How do I set up a cage for a skinny pig?
Provide at least 4sqft of floor space per adult skinny pig and keep the ambient temperature between 68–75°F (20–24°C) from day one.
Space requirement
Give your skinny pig at least 4sqft (≈0.37m²) of solid‑bottom floor area; a standard 30‑inch‑wide by 48‑inch‑deep cage meets this easily. Adult skinny pigs weigh 1.5–2.5lb, so the floor must support that weight without sagging. Aim for a cage height of 12–14inches so the animal can stand upright without hitting the top.
If you plan to house two or three companions, increase the floor to 6–8sqft to prevent crowding. A larger footprint also helps maintain humidity in the 40–60% range, which is crucial for hairless skin. Measure the interior dimensions with a tape measure before buying any accessories.
Choosing and preparing the cage
Select a metal or acrylic cage with smooth, non‑porous walls; avoid wire floors because they can cut delicate skin. Place the cage on a level surface away from drafts and direct sunlight, then line the bottom with 2inches of kiln‑dried pine shavings or paper‑based bedding. The bedding should be changed every 5–7days to keep ammonia low.
Install a sturdy, lockable door that opens wide enough for you to reach the back corners without squeezing. Attach a corner guard made of acrylic to prevent the cage from tipping if the pig pushes against it. Let the empty cage sit for 24hours so the temperature stabilizes before adding any heat source.
Adding cover and essentials
Provide a hideout that covers at least 6inches of floor space; a small wooden house or a fleece tunnel works well. Position the hideout in the cooler corner of the cage to give the pig a place to retreat from the 68–75°F ambient range. Add a chew block of 3×3inches to satisfy natural gnawing behavior.
Mount a water bottle that delivers 3–4oz of water per refill and a feeder that holds ½cup (≈120g) of fresh vegetables each day. Place both items on the same side of the cage to avoid spillage onto the bedding. Use a low‑wattage ceramic heat emitter (40W) on a timer set for 10hours if the room temperature drops below 68°F.
Testing and day‑one checklist
Before the pig arrives, run a 48‑hour test: turn on the heat emitter, measure temperature with a digital probe, and verify humidity with a hygrometer. Adjust the thermostat in 2°F increments until the range stays within 68–75°F. Check that the water bottle drips no more than 1drop per second, indicating proper flow.
On day one, perform a quick visual sweep to confirm all items are secure and the bedding is level. Observe the pig for the first 30minutes to see if it explores the hideout and drinks from the bottle. Record the temperature and humidity readings in a notebook for future reference.
- Solid‑bottom cage with ≥4sqft floor
- 2inches of appropriate bedding
- Hideout covering ≥6inches of space
- Water bottle (3–4oz capacity) and feeder (½cup)
- Heat emitter (40W) on timer
- Thermometer and hygrometer
Common setup mistakes
Putting the cage in direct sunlight raises temperature above 75°F and dries the skin, leading to cracks. Use a curtain or place the cage on the opposite side of the window to avoid this. Also, never use pine or cedar shavings; their aromatic oils irritate the respiratory system.
Skipping the 24‑hour stabilization period often results in temperature spikes when the heat source is turned on. Forgetting to lock the door can allow the pig to escape and injure itself on furniture. Finally, neglecting to monitor humidity for the first two weeks can cause the skin to become too dry or too moist, both of which invite infections.
Keep reading about Skinny Pig: Skinny Pig care sheet
Related questions
What temperature should I keep the cage at during winter?
Maintain a steady 70°F (21°C) using a 40‑W heat emitter; adjust in 2°F steps if the room drops below 68°F.
How often must I change the bedding?
Replace the bedding every 5–7days, or sooner if it becomes soiled or emits a strong odor.
Do I need a companion for a hairless guinea pig?
Yes, house at least two skinny pigs together; add 2sqft of extra floor space per additional pig to keep stress low.
Not veterinary advice. This guide covers husbandry — housing, feeding, cleaning and handling. If your skinny pig is injured, off food unusually long, or behaving abnormally, contact a veterinarian.