We all know that ferrets are small, fluffy, and mischievous creatures. But can they swim? If you want to get your fur-kids in the water, but don’t want them drowning or overheating (which is like 2 of their top 3 fears), then this blog post is for you!
A lot of pet owners are curious about whether or not ferrets can swim. The answer is yes, many ferrets enjoy swimming in pools and bathtubs! They may even try to follow you into the water when they see your family having fun in the pool.
Ferrets have a natural instinct to be comfortable around water because they’re semi-aquatic animals that love to play near rivers and streams. They’ll often take dips in ponds or puddles during the summer months too.
I’m going to share with you some tips on how to keep your ferrets safe when swimming. So let’s dive right in! (Pun intended!)
Can Ferrets Swim ?
Ferrets’ swimming is a topic that pops up more and more these days. Can ferrets swim? Can they swim in the pool, or on the beach? Can domesticated ferrets swim at all? The answer to all of these questions is yes!
Ferrets can swim, and they absolutely love it! Ferrets are natural-born swimmers, and often enjoy jumping into water bodies as well as taking dips in tubs or pools. Ferrets have long legs and short bodies, which makes them more suited to an aquatic lifestyle than we might think.Â
A newborn ferret learns to swim by seeing an adult ferret, such as its mother or father, who is already proficient in the water.Â
Pet domestic ferrets, on the other hand, must be taught to swim. It is very important to introduce your ferret to water at a very young age. The faster your ferret gets acclimatised to water, the quicker and easier it will be for it to enjoy this great activity.
Ferrets are very patient and tolerant creatures. They will become used to swimming quickly and have a fantastic time splashing about in the water as a result of the experience.Â
However, there are some important things you need to keep in mind if you want your favourite furry companion to be safe while they go for a dip.
Many ferret owners have experienced their ferret swimming in the pool or bathtub as well as running through sprinklers. Ferrets are naturally curious animals, like cats.Â
Pro Tip:You never want to force your ferret into the water if he does not want to go in. Ferrets have been known to drown because of this reason. If you notice that your ferret has an innate desire for water, then let him enjoy himself.
Can Ferrets Swim In A Bathtub?
If you’re wondering whether or not ferrets can swim in bathtubs, then the answer is yes! They love it, and they do it so very well.
Ferrets can definitely swim in bathtubs. Ferrets are naturally wily animals with long bodies and short legs which makes them excellent swimmers.They’re great swimmers as long as they can keep their heads above water in the tub.In fact, many owners have reported that their ferrets enjoy playing with bubbles or other toys while in the tub.Â
Allowing your pet ferret to happily Wade around in your bathtub or big sink is one of the most convenient and easiest ways to ensure that it enjoys swimming.
However, there are some safety precautions that need to be taken into consideration before allowing your pet ferret in a tub of water.
Checklist for Allowing Your Ferret to Swim in the Tub
Ensure The Correct Water Temperature:
Ensure that the water is at a comfortably warm temperature for your ferret. If the tub or sink is too cold, then it will cause your ferret to shiver.If the bathwater feels very hot,this may be uncomfortable or even painful for your pet companion.
Ensure that the water is at a comfortable temperature before allowing your ferret to enjoy itself in the tub.Anything below 12 degrees Celsius is too cold and anything above 22 degrees Celsius is too hot.
Make Sure The Water Is Not Too Deep :
You need to ensure that the water in the bathtub is no deeper than three to four inches when filled up, so they can stand on their hind legs or tread on all fours without having to worry about drowning.
Remove All Potentially Dangerous Items
When letting them play around in the tub,make sure there aren’t any objects inside which might hurt them while playing around too! This includes shampoo bottles ,sharp items etc.
Remove All Harmful Chemical Substances:
Ensure that there are no harmful chemical substances in the bathtub, such as soap, detergent, or shampoo. These could be very dangerous for your ferret and may cause severe health problems if swallowed or absorbed into his skin.
Do Not Force Your Ferret To Enter The Bathtub:
Never force your pet companion into anything if he doesn’t want to go in!Ferrets are very cautious animals who need time before getting accustomed with such new experiences .The last thing we would ever want is our little buddy to get hurt.
Don’t Let Your Ferret Remain In The Water For A Long Time:
As much as ferrets enjoy playing in the water,they shouldn’t be allowed to remain submerged for too long!A good rule of thumb is fifteen minutes maximum per session .This will ensure that they don’t catch a cold or become sick while enjoying themselves at bath time.
It’s important to keep your pet ferret safe and sound while allowing them to go for swims in your bathroom sink or tub!Always remember these safety precautions before letting them play in the bath tub.
Can Ferrets Swim In A Pool?
Ferrets can actually swim quite well and enjoy doing so whether it’s in your pool or just a regular kiddie pool! They will also need some guidance on swimming because they can get tired quickly. However, when learning how to swim with their owner they catch on pretty quickly and have fun at the same time.
