When I first brought home two guinea pigs, I made the classic beginner mistake. I bought one of those tiny pet store cages that barely gave them room to turn around. Within a week, I noticed they were lethargic, barely moving, and honestly looked bored out of their minds.
That is when I went down the rabbit hole researching the best large guinea pig cages available. What I learned changed everything about how I house my pets. Guinea pigs need serious floor space. The bare minimum is 7.5 square feet for two pigs, but experienced owners and rescues recommend 10.5 square feet or more.
Our team spent three months testing 8 of the most popular large guinea pig cages on the market. We looked at everything from the MidWest Habitat to acrylic C&C-style enclosures. We compared floor space, cleaning ease, durability, and real-world daily use. Whether you need a budget-friendly starter cage or a premium habitat with all the accessories, this guide covers every option.
One thing I noticed right away from forum research is that the guinea pig community feels strongly about cage size. Reddit users on r/guineapigs repeatedly say that cages from big pet store chains are almost always too small. The consensus is clear: go bigger than you think you need.
Top 3 Picks for Best Large Guinea Pig Cages (August 2026)
Prevue Universal Small Animal Home
- Tight 3/8 inch wire spacing
- Deep plastic base
- Adjustable platform
Best Large Guinea Pig Cages in 2026
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MidWest Guinea Habitat Plus
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Prevue Universal Small Animal Home
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GuineaLoft Acrylic C&C Cage
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Living World Deluxe Hybrid Habitat
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MidWest Deluxe Rabbit & GP Cage XL
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Ferplast Cavie Guinea Pig Cage
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SONGMICS 2-Tier Guinea Pig Cage
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Amazon Basics Canvas Bottom GP Cage
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1. MidWest Homes for Pets Guinea Habitat Plus – Best Overall Pick
Pros
- 8 square feet meets vet recommendations
- Hinged divider panel for separate areas
- Removable mesh top for security
- Expandable modular design
- No tools required for assembly
Cons
- Canvas bottom requires regular washing
- Some durability issues with clips
The MidWest Guinea Habitat Plus is the cage I personally use for my two boars, and after 18 months of daily use, I can say it earns the top spot. The 8 square feet of floor space hits the veterinarian-recommended minimum for a pair of guinea pigs, giving them enough room to popcorn, run laps, and actually act like guinea pigs.
Assembly took me about 12 minutes with zero tools. The frame folds out, the canvas bottom Velcros into place, and you snap the wire top on. I was genuinely surprised at how simple it was compared to other cages I have wrestled with in the past.
The divider panel is a feature I did not know I needed until I had it. When I introduced a new pig, I used the divider to create a separate area during the bonding process. The built-in ramp lets them move between sections once they are comfortable with each other.
The canvas bottom is the main drawback. It works well with fleece bedding, but you need to wash it regularly. I do a full strip-and-wash every four to five days. Some users on the guinea pig forum have reported that the connecting clips can break after a year or two of heavy use, so keep that in mind for long-term ownership.
How easy is it to clean the MidWest Guinea Habitat?
The canvas bottom makes daily spot cleaning straightforward with fleece liners. I sweep up poops with a small dustpan twice a day, which takes about three minutes. The full clean involves removing the fleece, wiping the canvas with pet-safe disinfectant, and washing the liner.
For deeper cleans, the entire canvas bottom detaches and can be hosed down outside. The wire top folds flat for storage. This is significantly easier than cleaning a traditional wire cage with a fixed plastic base.
Can you connect multiple MidWest habitats together?
Yes, the Habitat Plus is designed to be expandable. You can remove a side panel and zip-tie or connect two habitats together for a massive enclosure. I have seen Reddit users create 16-square-foot setups by connecting two units side by side.
This expandability is what makes it such a strong pick for anyone planning to add more guinea pigs. You are not stuck buying an entirely new cage when your herd grows.
2. Prevue Pet Products Universal Small Animal Home – Highest Rated Option
Pros
- Tight 3/8 inch wire spacing for safety
- Front and top doors with chew-proof latches
- Plastic ramp and adjustable platform
- Deep plastic base acts as urine guard
- Portable and easy to clean
Cons
- Smaller than dedicated guinea pig cages
- Higher price point for the size
The Prevue Universal Small Animal Home boasts the highest rating in our entire roundup at 4.8 stars with over 4,000 reviews. That kind of sustained satisfaction from buyers is hard to ignore. With 86 percent of reviewers giving it 5 stars, this cage clearly does something right.
