Can rats swim (wild and domestic)?

The question of whether rats can swim in water can often be found on rodent forums. In order to understand the nuances, one should recall the features of the life of animals in the wild.

wild rat

Wild rats are one of the most common representatives of rodents. Over the centuries, they have developed excellent skills to adapt to any circumstances. Pasyuki survive even in the conditions of the far north.

The animals quickly orient themselves in space, remember the way from the first time. Most often, huge populations can be found in sewers. Underground utilities provide animals with access to food, water and warmth.

Given the amount of fluid in the sewer systems, it’s hard to doubt that rats are excellent swimmers. According to studies, rodents are able to stay in water bodies for up to 3 days, getting food for themselves or saving lives. This fact also confirms the common assertion that it is these animals that are the first to flee from a sinking ship. Usually in such a situation, there is an endless expanse of water around, along which the pasyuki get to land.

Bathing as fun

In case of danger, a decorative rat, like its wild counterpart, is able to save its life by moving through the water, but long swims do not bring much pleasure to pets. However, according to the observations of scientists and experienced breeders, some individuals living at home willingly splash in basins filled with water.

The owner, who considers it necessary to arouse the pet’s interest in bathing, should choose a container that is convenient for the rat. Basins or bowls are suitable for this, you can also purchase special baths.

The pool in which the domestic rat will splash must meet the following conditions:

• optimal depth so that the pet can get out of the bath at will; sustainability;
• size – it is desirable that the pool be 2 times larger than the rodent itself;
• walls – they must be rough, otherwise the pet may slip; fixtures – a rubber mat should be placed on the bottom, and a ramp or ladder should be installed at the sides.

For bathing, you must use only clean water: tap, bottled or filtered. The temperature should be determined by the comfort for the human hand.

Excessive cold can cause inflammatory diseases in the animal, hot liquid can cause a burn.

It is strictly forbidden to force a pet to swim or dive. To develop interest, it must be lured with treats. Curiosity and craving for delicious things will prevail over natural caution, and in the summer the rodent will joyfully splash in his own bath.

Video how rats swim