WHEN you’re thinking about buying a pet, one of the first things to consider is where the pet will live. Will your dog live with you inside, in a basket in a corner by your bed? Or will it live in a doghouse outside? What’s the appropriate sized cage for your guinea pig? What does your hamster need in its cage? Can a bird cage be too small?

Pet stores all around have a host of homes for each kind of pet, and you can even make your own, if you’re creative enough.

For example, a large crate can be converted into a sweet pad for a guinea pig and a bird cage can be retrofitted for your hamster.

Here are some things to consider when choosing a home for your pet.

1. The main things to consider when selecting a cage for your bird, is the size of the bird and how active it is. If your bird insists on planning an escape, you have to invest in extra security in a cage. If your bird is more laid back, a smaller cage may do; but if the bird is super active, it needs all the space it can get.

2. If you have a guinea pig, space is important. It’s not recommended that you buy hamster cages for your guinea pig, as the pig needs more space. And because your guinea pig will be happier being around other pigs, you’ll probably be buying more than one pig, and so, the larger the space the better.

3. If you have a hamster, it will be more interested in having exercise space, than in as much open space as a guinea pig. Hamster cages are more readily available locally than guinea pig cages. Just make sure that you outfit your hamster cage with something like an exercise wheel.

4. If you have a pet rabbit, as it is for the guinea pig, bigger is better. Your cage should be at least four times the size of your rabbit if you want to keep it happy. Your rabbit may like getting out and hanging out in your house quite a bit, so provide a door where it can go in and out. Note that like cats, rabbits can be potty trained, so having them around your house may not be such a problem.

Remember, when choosing a cage, what is important is that your pet is comfortable and happy. Don’t put an active pet in a cramped space where it will be miserable; or in a cage with exposed wires where it can get hurt. Also, make sure the pet has comfortable bedding appropriate to that pet’s needs, and that you keep the cage clean.