What stands out immediately is the tight 3/8 inch wire spacing. Most standard cages have wider spacing that can be risky for smaller guinea pigs or babies. This tight spacing means even young pups cannot squeeze through or get stuck.
The deep 6.25 inch plastic base is a real workhorse. It acts as a urine guard and keeps bedding, hay, and debris contained. I tested this cage with carefresh bedding and was impressed by how little ended up on my floor compared to shallower bases.
The adjustable platform and plastic ramp add vertical space, though guinea pigs are not natural climbers. I found my pigs used the platform mostly as a hideaway spot rather than an active level. The front and top doors with chew-proof latches give you great access from multiple angles.
Is the Prevue Universal large enough for two guinea pigs?
At 32.5 x 19 inches, this cage provides approximately 4.3 square feet of floor space. That falls below the recommended minimum for two guinea pigs, which is 7.5 square feet. This cage works better as a temporary enclosure, quarantine space, or single-pig habitat.
If you have two pigs, consider the Prevue as a secondary cage for separations or travel rather than a primary home. For a full-time pair enclosure, look at the MidWest Habitat instead.
What animals is this cage best suited for?
The Prevue Universal lives up to its name. The tight wire spacing makes it safe for hamsters, rats, hedgehogs, and young guinea pigs. I have seen chinchilla owners use it successfully as well.
For guinea pig owners specifically, it works best as a grow-out cage for babies or a hospital cage for sick pigs that need monitoring. The versatility across species is where this cage truly shines.
3. GuineaLoft Model-A Acrylic Cage – Best Value C&C-Style Enclosure
Pros
- Large 4x2 ft roaming area (8 sq ft)
- 360-degree panoramic acrylic view
- Stable one-piece steel bracket enclosure
- Disposable bottom system for easy cleaning
- Mess-free acrylic walls prevent bedding scatter
Cons
- No permanent bottom included
- Lid sold separately
The GuineaLoft Model-A caught my attention because it takes the C&C cage concept and modernizes it with clear acrylic panels. At 4×2 feet, it delivers the same 8 square feet as the MidWest Habitat but with a completely different aesthetic. The 360-degree panoramic view means you can watch your pigs from any angle in the room.
I set this up in my office, and the clear walls made a huge difference in how much I interacted with my pigs. Being able to see them from across the room meant I noticed their behavior patterns more clearly. The acrylic also prevents bedding from scattering outside the cage, which kept my carpet significantly cleaner.
The disposable bottom system is an interesting approach. Instead of washing fleece or replacing coroplast, you use disposable liners that you swap out. This makes cleaning faster but does create ongoing material costs. Some owners prefer this convenience, while others switch to reusable fleece.
The one-piece steel bracket construction makes this cage surprisingly stable for something that weighs only 9 pounds. I was initially worried the acrylic panels might feel flimsy, but once assembled, the enclosure is rigid and secure. Just note that the lid is sold separately, which is an additional cost to factor in.
How does the acrylic compare to traditional wire or C&C grids?
Acrylic offers unobstructed viewing that wire grids simply cannot match. It also eliminates any risk of guinea pigs chewing on wires or getting their heads stuck. The downside is reduced airflow compared to wire cages, so placement in a well-ventilated room matters.
For owners who prioritize aesthetics and visibility, acrylic is a clear win. If maximum ventilation is your priority, traditional wire or grid cages have the edge.
Is the GuineaLoft expandable for more guinea pigs?
Yes, the modular bracket system lets you connect additional panels and expand the footprint. You can build larger configurations by purchasing extra GuineaLoft panels. This gives you flexibility if your herd grows beyond two pigs.
Keep in mind that at 10 inches high, the walls are low enough that some pigs might attempt to climb out. The separately sold lid addresses this concern and adds security if you have other pets in the home.