A lot of people think that all small animals cannot swim, but this is not true. Ferrets are great swimmers and love playing in water!It is possible for them to do so provided you take certain precautions before allowing your beloved pet companion into the pool!
Pro Tip:Always be near enough to keep an eye on him at all times when he’s swimming around. It takes very little time for something terrible to happen if you’re not careful!
Checklist For Allowing Your Ferret To Swim In A Pool:
Ensure That There Is No Open Drain Or Skimmer :
Ferrets are very good at getting into tight spaces, which is why you need to ensure that there isn’t any open drain or skimmer in your pool. They could fit right through the tiny hole and accidentally fall inside. The last thing we want is for our ferret pal to be trapped somewhere inaccessible with no way out!
Make sure either the skimmers or drains have a tightly fitted mesh net over it so he can swim happily without falling down anywhere dangerous.You also don’t want him slipping away just as you turn around for a second – scaring both of you half to death!
Ensure The Depth Of Water Is Safe For Ferrets:
The depth of your pool is very important. You don’t want the water level to be too high for them because they will have a hard time climbing out if it’s deep enough where they can barely touch the bottom with their paws.
The best way for your pet ferret to enjoy some aquatic time in your pool safely is by bringing him/her along in an inflatable baby pool.This is a great option because it not only allows your ferret to play in water, but it also gives them something to sit on if they need a break from swimming.
Ferrets can drown just as easily as any other animal so it’s crucial that you know how to spot when your ferret is in danger of drowning or when he/she may simply be having fun playing around in the pool with you!
Ensure Correct Water Temperature:
The water temperature is also very important. It needs to be at a normal temperature because ferrets are not very tolerant of cold temperatures. .They can easily catch a cold or flu if the pool is too chilly so avoid letting your pet companion swim in freezing waters!
You can even bring your pet ferret to a pool that’s heated up with a heater so he enjoys his time in the water without getting cold.
Ferrets are more likely to also overheat while swimming in pools, especially if it’s warm out! So make sure their access point to the pool is easy & accessible for exiting should he get too hot. If this happens, take him out immediately and offer lots of fresh drinking water.
Ensure Pool Is Not Chlorinated:
Ferrets are very sensitive to chlorine and can develop health problems if they spend too much time around it.
If your pool is already treated with chlorine, then you should definitely consider buying a chemical-free water replacement like filtered pond water or springwater for him to swim in safely, in an inflatable kiddie pool.The chemicals used in most conventional pools aren’t good for his delicate skin, so be sure that he’s not swimming around inside of one!
Can Ferrets Swim In The Ocean?
Ferrets can absolutely go swimming in the ocean! They will love exploring their surroundings, getting a little wet and having fun with you. All ferrets are natural swimmers.
Ferrets naturally love sand and will have a whale of a time digging themselves in the sand and playing around with you on the beach. However, it is very important that you have your ferret on a leash when you take them to the beach.
Checklist For Allowing Your Ferret To Swim In The Ocean:
Always Have Your Ferret On A Leash:
It’s never safe to let your little ferret friend wander off on their own near beaches.The last thing you want is for them to get washed out by a wave and have no way of getting back!
Ferrets are good swimmers but they can’t stay afloat forever so it’s best if they’re always attached to something or someone while swimming in the ocean.Don‘t be afraid, he won’t think any less of you for being protective !
Check The Tide Timings:
You need to make sure your ferret isn’t near the water during a high tide, as this is dangerous for them. You might not be able to see where they are, and if there’s a sudden rise in tides, then it could end up being fatal! Be careful about their safety at all times when you’re on the beach with them, because one moment of distraction can cost you everything – literally!
There is a small risk that they may get caught in rip currents and drift away from you. It’s very important to pay attention to the tide times before going swimming with your ferret companion .
You should never allow them out of your sight because an unexpected surge could sweep him/her right off his feet!
Be On The Lookout For Other Animals:
If he manages to come across a seal, dog or another animal while playing on the beach then it might end up being a fight for dominance over each other. Try not to let that happen since this can become dangerous for both animals.
Try To Avoid Overcrowded Beaches:
In an overcrowded area where there’s a lot of commotion going on, it can become hard for you to keep track of your pet companion! You could lose sight, or even worse, he/she might get lost in the crowd if things turn chaotic. Ensure that your ferret swims at uninhabited beaches where he can have his own space without feeling overwhelmed by strangers passing by every now and then.
Always Bring Food And Fresh Water:
Ferrets are known to fall ill quite easily if they don’t have enough food or water with them .If you’re planning on spending a good few hours at the beach then make sure that he has enough of his favourite snacks along with fresh drinking water for him!
Be Careful With The Salt Water:
Salt water is not good for their sensitive eyes so always bring along some fresh water for him to have a quick dip ! It also causes dryness which makes it uncomfortable for them because all little furballs love being nice and comfy after taking a swim .It would be best if you bathed your ferret in clean water immediately after you get back home from a day at the beach!
How To Train Your Ferret To Swim?
