinea pigs", "url": "https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/looking-after-your-pet/small-pets/the-ideal-home-for-your-guinea-pig", "checked": "2026-09-27" }, { "name": "PDSA: your guinea pig's diet", "url": "https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/looking-after-your-pet/small-pets/your-guinea-pig-s-diet", "checked": "2026-09-27" }, { "name": "Woodgreen Pets Charity: how to house your guinea pigs", "url": "https://woodgreen.org.uk/pet-advice/guinea-pig/how-to-house-your-guinea-pigs/", "checked": "2026-09-27" }, { "name": "Rabbit Welfare Association & Fund: owning guinea pigs", "url": "https://rabbitwelfare.co.uk/welfare-need/owning-guinea-pigs/", "checked": "2026-09-27" }, { "name": "Burgess Pet Care: Excel guinea pig nuggets with mint", "url": "https://www.burgesspetcare.com/shop/guinea-pig-food/excel-adult-guinea-pig-nuggets-with-mint/", "checked": "2026-09-27" } ], "related": [ { "title": "What to buy for a house rabbit", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/a-house-rabbit/", "json": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/a-house-rabbit.json" }, { "title": "What to buy for a pet budgie", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/a-pet-bird/", "json": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/a-pet-bird.json" }, { "title": "What to buy for a new kitten", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/a-new-kitten/", "json": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/a-new-kitten.json" } ] }