Finding the right cage for your guinea pig is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as an owner. Your guinea pig will spend most of their time in their cage, so it needs to be as spacious and safe as possible to create a great environment. Finding the right cage for your guinea pig can be difficult with all the available options. This guide breaks down the best guinea pig cages based on size, functionality, ease of cleaning, and price that can suit all of your needs.
The bigger the cage, the better. Guinea pigs thrive in large spaces, especially when they are in pairs and/or groups. They need enough space to stay active. It is not only for their physical health but also mental. Guinea pigs are active animals that love to run and explore their surroundings. Keeping them in a small cage hinders that. That’s why the bigger the cage, the better.
The size of the cage also depends on the number of guinea pigs you have. Always have a larger enclosure to have enough space for social interaction and to avoid conflict between your pets.
To learn the other aspects of setting up your very first cage, refer to this guide: [How to Set Up a Guinea Pig Cage].
Top Brands
This section compares the major guinea pig cage brands and what each one offers.
Cagetopia: Known for premium quality materials and excellent customer service. Prices typically range from $100–$300+ depending on size. Best for owners who want the highest overall quality.
The Guinea Pig Cage Company: Offers easy-to-assemble cages with a variety of add-ons and customization options.
GuineaDad: Provides high-quality products designed specifically for guinea pigs. Their cages are sturdy and safe, but their most popular item is their premium fleece liner, which allows for comfortable burrowing.
Kavee: Produces a wide range of guinea pig accessories and cages. While their accessories are solid, their cages tend to be overpriced for the quality offered and feature shorter coroplast bases compared to other brands. They are not the top recommendation.
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C&C Cages – The Gold Standard
C&C Cages are the undisputed best option for guinea pigs among the community. These cages, which stand for “Cubes & Coroplast,” are the gold standard for those seeking the best possible balance between flexibility and structure. C&C cages are composed of the ‘cubes,’ which are the metal grids that form the cage’s walls, and the ‘coroplast,’ which serves as the waterproof base of the cage. Each metal grid is held through 4-way connectors strong enough to connect and hold the grids together to form the cage structure.
C&C Cages are not pre-made, which means they must be assembled independently. However, this also allows for easy customization and design.
There are plenty of brands with their own C&C cages. Like most things, quality varies depending on the brand you choose to purchase from. While these types of cages all have the same structure and ‘format,’ some brands use cheaper coroplast and grids with a flimsier material that is not the safest for pets nearby. Always aim for the better quality brands, such as Cagetopia, GuineaDad, or The Guinea Pig Company. These brands are known for their durability and safety, even if they come at a slightly higher price.
Cagetopia specifically is known for offering premium quality C&C cages and is associated with the creation and popularization of the original C&C cage for guinea pigs. Their cages can only be found on the [Cagetopia] website.
The creation of C&C cages is a rather recent development that has improved the lives of many pets in a market that had been filled with small cages. Here, we will discuss two types: The Traditional Grid Cage and the Transparent Cage C&C Cages.
Quality Factors
Every C&C cage can look the same, but there are small differences that can drastically alter the quality.
The size of the openings in the grids is important. The standard size for all C&C grids is 14″ X 14″ (9 squares across and 9 squares down). This size keeps the openings small enough to prevent guinea pigs from getting stuck while still allowing proper airflow. Although uncommon, guinea pigs can get trapped in grids with openings that are too large. The size of the openings should be no larger than 1.5 inches (3.8 cm).
Each brand can also have different grid thicknesses and sizes. If you are looking to expand a C&C cage, it is best to buy from the same brand or from one with the same specifications. Otherwise, the connectors and panels may not fit together properly. If you have panels that do not quite fit, they can always be reinforced with zip-ties.
TIP: For extra security, reinforce the grid with zip ties. This helps with strength and stability.
The height of the coroplast base is another indicator. Guinea pigs tend to chew on the edges. This is generally safe since the coroplast is non-toxic; however, this also damages your cage. Holes will start appearing on the base, which may require a replacement. To discourage this behavior, it is best to find a base with high walls or create a ‘block,’ such as cardboard or folded cloth, to cover any exposed edges. It depends on your guinea pig, but the ideal height is between 6 to 8 inches.
