guinea pig hutch
Outdoor Guinea Pig Housing
Okay, no not really. Instead hutch is just a term for an outdoor guinea pig cage. I know a lot of people recommend that you not house your guinea pigs outdoors. This is something I too believe as its just harder to keep and eye on them, they are less like a member of the family, and more vulnerable to weather and animals. However, if you have considered those issues and still wish to move forward here is some information to get you started.
The first question you need to decide on is where to place the hutch. Is this going to be standalone or is it going to be placed in an existing building like your garden shed? If the hutch is standalone you will need to take steps to ensure it is properly weatherproofed as your guinea pig cannot be left wet and cold. During the winter it may be best to move the hutch indoors or to a semi indoor location like a shed. Likewise in the summer, the hutch cannot be left in an area in direct sun or likely to get warmer than say the high 70′s as guinea pigs can suffer from heat stroke.
What materials can you use to build a hutch? Weatherproof wood plywood is okay, wire mesh – although not for the flooring as your guinea pig’s legs will get caught. You will want to build the hutch up off the ground to avoid rot and the interior floor will be needed to be treated with a preservative that will protect it from urine and droppings, which contain ammonia.
Ventilation is still really important and the challenge of the outdoor hutch is balancing the need for ventilation with protection from the outdoor elements and wildlife. Basically you could make a mostly mesh wire cage with wood inserts for the door, etc that you can add when the weather turns poor. Many people leave the front door and side mesh while the remaining three sides and top are wood. Mesh inserts for windows are a good idea as cats and raccoons can be particularly crafty. Old rugs can work well as insulation just be sure not to use something like plastic tarp which will trap moisture.
To continue discussing security – make sure the door can be locked up tight. Many predators will try very hard to get inside a cage (as opposed to your guinea pigs trying to break free.) Many people recommend bolting the door and even using a padlock.