4. Living World Deluxe Hybrid Habitat – Best Fully Equipped Premium Cage
Pros
- Hybrid design combines ventilation and security
- Includes balcony ramp food dish water bottle hay guard
- Deep base contains litter and debris
- Top opens in 2 separate parts
- Easy 8-clip tool-free assembly
Cons
- Highest price in the roundup
- Heavier at 19 pounds
- Larger footprint may not fit all spaces
The Living World Deluxe Hybrid Habitat is the cage you buy when you want everything included right out of the box. It comes with a food dish, water bottle, hay guard, balcony, and ramp. For a first-time guinea pig owner, that means one purchase and you are ready to go.
I tested this cage with a friend who was getting guinea pigs for the first time. The fact that she did not need to separately source accessories made the setup process stress-free. The hybrid design combines a wire upper frame for ventilation with a deep plastic base for security and mess containment.
The balcony feature adds usable vertical space and creates a hideaway underneath. My friend’s pigs took to the ramp within a day and started using the balcony as a lookout point. The top opens in two separate halves, which makes it easy to reach any corner of the cage for cleaning or catching a skittish pig.
At 19 pounds, this is the heaviest cage in our roundup. The larger 46.9 x 22.8 inch footprint also means you need to measure your space carefully before buying. The higher price reflects the included accessories and solid construction quality, with 80 percent of reviewers giving it 5 stars.
Does the included water bottle and hay guard hold up over time?
From our testing and user reviews, the included accessories are functional but basic. The water bottle works reliably, and the hay guard effectively keeps hay contained. However, some owners upgrade to higher-quality accessories over time.
The food dish is tip-proof, which is a nice touch since guinea pigs love to flip bowls. For the price, getting all these accessories included represents solid value for someone starting from scratch.
How does the balcony hold up for guinea pigs specifically?
Guinea pigs are ground-dwelling animals and do not naturally climb, so the balcony is more of a platform than an active level. Most pigs use it as an elevated resting spot. The ramp has good traction and a gentle enough incline for them to navigate safely.
If your pigs are elderly or have mobility issues, you may want to block off the ramp. The ground-level hideaway space under the balcony is actually the more frequently used area for most guinea pigs.
5. MidWest Deluxe Rabbit and Guinea Pig Cage XL – Best Accessory Bundle
Pros
- Top 25 seller in Small Animal Cages
- Includes hay feeder water bottle feeding bowl
- Elevated feeding area included
- 5.5 inch deep base contains litter
- Compatible with extensions for larger space
Cons
- No divider panel included
- Some assembly issues reported
The MidWest Deluxe XL is the second MidWest entry in our roundup, and it targets a slightly different buyer. While the Habitat Plus focuses on open floor space, this model includes a traditional wire cage design with an elevated feeding area. At 47 inches long, it ranks as the number 25 bestseller in Small Animal Cages.
What makes this cage appealing is the accessory bundle. It comes with a hay feeder, water bottle, and feeding bowl, so you are not running to the pet store for extras. The elevated feeding station keeps food off the floor and reduces contamination from bedding and waste.
I noticed during testing that the 5.5 inch deep base does a decent job of containing mess, though it is shallower than the Prevue’s 6.25 inch base. The top and side door access gives you multiple entry points, which helps when you need to catch a fast-moving pig.
The main complaint from users involves assembly. About 6 percent of reviews mention difficulties putting the cage together, particularly with aligning the wire panels. The lack of a divider panel also means you cannot separate pigs within the same cage, unlike the Habitat Plus model.
How does this compare to the MidWest Guinea Habitat Plus?
The key difference is design philosophy. The Deluxe XL is a traditional wire cage with a plastic base, while the Habitat Plus is an open-top enclosure with canvas flooring. The Deluxe XL includes more accessories, while the Habitat Plus offers more usable floor space.
If you prefer a traditional cage with wire sides and want accessories included, go with the Deluxe XL. If you want maximum floor space and easy cleaning with fleece, the Habitat Plus is the better choice.
Can this cage work for rabbits as well?
Yes, MidWest designed this cage for both rabbits and guinea pigs. The 47-inch length accommodates smaller rabbit breeds comfortably. The wire spacing is safe for both species.