Traditional C&C Grid Cage
This is the original and standard C&C Cage. It uses metal wire grids with small openings evenly spaced for ventilation. The intersecting bars are great for attaching accessories such as water bottles, hanging chew toys. It comes with a waterproof coroplast base that is used to catch urine and contain bedding.
The coroplast base must be durable enough to keep the wire grids stable. Just like with the grids, the coroplast base is also highly modifiable. It is free to be cut and folded to create a base that fits your specific C&C cage design and dimensions.
+ Highly Customizable and Expandable
+ Excellent Ventilation
+ Easy to Clean
+ Good Long-Term Value
– Requires Assembly
– High Initial Costs
– Coroplast Base can Wear Down
Recommendations
While specialized guinea pig brands offer excellent C&C cages, Amazon provides convenient access to quality options with fast shipping and customer reviews to help guide your decision. Many Amazon available C&C cages have good quality and lower prices, making them an attractive choice for first-time builders and experienced owners alike.
Viscoo C&C Metal Grid Cage
This cage by Viscoo is highly rated among reviews for its durability and thick grid construction. The grids have a rectangular rather than square design with openings small enough to prevent safety issues. The cage comes with a coroplast base and transparent panels for added variety.
Advantages
Includes a Coroplast Base
Contains 8 Transparent Panels and a Door Panel
Includes Zip Ties & Wooden Mallet
Disadvantages
Connectors may be prone to breaking
Lower Coroplast Base (4.7 Inches)
Product Specifications:
Grid Size: 14″ x 14″
Material: Metal Grids & Coroplast Base
Number of Panels: 24/32/41 Grid Panels (Several Options)
Includes: Zip ties, Plastic Mallet, Connectors, Ramp (Only with 41 Grid Option)
Price Range: $40 – $60
The Viscoo panels are recommended for those searching for an easier assembly that already contains all the needed components. It contains several ‘size’ options from 24 to 41 panels for those who need different-sized cages. Make sure to choose the right option based on the number of guinea pigs you own (reference the size chart above). One of the standout features is the inclusion of 8 transparent panels, which can be used to add versatility to their setup later. The coroplast base is included, which saves you the hassle of sourcing one separately, though it is on the lower side at around 4-5 inches tall. This means guinea pigs who are enthusiastic chewers may nibble the edges over time.
The grid construction is sturdy and thick, with connectors that hold well under normal use. However, some reviewers report that connectors can crack with repeated assembly and disassembly, so reinforcing key joints with zip ties is a smart precaution.
Songmics C&C Metal Grid Cage
This C&C cage by Songmics is best suited for owners who want full customization and do not mind purchasing a coroplast base separately. This cage contains enough panels to create a spacious cage for multiple guinea pigs. The rectangular openings are small enough to meet safety standards while providing excellent airflow.
Advantages
Contains Zip Ties & Plastic Mallet
Rounded Edges to prevent injury
Disadvantages
Does not come with a coroplast base. It must be bought separately
Does not include a door panel
Product Specifications:
Grid Size: 14″ x 14″
Material: Metal Grids only (no base or door included)
Number of Panels: 36 Metal Grid Panels
Includes: Zip Ties, Plastic Mallet, Connectors
Price Range: $40 – $60
The Songmics panels are ideal if you’re building a custom C&C cage from scratch. These grids are true 14-inch panels, making them larger than Amazon Basics grids and perfect for creating properly sized C&C cages. However, keep in mind that this product does not include a coroplast base, so you’ll need to purchase or create one separately. This adds extra cost and effort, but gives you complete control over your cage design. These panels are also great for building lofts, ramps, and multi-level setups.
It is best for those who want full design control and experienced guinea pig owners building custom multi-level setups or expanding existing cages.
Transparent C&C Cage
Transparent cages are a type of C&C cage that uses clear transparent panels instead of the more common grid style. It uses the same connectors as any C&C cage. This variation may be preferred for those seeking a more visible view of their pets.
However, some people have reported issues with the stability regarding clear panels. If not properly designed, they can be prone to detaching or collapsing.
As they use the same connectors, it is possible to connect a transparent cage with a traditional grid C&C cage. However, the size is important. If both cages were not made by the same brand, one panel may be taller than the other. If so, you would need to tie the panels together. The connectors as well may not fit properly. Always look at the product dimensions and the brand if you are considering using two different types of cage panels.
