As a proud guinea pig owner, I’ve learned that housing my little ones properly is one of the best decisions I’ve made. Keeping them indoors not only allows me to interact with them daily but also gives them a safe, comfy space to live in.
I currently house my guinea pigs in two separate C&C (Cubes and Coroplast) cages, one for the girls and another for the boys and I couldn’t be happier with my setup.
Today, I want to share the benefits of these cages and why they’ve become my go-to choice over traditional hutches.
What are C&C Cages?
C&C cages are modular, customisable guinea pig enclosures made with wire grids and a solid, easy-to-clean base (usually Coroplast). The beauty of these cages is that they can be designed to fit any space and adapted as your pets grow or your needs change. The design is versatile, allowing you to create a larger space and ensure your guinea pigs have plenty of room to run, explore, and relax.
Benefits of C&C Cages:
Spacious Living Space:
C&C cages are known for their expansive floor plans. Unlike traditional hutches, which can often be cramped, these cages offer more square footage for guinea pigs to roam. This is especially important because guinea pigs need space to move around and exercise. Keeping them indoors in these large cages means they can thrive in a comfortable environment.
Easy to Clean:
The removable trays make cleaning the C&C cages a breeze. I can easily wipe down the Coroplast base and change bedding without hassle. Traditional hutches, on the other hand, can be tricky to clean, especially when they're elevated off the ground and have narrow doors. I can quickly and easily clean the cages multiple times a week without the dreaded clean out day feels you get with wood shaving and hutches.
Customisation:
I love how I can tailor the cages to suit my guinea pigs' needs. Want to add more space? You can simply expand the cage by adding more grids. Need to make a comfy space for them to snuggle in? A blanket or towel on the bottom does the trick. The flexibility to rearrange the cage is a huge advantage over the fixed design of a traditional hutch. There is so much variety out there when it comes to decorating with your favorite blankets and beds with themes and colours galore its not just a guinea pig home its an art piece!
Visibility and Interaction:
Since my C&C cages are indoors, I get to see my guinea pigs all the time. They’re always at the heart of the family, and I love how easy it is to check in on them, pet them, and interact throughout the day. Unlike outdoor hutches, where guinea pigs are often isolated, C&C cages bring your pets into the fold of family life. With my little cherubs they have learnt the sound of a particular squeaky floorboard i stand on when approaching them and they come out from their cosy beds wheeking away asking for treats and veggies...its so cute!
Affordable and DIY-Friendly:
Building a C&C cage can be much more affordable than purchasing a traditional hutch, especially when considering the size and quality of the materials. Plus, if you’re a DIY enthusiast, you can easily customize and expand your cages as needed, making them a long-term investment.
Cons of C&C Cages:
Size Requirement:
C&C cages can take up a fair bit of space, especially if you're housing multiple guinea pigs. While this is great for the guinea pigs, it may not be ideal for people living in smaller homes or apartments. Planning where to put the cage is key! However, they can be stackable, just depends if you have the joints of a gymnast to get under there to clean the bottom enclosure!
Wire Grids Can Be Wobbly:
While C&C cages are customisable, the wire grids can sometimes be a little wobbly, especially if they’re not secured properly. I’ve found that adding extra support and cable ties, making sure everything is tightly connected helps prevent this.
Chewing Danger:
Guinea pigs love to chew, and while the Coroplast base is chew-resistant, the wire grids are not. Some guinea pigs might chew on the grids, which can be a little frustrating and might damage the cage over time. It’s something to watch out for, but it’s a manageable issue.
Why I Prefer C&C Cages Over Traditional Hutches:
While traditional hutches may still be a good option for some guinea pig owners, especially those who have outdoor setups, I personally prefer the C&C cages. The larger space, ease of cleaning, and the ability to keep my guinea pigs inside and close to the family make these cages the ideal choice for my pets.
Whether you’re a new guinea pig parent or a seasoned expert, C&C cages offer a comfortable and flexible way to house your furry friends. The ability to easily clean, expand, and personalise the setup makes it a game-changer in guinea pig care. Keeping my guinea pigs inside has not only strengthened our bond but has also ensured they live in a cozy, safe environment.
The C&C set up also packs pretty small so it was easy for me to fit it in the van when we moved so i didn't have to compromise or lose out on what i already had which is also a win for me when space to move out of the country was at a premium!
Do you have a C&C cage? Or are you a traditionalist when it comes to housing your piggies?