Caring for Your Guinea Pig During Cold Weather

Cold weather, ice and snow can pose serious risks to guinea pigs, particularly in the UK where winter conditions are often damp, changeable and unpredictable. Guinea pigs are especially sensitive to cold and temperature changes, and they rely entirely on their owners to keep them warm, dry and safe throughout the colder months.

This guide covers everything owners need to know to protect and care for their guinea pigs during winter, including housing, nutrition, health risks and practical cold-weather care.

How Cold Is Too Cold for Guinea Pigs?

Guinea pigs are not well adapted to cold temperatures. They are vulnerable to cold stress, damp conditions and draughts, which can quickly lead to illness.

Factors That Affect Cold Tolerance

• Age, with young and elderly guinea pigs being more vulnerable
• Health conditions or poor body condition
• Whether they live indoors or outdoors
• Exposure to wind, damp or draughts
• Group size, as guinea pigs often huddle for warmth

General Temperature Guidance

• Above 15°C – Most guinea pigs are comfortable
• Between 10°C and 15°C – Extra warmth and monitoring are important
• Below 10°C – High risk of cold stress and illness
• Below 5°C – Dangerous and potentially life-threatening

Guinea pigs should not be kept outdoors in freezing conditions.

Housing and Shelter in Winter

Outdoor Guinea Pigs

Outdoor housing requires careful winter preparation.

• Hutches must be:
  • Raised well off the ground
  • Fully weatherproof and draught-free
  • Positioned out of wind and rain
• Use thick layers of bedding such as hay and dust-extracted straw
• Line sleeping areas with insulation boards or purpose-made hutch covers
• Ensure ventilation without allowing cold draughts

Outdoor guinea pigs may need to be moved indoors during severe weather.

Indoor Guinea Pigs

Indoor housing offers greater protection from cold.

• Place enclosures away from draughts, doors and windows
• Avoid placing cages directly on cold floors
• Maintain a stable temperature

Indoor guinea pigs still need good ventilation and regular cleaning.

Alternative Winter Housing Options

During cold spells, alternative housing may be necessary.

Sheds and Outbuildings

Insulated sheds can provide better protection than hutches.

• Insulate walls and floors
• Ensure ventilation without draughts
• Protect from damp and predators
• Provide raised sleeping areas

Garages

Garages may be suitable temporarily if:

• They are dry and well ventilated
• No vehicles are running inside
• There are no fumes, fuel or chemicals present

Moving Guinea Pigs Indoors

In freezing weather, bringing guinea pigs indoors is often the safest option.

Suitable indoor spaces include:

• Spare rooms
• Utility rooms
• Quiet areas away from noise and draughts

Avoid sudden temperature changes when moving guinea pigs indoors.

Bedding and Insulation

• Use generous amounts of hay for warmth and nesting
• Add dust-extracted straw for extra insulation
• Avoid blankets or towels outdoors, as they absorb moisture
• Change bedding frequently to keep it dry

Damp bedding increases the risk of respiratory disease.

Protecting Guinea Pigs from Damp and Draughts

Guinea pigs are highly susceptible to respiratory infections.

• Repair leaks promptly
• Protect hutches and runs from rain and snow
• Keep bedding dry at all times
• Avoid covering ventilation completely

Nutrition and Hydration in Cold Weather

Feeding

Guinea pigs need a consistent, high-fibre diet.

• Provide unlimited hay at all times
• Offer fresh vegetables daily, removing uneaten food before it freezes
• Ensure a daily source of vitamin C
• Monitor weight regularly

Water

Water bottles can freeze easily.

• Check water several times a day
• Use insulated bottle covers
• Replace frozen bottles immediately
• Consider providing two bottles as a backup

Guinea pigs must never be left without water.

Health Risks During Winter

Hypothermia

Signs include lethargy, shivering, cold ears and feet, and reduced appetite. Hypothermia is an emergency. Bring guinea pigs indoors and contact a vet immediately.

Respiratory Infections

Cold, damp conditions can trigger respiratory illness.

Watch for:

• Sneezing
• Nasal or eye discharge
• Laboured or noisy breathing
• Loss of appetite

Prompt veterinary treatment is essential.

Arthritis and Mobility Issues

Older guinea pigs may struggle more in cold weather.

• Provide thick bedding
• Ensure easy access to food and water
• Minimise climbing or jumping

Exercise and Enrichment in Winter

Guinea pigs still need daily movement and stimulation.

• Allow supervised exercise in sheltered, dry areas
• Avoid icy or wet surfaces
• Provide tunnels, chew toys and hiding places

Indoor floor time can be beneficial during bad weather.

Companionship and Social Needs

Guinea pigs are social animals.

• Keep guinea pigs in compatible pairs or groups
• Monitor group dynamics closely in winter
• Ensure all guinea pigs are eating and active

Companionship helps with warmth and wellbeing.

Special Considerations for Vulnerable Guinea Pigs

Young or Elderly Guinea Pigs

Very young and older guinea pigs struggle to regulate body temperature and may need to be housed indoors during winter.

Sick or Underweight Guinea Pigs

Guinea pigs with health issues should be kept in warm, stable environments and monitored closely.

Preparing for Severe Winter Weather

• Stock up on hay, bedding and vitamin C-rich foods
• Check housing and alternative accommodation before cold weather arrives
• Keep veterinary contact details accessible
• Have a plan to move guinea pigs indoors if needed

Conclusion

Winter presents significant challenges for guinea pigs, particularly in the UK’s cold and damp climate. With appropriate housing, insulation, nutrition and close monitoring, guinea pigs can remain safe and healthy throughout the colder months.

Planning ahead and responding quickly to changing weather conditions will help ensure your guinea pigs stay warm, comfortable and well until spring arrives.