Personally, a great disadvantage for me was hanging space. With a transparent panel, you can only hang items like water bottles from the very top. A grid panel allows you to hang it from any bar. Transparent cages also do not come with a coroplast base. Instead, you are given smaller panels to be used as a floor. While this does create a stable floor for your pets, it is not waterproof and could lead to items such as hay or droppings getting stuck in between the cracks.
+ Fully Transparent Design for Maximum Visibility
+ Customizable and Expandable
+ Easy to Clean
+ Easy to Monitor Guinea Pigs
– Requires Assembly
– Limited Hanging Space for Accessories
– May be less Stable than Grid Panels if not Reinforced
– No Coroplast Base
Recommendations
Viscoo C&C Transparent Cage
Viscoo’s transparent cage offers a budget-friendly entry point into clear-panel cages with rounded safety edges.
Advantages
Transparent Design
Rounded Edges for Safety
Affordable Price Point
Disadvantages
Contains fewer Panels
Has no Coroplast Base Included
Product Specifications:
Grid Size: 14″ x 14″ transparent panels
Material: Clear plastic panels
Number of Panels: 12 Wall Panels & 12 Floor Panels
Includes: Connectors, zip ties
Price Range: $35 to $40
The Viscoo transparent cage is an affordable, clear-panel option. With 12 wall panels and 12 floor panels, you can build a basic 2-guinea pig enclosure (approximately 7.5 square feet). This cage works best as a starter transparent setup or as an add-on to an existing traditional grid cage. The rounded edges on the connectors are a nice safety touch that prevents sharp corners. However, the lack of a coroplast base means additional shopping, and the smaller panel count limits your design options.
Note: It comes with a gridded door panel if you select “20 Panels”
It is best for those on a budget who want to try transparent panels, or those adding a small transparent section to an existing grid cage.
Songmics C&C Transparent Cage
The Songmics transparent option provides more panels for larger or more complex cage designs.
Advantages
More Panels for Larger Designs (36 panels vs Viscoo’s 24)
Rounded Edges for Safety
Disadvantages
Has no Coroplast Base or Door Panel Included
Product Specifications:
Grid Size: 14″ x 14″ transparent panels
Material: Clear plastic panels
Number of Panels:
Includes: Connectors, zip ties
Price Range: $25 – $65
The Songmics transparent cage is the better choice if you’re committed to building a larger transparent enclosure or want extra panels for future expansion. With 36 panels, you can comfortably house 3-4 guinea pigs or create larger designs. The price varies significantly depending on the option selected. The main advantage over Viscoo is simply having more building material to work with. The panels themselves have the same stability concerns as any transparent cage, so zip-tie reinforcement at stress points is essential.
It is best for owners building large transparent cages for multiple guinea pigs, or those who want extra panels to mix transparent and traditional grid sections.
Pre-Made Cages: Limited Options
Pre-made cages have already been assembled for direct use and require no more ‘building’ aside from furnishing the cage’s interior. These are great options for those not wanting to build a cage from scratch while also providing their pet with the same benefits of C&C cages.
However, let me be honest. There are not many good pre-made cages for guinea pigs. Most are either small and overpriced. There is really only ONE I can recommend without hesitation.
Midwest Guinea Habitat
The only pre-made cage worth buying. The Midwest Habitat is a portable cage that can be set up almost immediately once it leaves the box. This cage has around 8 square feet of living space, which is convenient for two guinea pigs. It has a canvas bottom that acts the same as a coroplast base: to catch waste and offer a safe, waterproof cover for the bottom of the cage. The canvas bottom is removable and easy to clean. However, it can wear out over time (usually years) and will require a replacement.
The most unique feature of the Midwest Habitat is that it can be expanded. Unlike other pre-made cages, it is possible to connect two Midwest cages to expand. When two cages are connected, they provide approximately 16 square feet of space.
Connecting two Midwest Cages may require tools like pliers to remove certain sections. Be sure to look up a tutorial to ensure you do it properly.
