The Living World Deluxe Habitat by Hagen is a popular indoor enclosure sold for rabbits and guinea pigs. It’s known for its deep plastic base and top-opening design. This review looks at whether its size meets common welfare guidelines and what owners should know.
The Short Answer: The Living World Deluxe Habitat is easy to assemble and clean, with a deep base that contains bedding. The larger sizes may suit a single small animal as a home base, but many rabbit and guinea pig welfare guidelines recommend more floor space. Many owners pair it with an exercise pen or choose a larger setup.
Key Details
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Plastic base with wire top |
| Sizes | Several sizes (check current dimensions) |
| Access | Top and side doors |
| Included accessories | Varies; often a hay feeder, bowl and bottle |
| Floor | Solid plastic |
What It Is and How It Works
The habitat uses a deep plastic tray topped with a wire frame. The solid floor protects feet better than wire floors, and the deep tray reduces bedding spills.
Space is the main question. Many guinea pig welfare groups recommend at least about 7.5 square feet for two guinea pigs, and rabbit groups often recommend even more space plus daily exercise time. Compare the habitat’s actual floor dimensions to these guidelines.
See our guinea pig cage setup and indoor vs. outdoor rabbits.
What We Like
- Solid floor protects feet
- Deep base contains bedding
- Easy to assemble
- Top-opening design for access
- Widely available
Drawbacks
- May be smaller than welfare guidelines recommend for pairs
- Included accessories are often low quality
- Plastic base can be chewed by some rabbits
- Wire top limits vertical enrichment
Checking Floor Space
To calculate floor space in square feet, multiply length by width in inches and divide by 144.
| Example dimensions | Floor space |
|---|---|
| 40 x 24 in | About 6.7 sq ft |
| 47 x 24 in | About 7.8 sq ft |
| 60 x 24 in | 10 sq ft |
Compare the result with guidelines for your pets. If space is tight, attaching an exercise pen and allowing supervised floor time helps.
Things to Consider Before Buying
- Measure the actual floor dimensions and compare with guidelines.
- Plan daily exercise time outside the enclosure.
- Replace small water bottles or bowls with larger ones.
- Watch for chewing on plastic edges.
- Consider a C&C cage or pen for more space.
Who It Suits
| Good fit if… | Consider something else if… |
|---|---|
| You need a clean, contained home base | You need a primary enclosure for a pair of guinea pigs or a large rabbit |
| You also provide a pen or free-roam time | Your rabbit chews plastic |
| You have a single small animal | You want lots of floor space for the price |
Alternatives to Consider
| Option | How it differs |
|---|---|
| C&C (cubes and coroplast) cages | Expandable and often larger |
| Exercise pens | Large floor area for rabbits |
| Midwest Guinea Habitat | Popular expandable guinea pig enclosure |
When to Call Your Vet
Contact your vet if:
- Your pet develops sore feet
- You notice weight gain or lethargy from limited activity
- You see chewing-related injuries
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Living World Deluxe Habitat big enough for two guinea pigs?
Compare its floor space to guidelines. Many owners find they need a larger setup or extra pen space.
Can a rabbit live in it full-time?
Rabbits need more space and daily exercise. Use it as a base with a pen or free-roam area.
Is it easy to clean?
Yes. The base separates from the top for cleaning.
Are the included accessories good?
Many owners replace them with larger bowls, hay racks and hides.
Can I add a second level?
Some owners add ramps, but floor space matters more than height for guinea pigs.
Does it work for ferrets?
Ferrets usually need multi-level cages designed for them.
Can I add a second level to the Living World Deluxe Habitat?
The habitat includes a small ramp and platform. Guinea pigs don’t climb well, so ground-level floor space is more useful than extra levels. Rabbits may use a low platform but still need room to hop and stretch.
Is the Living World Deluxe Habitat easy to clean?
The plastic base unclips and the wire top lifts off, which most owners find easy to clean. Wipe the base with a mild, pet-safe cleaner and rinse well.
Can I use the habitat as a base with a pen attached?
Some owners leave the door open and connect it to an exercise pen, which adds valuable space. Make sure the pen is secure and the area is safe from other pets.
Pet Health Man is independent and isn’t paid by the brands we review. Product formulas, specifications and prices change, so check the current label or the manufacturer’s information before you buy.
This article is for general information only and isn’t a substitute for professional veterinary advice. If you’re worried about your pet’s health, contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital.