Lets say you’ve decided to take your ferrets swimming. Can they be trained?Ferrets are animals that love playing, so it’s very possible for them to learn how to swim! This is especially true if their owner has taught them other tricks like fetching or using a litter box.
It might seem challenging at first, but with the right approach and patience, getting your pet companion started on this training can be quite easy. If you’re starting off as an absolute beginner then I would suggest letting him play around in shallow water before trying anything too deep .
1. Fill up the bathtub to just below the ferret’s shoulders 3 to 4 inches deep. Add enough water so that it doesn’t take much for the ferret to swim.Â
2.Slowly call out to your ferret and try to coax him to get into the bath tub.You can give him few treats during the process. This will help your ferret associate swim time with treat time. This works as a positive reinforcement.
3. Once your ferret is ready to explore the bath tub,slowly lower the ferret in the tub. Observe his reactions carefully and if you feel that he’s scampering to get out of the water, then do not force him to stay in. If all goes well and your ferret starts exploring his new water surroundings, you can supervise and allow him to swim around.
Things To Keep In Mind While Training Ferrets To Swim
Ferrets Can Be Trained To Swim At Any Age:
It might seem impossible at first, but there’s no reason to freak out. The trick is being patient so don’t even think about pushing too much as this could end up scaring them off completely ! Just like humans, ferrets also need time before they start trusting someone or something genuinely. Take your time with training your little guy and never try anything that seems aggressive ,harsh or cruel towards his sensitive nature .
Respect His Zones of Comfort:
Ferrets are known to be a little weird when it comes to exploring new things or going out of their comfort zone . If he seems uncomfortable with the idea then you need not push him into doing something that will leave him traumatized. Always try and remember what makes your furry companion feel safe and secure at all times because this is crucial for their happiness!
You Can Teach Your Ferret To Swim For Pleasure:
He’ll definitely love swimming if there’s praise involved, since they absolutely adore being praised by their owners ! This can make them do anything in order to get some attention from you, so don’t be surprised if he ends up learning how to swim faster than usual. It would also be fantastic if you could reward him with something truly special when he performs admirably.
Post-Swimming Activity Care: What to Do After Ferrets Swim?
- Wash And Dry Your Pet Thoroughly After The Swim :
It is important to clean your ferret after he has had a swim. This will prevent salt from irritating his skin and also get rid of any leftover sand that may have accumulated on him during the fun time!You should dry him off with a towel.Â
You may also take this opportunity to brush out his hair and clean their ears which will help keep them nice and healthy!
- Give Plenty Of Fresh Water and Food:
After he has gotten back home, make sure that you offer him his favorite food and plenty of fresh water to drink .It would be best if he eats something healthy right afterwards because swimming sure does make one hungry but never feed any human food .
Ferrets are known to become dehydrated quite easily , so it is important for you keep a close check on their drinking habits!
- Monitor The Hygiene And Health Status :
It’s possible that your little buddy may have contracted something during the day at the beach if he was playing around with wild animals or other ferrets. You should closely monitor whether there are any changes in bowel movements, appetite levels, etc. that could be signs of an infection! If anything unusual happens, then take note of it immediately because this might require medical attention !
General Things To Keep In Mind When Your Ferret Is Swimming :
Swimming is a great way for ferrets to get active and exercise. They love playing around in the water, so it’s usually not an issue, but there are some precautions that you need to take while they’re swimming.
- Ferrets Can’t Stay In The Water Forever: If you see that they are struggling or trying to come back towards dry areas, make sure you help them get out of there quickly! They can drown under water if they get too tired.
- Never Leave Them Unattended: This goes without saying but you should never leave your ferret friend unattended for a long time when they’re swimming .You can have someone watch them from a distance just so that there’s always somebody keeping track of their whereabouts at all times.
- If You Can’t Swim, Then Don’t Risk It!: It might seem like an amazing idea, but if you can’t swim and don’t know how to hold yourself afloat, then there is no point in taking your pet along with you. Swimming requires proper knowledge about currents and waves which makes it quite dangerous even for experienced swimmers – this applies double for people who are not confident enough while swimming underwater.
- Make Sure They Can Get Back On Land With Easy Exit Points:Ferrets can swim but they get tired very easily .Make sure that there are steps or something available along the way which will help them get out of water easily. It is very important that you train your ferret to recognise the exit points, so that it can waddle out when it desires.
Wrapping Up
Ferrets are natural swimmers and love water, but they can’t swim in deep water without supervision. They need to be constantly watched by their owners when playing around the pool or bathtub so that they don’t accidentally fall into a deeper section and drown.
It’s also important for ferret owners not to leave them alone outside near any bodies of fresh water because if your pet falls in, he may find it difficult to get out again on his own.
If your ferret has never been around water before, it may take a little time for them to get used to being submerged in the water. In that case, just be patient with their adjustment period and give them plenty of treats as rewards when they do well swimming by themselves.
XoXo
Genie