+ Already Assembled
+ Includes Canvas Bottom (Washable & Replaceable)
+ Can be Expanded by Connecting Two or More Cages
– Less Customization
– Canvas Bottom wears out over Time
– Smaller than most C&C Cages (Unless Expanded)
Midwest Guinea Habitat
The Midwest Cage comes with everything: the base, walls, door, and even a removable top. It also includes a divider panel to help contain messes and prevent bedding from being dragged to other areas of the cage.
Advantages
Fully assembled out of the box
Includes canvas bottom (washable)
Access door on top for easy interaction
Disadvantages
Canvas bottom wears out over time
Smaller than most C&C setups
Wire top can limit vertical accessories
Product Specifications:
Size: 47″L x 24″W x 14″H (approximately 8 square feet)
Material: Wire cage frame with canvas bottom
Includes: Canvas bottom, divider panel
Price Range: $60 – $80
The Midwest Habitat is perfect for owners who value convenience over customization. Setup takes less than 5 minutes. Just unfold the cage, and you are done.
What About Other Brands?
Other renowned premade cages do work well, but still fall short compared to the Midwest Cage. They typically have more expensive prices and lower quality. Instead, it is always better to invest in the Midwest cage, which offers better quality and a more affordable price.
Living World Deluxe: More expensive than Midwest with similar (or smaller) sizing. Not worth the premium.
Ferplast Cages: European brand with inflated prices. Midwest offers better value.
Prevue Pet Products: Classic pet store cages that are almost universally too small. Skip them.
Coroplast Bases
If you are building a C&C cage from scratch or need to replace a worn-out base, you will need to purchase a coroplast base separately. A 4mm thick sheet is ideal for guinea pig cages—it’s sturdy enough to hold bedding and absorb urine without warping.
When creating your own base, always measure your cage dimensions carefully.
Amazon does not really sell proper coroplast sheets for building C&C cage bases, so the best places to buy them would be at local stores such as Home Depot or Lowe’s. You can also try brands such as GuineaDad or the Guinea Pig Cage Company.
Midwest Canvas Bottom Replacement
A replacement bottom for the Midwest cage. This is not the cage itself; only the canvas bottom should you ever be in need of a replacement.
Outdoor Safety & Temporary Playpens
Outdoor cages are not recommended as a viable option for a multitude of reasons. For one, guinea pigs are prey animals. That means they have several natural predators that will try to reach and harm them. Even secure cages or predator-proof designs can still leave your pets vulnerable to passing wildlife. Even if not many wild animals pass through your area, they can be attracted to guinea pigs from the scents and sounds they make. This doesn’t just include wild animals such as coyotes, but also domesticated pets such as cats or dogs.
As prey animals, guinea pigs are also prone to stress. Even when animals do not reach them, just seeing predators nearby their cage with no room to escape is a daily stressor.
The second reason is due to temperature. Guinea pigs are sensitive and feel best when the temperature is between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit (18 °C – 24 °C). When indoors, the temperature can easily be changed and is usually stable. You can not do that outdoors. Unpredictable weather can cause sudden drops or rises in temperature, and conditions like heavy rain or storms can make things even worse. Guinea pigs overheat easily and can develop respiratory infections if they are too cold or damp.
The third reason is that keeping your guinea pig outdoors greatly reduces the amount of time you spend with them. Indoor pets naturally receive more interaction because they are easier to reach and see throughout the day. Always spend at least one hour with your guinea pigs daily.
It is always worth the peace of mind knowing your guinea pig is safe indoors. Guinea pigs are pets that thrive best when kept in an indoor cage.
However, that does not mean they cannot be outside at all. Providing your guinea pig with supervised outdoor time is perfectly fine. You can use a portable playpen or a hutch with a secure lid for protection. When having guinea pigs outside, stay with them at all times.
Portable Outdoor Playpen
A portable playpen is a great way to keep your guinea pig safe when outside. This playpen comes with a zippered cover and a waterproofed bottom to contain mess. The portable design is easy to fold for storage and also open for use. The space is large enough to contain two guinea pigs temporarily.
Conclusion
Choosing the right cage for your guinea pig comes down to your priorities: space, customization, convenience, and budget.
C&C cages remain the gold standard for their flexibility and size, making them ideal for owners who want the best for their pets. If assembly isn’t your thing, the Midwest Guinea Habitat is a solid pre-made option that gets the job done.
No matter which cage you choose, remember that bigger is always better.