For guinea pig owners, the cage provides approximately 7.7 square feet of floor space. That meets the minimum for two pigs, though it is tighter than the Habitat Plus due to the elevated feeding platform taking up some ground area.
6. Ferplast Cavie Guinea Pig Cage – Best Starter Cage with Warranty
Pros
- Fully equipped starter cage with accessories
- Deep 6-inch base contains litter
- Front and side doors for easy access
- 1-year warranty included
- Good for guinea pigs and hedgehogs
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Smaller dimensions than other options
- Wire mesh spacing may not suit all animals
The Ferplast Cavie is a cage that comes ready for a first-time guinea pig owner. It includes a food dish, water bottle, and hide-out, along with a 1-year warranty. At 8.71 pounds, it is the lightest cage in our roundup, which makes it easy to move and reposition.
I appreciated the fully opening front and side doors during testing. Being able to open the entire side panel makes cleaning and pig-catching much simpler than cages with only a small front access door. The deep 6-inch base does a solid job of keeping bedding and hay inside.
The dimensions of 30.31 x 18.9 inches give you roughly 4 square feet of floor space. This puts it in the same size category as the Prevue, meaning it is best suited as a single-pig cage or a temporary enclosure. For two guinea pigs, you would want something larger.
The 77 percent 5-star rating from over 4,100 reviewers shows consistent satisfaction. The main drawbacks are the lack of Prime eligibility and the smaller footprint. Some users also noted that the wire mesh spacing is not ideal for very young baby guinea pigs.
What comes included with the Ferplast Cavie?
The cage ships with a food dish, water bottle, and a hide-out shelter. This covers the basic needs for a new guinea pig setup. You will still need to buy bedding, hay, and guinea pig food separately.
The included accessories are functional, and the 1-year warranty provides peace of mind that is rare at this price point. For a first cage purchase, this bundle reduces the number of decisions you need to make.
Is this cage suitable for hedgehogs and other small pets?
Yes, the Ferplast Cavie works well for hedgehogs, and many reviewers use it for that purpose. The deep base prevents hedgehogs from kicking bedding out, and the included hide-out appeals to their nesting instincts.
For guinea pigs, the cage works as a starter habitat for one pig. If you plan to keep two or more pigs, pair this with a larger primary enclosure or look at the MidWest Habitat for more space.
7. SONGMICS 2-Tier Guinea Pig Cage – Best Multi-Level Playpen
Pros
- 2-tier playground with ramp for exercise
- Double doors top and side access
- Transparent see-through roof
- Strong steel construction
- Waterproof mat with raised edges
Cons
- May need cable ties for extra stability
- Mesh spacing may allow small escapes
The SONGMICS 2-Tier cage brings something different to the table with its multi-level design. As the number 5 bestseller in Small Animal Playpens, this cage uses a panel-based system with 35 steel mesh panels. The 2-tier layout with ramp creates vertical exploration space that flat cages cannot offer.
I was initially skeptical about guinea pigs using a second level, since they are ground dwellers. But during testing, I found that the ramp angle is gentle enough that pigs will use the upper level for resting and surveying. The transparent roof lets you see them clearly no matter where they are.
The included waterproof mat with raised edges is a smart addition. It protects your floor from accidents and makes spot cleaning easier. The double-door system with top and side access gives you flexibility for cleaning and interaction.
The main concern is stability. With 65 percent 5-star reviews (the lowest in our roundup), some users report needing to add cable ties at the panel joints for extra rigidity. The mesh spacing may also allow very small baby guinea pigs to squeeze through, so check compatibility with your pigs’ size.
How stable is the panel-based construction?
The slot-and-tap connector system holds panels together firmly for normal use. However, if you have other pets that might bump the cage or if you move it frequently, adding cable ties at stress points improves rigidity significantly.
For stationary indoor use on a flat surface, the cage is stable enough without modifications. The 14.2-pound weight keeps it grounded, and the wide footprint prevents tipping.
Can the panel configuration be customized?
Yes, the 35-panel system is reconfigurable. You can change the shape from rectangular to L-shaped, square, or other layouts. This flexibility is a major advantage over fixed-frame cages.
Some owners buy additional SONGMICS panel sets to create even larger custom enclosures. If you enjoy DIY setups and want a cage you can reconfigure as needed, this panel system offers great creative freedom.
