C and C cage rusty grids

[Oakland8758]

Hi everyone,

I currently have my 2 male guinea pigs in a 6x4 c and c cage with a 1x4 loft. I want to expand the loft to a 2x4 to give them more space to get around each other when they're both up there.. To do this I of course need more grids but the problem with this is that the only grids I have were left outside in the rain for a considerable amount of time so some sides have a bit of rust on them.

I don't want to risk the boys chewing on rusty cages so won't be using them in places where my guinea pigs could reach them but instead would need them as a stand at the bottom to support the loft extension. They would therefore be in a place where the 2 of them would have no chance of chewing on any rusty grids or anything like that.

I may be overthinking but is it safe to have the grids with rust used for the cage even though they won't be chewed on or touched by my boys or should I just buy fresh new grids. I of course will give the grids a good wash and scrub just in case.

Thanks for any help, it is much appreciated.

 

[piggieminder]

I don't think it would do them any harm to use the grids in places they can't chew them. You could probably sand the rust off so there's no loose bits to drop into the cage. If it was me though I would be inclined to buy some new ones, my grotty ones tend to get used around the garden blocking holes in the hedge!

 

[Roselina]

It would be safe to just sand the rust off and wash in soapy water,rinse and dry. As the piggies can’t get to them it won’t matter but if you’re using them outside I’d use a pet friendly paint to cover those areas - if inside you won’t need to as they won’t re rust.
It’d save you money that you could put towards their loft extension !