Outdoor Accommodation

If thinking about keeping guinea pigs outdoors, there can be many benefits but you need to consider whether you have a suitable, safe space outside.  Do you have an area outside where you can ensure predators will not be able to break into guinea pig accommodation? Equally, accommodation needs to be escape-proof from within. 'Outside' guinea pigs are obviously exposed to the elements such as temperature extremes, sun, rain and wind. You need to ensure this can be controlled or mitigated. Rain and exposed soil can quickly become mud, this can be a real problem for long-haired individuals.

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There may be eating hazards in your garden. Check these links to help you identify hazards: pdsa advice and woodgreen advice.

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Fly strike is a real risk. Guinea pig body condition should be observed daily anyway, but be aware that during peak fly strike season, bottoms need checking for any urine or faecal staining, as this encourages flies to land. During the summer, fly numbers increase as they become more active. Flies quickly lay eggs on soiled bedding or hair, maggots emerge which  burrow into moist places like bottoms or open sores. Guinea pigs who struggle to keep themselves clean due to old age, bladder or gut issues, arthritis, or dental issues are most at risk. 

Temperature extremes and firework risk: The RSPCA (England) states that temperatures above 26°C can cause heatstroke; below 15°C can cause them to become chilled. The risk will depend on how your guinea pigs are housed, how well temperature can be controlled, or in the case of fireworks, to what extent loud bangs or light flashes can be mitigated in their accommodation. Guinea pigs can be very scared of fireworks, this can even be fatal. Depending on whether your guinea pigs are usually indoors or outdoors, you can do the following to help your piggies. Consider bringing pets inside - see below. Partly cover enclosures. Close curtains. Put on the television, radio, talk in a calm manner - I read to my piggies. Classic FM and the RSPCA have partnered to provide a Pet Playlist to help pets. Provide plenty of bedding, lots of hay, so piggies can tunnel into the hay to feel safer and it may reduce noise. You can ask your vet about calming products.

If you need to bring your piggies inside due to significant temperature drops, heatstroke risk, or fireworks, speak to your vet about the best way/time to do this because sudden environmental changes can be stressful for guinea pigs. Be aware that, as prey animals, guinea pigs find unfamiliar environments, sights, sounds and smells stressful so try and normalise their temporary indoor home as much as possible - keep them somewhere safe and quiet. 'Burgess Excel Guinea Pig Awareness Week' provides advice for cold and hot weather. Cooling aids include ice pods, see here.