Guinea Pig-Proofing 101: Safe Spaces for Floor Time

By The Cavy Whisperer

Free roam time is one of the best parts of a guinea pig’s day—but only if it’s safe. Cavies are naturally curious, quick-footed, and impressively skilled at locating the one thing in the room they shouldn’t chew. Whether you’re letting your piggies stretch their legs in a living room, a playpen, or a dedicated piggy zone, a little prep can go a long way.

Here’s your essential guide to pig-proofing the space so your floofs can zoom in peace (and you can relax without worrying about cord confetti).

Block ALL Escape Routes

Piggies can squeeze into spaces that don’t look piggy-sized.

🔸 Check for gaps under furniture, behind doors, or beneath radiators.

🔸 Use rolled towels, grids, or hidey houses to block access points.

Cover All Wires & Cords

Cords = chew toys in disguise.

🔸 Tuck them behind furniture, use cord protectors, or elevate them.

🔸 Bonus: Unplug devices when not in use, just to be safe.

No Houseplants Allowed

Many houseplants (even the pretty ones) are toxic to piggies.

🔸 Keep greenery far out of reach.

🔸 Check ASPCA’s toxic plant list before bringing anything new into your home.

Watch for Slippery Surfaces

Hardwood, laminate, and tile are piggy ice rinks.

🔸 Use fleece blankets, mats, or rubber-backed rugs to help with traction.

🔸 Bonus: Soft footing helps prevent injury and builds confidence.

Hide the Snacks (and Non-Snacks)

If it’s on the floor, it’s fair game.

🔸 Pick up paper, shoelaces, packaging, plastic bags, and anything small or stringy.

🔸 Yes, that includes your tax return.

Provide Hides & Retreats

Floor time should feel cozy, not exposed.

🔸 Offer tunnels, fleece forests, cardboard castles, or fabric-covered hides.

🔸 Bonus: More hides = less squabbling if you have multiple pigs.

Supervised Always

Never leave pigs alone during free roam time.

🔸 Even in a pig-proofed room, things can change fast.

🔸 Supervision = safety, bonding, and more photo ops.

Share Your Safe Setups!

Floor time can be magical—with a little prep.

We’d love to see your cozy, clever, and cavy-safe spaces.

📸 Tag us at @TheCavyWhisperer so we can share the inspiration (and the zoomies)!

Final Wheek of Wisdom for Guinea Pig Floor time

Piggy-proofing is an act of love. It says:

“I see you, little explorer. I honor your curiosity. But maybe don’t chew the phone charger.”

With a few simple changes, your Guinea Pig floor time setup can be a safe haven of joy, snacks, and squeaky freedom. And trust us: the popcorns are worth it. 💛