What kind of hutch for newbie?

[salamanca]

We are buying 2 guinea pigs for daughter's birthday. What kind of hutch do you recommend? I have seen those with a run underneath, are these any good. Also would this be a problem on a patio? Choice so huge can't decide! We are considering the York model from Amazon or other similar ones with or without 2 levels? Any advice appreciated. Thank you!

 

[AudioHeart]

The more space the better for piggies! The york hutch is great for pigs as it has run underneath and it wouldn't be a problem on patio as long as they still got plenty of fruit veggies and hay to munch on...my piggies are kept on patio on sunny days as its shaded and can be cooling! The one level i believe is fine for two girl piggies but I'd consider buying two level hutch for boys or more guinea pigs. Good luck in shopping for your hutch hope this has helped

 

[CiaraPatricia]

I dunno how big that hutch is, but they do recommend that for two pigs, a hutch should be at least 4'X2'. Even if it's too levels, each level should ideally be that size, because it's the space they can run around that matters.

Mine have hutches with runs underneath on the patio and it seems fine. As long as the bit underneath stays fairly dry, if the hutch is somewhere quite sheltered. Also put the hutch against a wall, as those hutches are top heavy and can blow over.

 

[salamanca]

Thanks both of you for your help! I feel more reassured now. I think I'll go for this one as it's really roomy

 

[Willowzee]

Hiya!

I bought the York hutch for my rabbits before I realised that it was nowhere near big enough (don't ask, had my stupid hat on!), I then considered keeping it for my pigs, but I must warn you if they aren't used to ramps the ramp is VERY steep on that model, I wasn't aware it would be so steep even for rabbits, and its quite thin too.

Mine just aren't used to ramps and don't seem to like climbing over things, maybe that's just them.



ETA:

Also ,the ramp goes into the sheltered bedding area, which I found really odd, my other hutches with ramps all have the ramp in the run about area. It is a really roomy run tho!