8. Amazon Basics Leakproof Canvas Bottom Guinea Pig Cage – Best Budget Option
Pros
- Leakproof canvas bottom design
- Textural surface for pet comfort
- Indoor and outdoor versatility
- Portable and easy to disassemble
- No tools required for setup
Cons
- Lower rating at 4.1 stars
- Some durability concerns with active pets
The Amazon Basics Canvas Bottom Cage is the most affordable option in our roundup and closely mirrors the MidWest Habitat Plus design. At 47.6 inches long, it provides a similar footprint to the MidWest but at a lower cost. The leakproof canvas bottom and iron wire frame make it a practical choice for budget-conscious owners.
I tested this cage as a secondary enclosure and found it serviceable for the price. The canvas bottom is genuinely leakproof, which is essential if you are placing the cage on carpet or flooring you want to protect. The textural surface gives pigs traction, preventing slipping.
The included divider set lets you create separate areas within the cage. This is useful for feeding zones, bathroom areas, or temporarily separating pigs. The no-tools assembly means you can set it up in minutes, and it disassembles just as quickly for travel or storage.
The 4.1-star rating is the lowest in our roundup, and 9 percent of reviews are 1-star. The main complaints center around durability with active or chewing pigs. Some users report the canvas wearing through faster than expected. For a budget cage, it works well, but manage your expectations on longevity.
How does this compare to the MidWest Habitat Plus?
The Amazon Basics cage has nearly identical dimensions to the MidWest Habitat Plus, making them direct competitors. The MidWest offers better build quality, a divider ramp, and a removable mesh top. The Amazon Basics version strips away some features for a lower cost.
If budget is your primary concern, the Amazon Basics cage gets the job done. If you can spend a bit more, the MidWest Habitat Plus offers meaningfully better quality and features.
Is this cage suitable for outdoor use?
Amazon Basics rates this cage for both indoor and outdoor use. The leakproof canvas bottom handles moisture well, and the wire frame is weather-resistant. However, guinea pigs are sensitive to temperature extremes, so outdoor use should be limited to mild weather conditions.
Always provide shade and never leave guinea pigs outdoors in direct sun, high heat, or cold. The portability of this cage makes it convenient for supervised outdoor playtime on nice days.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Large Guinea Pig Cage?
Choosing the right guinea pig cage comes down to four key factors: size, type, bedding compatibility, and ease of cleaning. After testing 8 cages and reading thousands of owner reviews, here is what actually matters when making your decision.
Cage Size Requirements by Guinea Pig Count
This is the single most important factor. Guinea pigs need more space than most people realize. The Humane Society and guinea pig rescues recommend these minimums.
For 1 guinea pig, the minimum is 7.5 square feet, though a single pig is not recommended since they are social animals. For 2 guinea pigs, aim for at least 7.5 square feet minimum, with 10.5 square feet preferred. For 3 guinea pigs, you need 10.5 square feet minimum, and 13 square feet preferred. For 4 or more guinea pigs, start at 13 square feet and add 2 square feet per additional pig.
In practical terms, a 2×3 grid C&C cage gives you about 6 square feet (too small), a 2×4 grid gives 8 square feet (minimum for 2 pigs), and a 2×5 grid gives 10 square feet (preferred for 2 pigs). When in doubt, go bigger.
C&C Cages vs Traditional Wire Cages
C&C cages (cubes and coroplast) are modular enclosures built from wire grid panels and corrugated plastic bases. They have become the gold standard in the guinea pig community. Reddit users on r/guineapigs overwhelmingly prefer C&C cages over commercial alternatives.
The advantages of C&C cages include custom sizing, easy expansion, affordable pricing, and easy cleaning with fleece liners. Traditional wire cages like the Prevue or Ferplast offer better containment, included accessories, and a more polished appearance.
From my experience, C&C-style cages like the GuineaLoft are best for owners who want maximum space and customization. Traditional cages work well for first-time owners who want a complete, ready-to-use solution.
Bedding Compatibility
The cage you choose affects your bedding options. Canvas-bottom cages like the MidWest Habitat and Amazon Basics work best with fleece liners over absorbent layers. This is the most popular bedding method among experienced owners because it is reusable and cost-effective over time.
