GuineaLoft Model-A2 Acrylic Cage Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

The GuineaLoft Model-A2 Acrylic Cage is designed to provide a spacious and secure habitat for guinea pigs, rabbits, button quails, hedgehogs, and other small animals requiring ample roaming space. This model is a 4x2 ft (120x60 cm) open cage, featuring standard 1/8 inch (3 mm) acrylic panels for durability and clear visibility. It includes enhancements such as optional beams for increased rigidity, a built-in door panel/tube connector, and improved front panels for an unobstructed view of your pets.

The cage's design prioritizes pet comfort, owner convenience, and aesthetic integration into your home environment. Its stable construction ensures the enclosure remains intact during movement and cleaning, unlike traditional wire cages.

2. Included Components

Before beginning assembly, please verify that all components are present:

• 1 Side Door Panel Set
• 3 Additional Side Door Panel Sets (total of 4)
• 8 Clear Front/Back Panels
• 2 Disposable Bottoms
• 16 F2 Brackets
• 1 Thread Seal Tape
• 48 M5 6mm Screws
• 4 M6 12mm Screws
• 4 M6 12mm Gaskets
• 2 Thumb Screws
• 8 L2 Brackets
• 2 M6 16mm Beam Joint Screws
• 4 Multi-purpose Beams

3. Setup and Assembly

The GuineaLoft Model-A2 cage is designed for straightforward assembly. The panels are permanently joined using specially designed steel brackets and screws, ensuring long-term stability. Follow these general steps for assembly:

1. Unpack Components: Carefully remove all parts from the packaging and lay them out on a clean, flat surface. Refer to the 'Included Components' list to ensure all pieces are present.
2. Assemble Panels: Connect the clear acrylic panels using the provided F2 and L2 brackets, M5 6mm screws, and M6 12mm screws/gaskets. Ensure all connections are secure. The built-in door panel/tube connector should be positioned as desired for future expansion or access.
3. Install Beams (Optional): If using, attach the multi-purpose beams for extra rigidity using the M6 16mm beam joint screws.
4. Prepare the Base: Place one of the disposable bottoms or the reusable canvas bottom (if purchased separately) into the assembled cage structure.
5. Final Check: Ensure all screws are tightened and the cage is stable before introducing pets.

Video: Model A2 Introduction and Assembly Overview

Video 1: This video provides an overview of the Model A2 cage, demonstrating its features, assembly process, and how to connect it with other GuineaLoft cages using tubes. It also shows guinea pigs interacting within the habitat.

4. Operating Your GuineaLoft Cage

Clear View and Pet Bonding

The transparent acrylic walls offer a 360-degree panoramic view of your pets, encouraging more interaction. This clear visibility allows pets to see you as a constant, safe presence, fostering a stronger bond. You can easily observe their behavior and offer treats or gentle pats, leading to more comfortable and responsive pets.

Connecting and Expanding

The Model-A2 cage is designed for expandability. It can be easily linked with other Model-A series cages, as well as Model-C and Model-P series cages, allowing you to create larger, customized play structures. The built-in door panel facilitates opening the cage for pets to roam outside or connecting acrylic tubes (sold separately) to other enclosures.

Jump Safe and Cat Safe Features

The 10-inch height of the Model-A2 is generally jump-safe for most guinea pigs. For pets known to be jumpers, or for added security against other household pets like cats and dogs, optional covers and lids are available. These include an affordable translucent gauze cover, a crystal-clear acrylic lid, or a stainless steel grid lid (sold separately).

5. Maintenance and Cleaning

The GuineaLoft Model-A2 cage is designed for effortless cleaning, addressing a common challenge in small animal care. The acrylic walls also help contain bedding, preventing mess outside the cage.

Disposable Bottom System

The cage utilizes an innovative disposable bottom system for quick and hygienic cleaning. This system simplifies the process to three steps:

1. Lift the Cage: Gently lift the entire cage structure from the base.
2. Fold and Toss: Fold the soiled disposable bottom and dispose of it.
3. Replace: Place the cage onto a new disposable bottom.

Two disposable bottoms and two disposable mats are included with your purchase. Additional supplies are available from the GuineaLoft store.

Reusable Canvas Option

For those preferring a reusable solution, a canvas bottom with an innovative hook-and-hang system is available separately. This option offers an alternative to disposable bottoms, providing ease of cleaning without the need for frequent replacements.

6. Troubleshooting

If you encounter any issues with your GuineaLoft Model-A2 cage, please consider the following:

• Stability Concerns: Ensure all screws and brackets are securely fastened. The cage is designed to be stable once fully assembled.
• Panel Alignment: If panels do not align correctly, disassemble the affected section and re-align, ensuring components are seated properly before tightening screws.
• Bedding Spillage: Verify that the disposable or canvas bottom is correctly installed and fits snugly within the cage base to minimize bedding from being kicked out.

For further assistance, please refer to the contact information in the 'Warranty and Support' section.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

For information regarding product warranty, returns, or technical support, please contact GuineaLoft directly through their official website or the platform where the product was purchased. Keep your purchase receipt and model number (Model-A2) readily available when contacting support.