Are Rats Good Swimmers?

If you’ve ever wondered if rats are good swimmers, think again. This rodent can stay submerged for three minutes, and its long thin tail allows it to stay afloat. It also has fur that helps it stay warm in cold water. In fact, some species can survive up to three days without drowning.

To help your rat become a good swimmer, introduce it to water in small amounts, such as bowls or plates. Place your pet rat into the water slowly and steadily, until it is comfortable and can swim. If your rat is hesitant to enter water, it might be trying to get out. Be sure to monitor your rat’s mood and other stress signs.

Although rats are not fond of water, they can swim. They are able to hold their breath up to three minutes underwater and can fit into small spaces. They are also capable of swimming great distances. In fact, some rats have been found swimming across the river Volga in Russia, the second-longest river in Europe.

However, you should keep in mind that swimming to exhaustion can hurt your rat. It can result in physical exhaustion and even muscle soreness. It is best to give your rat an extended break after swimming for more than half an hour.