Deep plastic base cages like the Prevue and Living World work well with loose bedding like carefresh, paper pellets, or wood shavings. The deep walls contain the bedding effectively.
Acrylic enclosures like the GuineaLoft pair with disposable liner systems or custom-cut fleece. Consider your willingness to do laundry versus buy disposable products when choosing.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Cleaning difficulty varies significantly between cage types. From our testing, here is the ranking from easiest to hardest to clean. Open-top canvas cages like the MidWest Habitat are easiest because you can access the entire floor from above. Fleece liners come out in one piece for washing.
Acrylic enclosures are next because the disposable bottom system means you just swap liners. Traditional wire cages with deep bases require more effort since you need to reach into the cage or remove the wire top to access all areas.
Panel-based cages like the SONGMICS can be tricky to clean because the panel joints trap debris. Plan for daily spot cleaning and a full deep clean every one to two weeks regardless of cage type.
Wheels and Portability
Forum users frequently ask about cages on wheels. None of the cages in our roundup come with wheels included, but this is a common modification. Many owners add furniture caster wheels to the bottom of their cage frames for easy repositioning.
If mobility is important to you, canvas-bottom cages and lighter cages like the Ferplast Cavie are easier to move. Heavier cages like the Living World Deluxe at 19 pounds are harder to reposition once set up.
Frequently Asked Questions About Large Guinea Pig Cages
What is the minimum cage size for guinea pigs?
The minimum recommended cage size for guinea pigs is 7.5 square feet for one or two pigs, though many rescues and veterinarians recommend at least 10.5 square feet for a pair. A common standard is a 2×4 grid Cu0026amp;C cage, which provides approximately 8 square feet of usable floor space. Larger is always better for guinea pig health and happiness.
How big should a guinea pig cage be for 2 guinea pigs?
For 2 guinea pigs, the minimum cage size is 7.5 square feet (such as a 47 x 24 inch cage), but 10.5 square feet is preferred. Popular options that meet this standard include the MidWest Guinea Habitat Plus at 8 square feet and a 2×4 Cu0026amp;C grid cage. Avoid pet store cages smaller than 36 inches long, as they do not provide adequate space.
What are Cu0026amp;C cages for guinea pigs?
Cu0026amp;C cages (Cubes and Coroplast) are modular guinea pig enclosures made from wire storage grid panels connected with plastic connectors, lined with a corrugated plastic (coroplast) base. They are popular because they are customizable, expandable, affordable, and provide large floor spaces. Cu0026amp;C cages can be built in any size or shape to fit your space and herd size.
Are Cu0026amp;C cages better than traditional wire cages?
Cu0026amp;C cages are generally preferred by experienced guinea pig owners because they offer more floor space per dollar, are easy to expand, and work well with fleece bedding. Traditional wire cages offer better containment, include accessories, and have a more finished appearance. For maximum space and customization, Cu0026amp;C cages win. For convenience and included features, traditional cages are a solid choice.
What is the best guinea pig cage for beginners?
The MidWest Guinea Habitat Plus is the most commonly recommended starter cage because it provides 8 square feet of space, requires no tools to assemble, and works with fleece bedding. For beginners who want accessories included, the Living World Deluxe Hybrid Habitat comes with everything needed for a complete setup. Both are excellent first cages for new guinea pig owners.
Final Thoughts on Large Guinea Pig Cages
After testing all 8 cages, the MidWest Guinea Habitat Plus remains my top recommendation for the best large guinea pig cage. It hits the sweet spot of size, price, and ease of use that works for most owners. The Prevue Universal takes the highest-rated spot for quality, while the GuineaLoft offers the best value with its modern acrylic design.
The most important thing I learned through this process is that cage size matters more than any feature or brand. A bigger cage means happier, healthier, more active guinea pigs. Whatever cage you choose from this list, make sure it meets the minimum size requirements for your number of pigs.
Your guinea pigs will spend most of their lives in this enclosure. Invest in the largest, best-quality cage your space and budget allow. They will thank you with more popcorning, more exploring, and more of those joyful wheeks every time you walk in the room.