BEHAVIOR | CARE
By Christine
Dog owners know that swimming is one activity they can share with their pets, and although cats aren’t as water-loving as dogs, a dunking in the pool won’t usually cause any harm. But what about rabbits?
Technically, yes. Some wild bun breeds, such as the Marsh rabbit, thrive in wet environments and even seem to enjoy swimming.
Moreover, swimming is a survival instinct that nature has hardwired into rabbits. Buns in the wild will jump into a river or pond to flee from predators. This means that bunnies can and do swim to save their lives
That’s a better question. Even though rabbits can swim, it doesn’t mean you should make it a habit to take them with you to the pool. Because of their dense coat, they quickly get waterlogged, which is not a fun experience.
Not ALL rabbits hate swimming. We did mention that some wild buns have learned to make swimming part of their daily activities.
First determine if your pet doesn’t mind getting wet.
Because each rabbit is unique, you may just have a bun that loves the water. But finding out how he feels about going for a lap or two can be challenging.
Here are gentler ways to find out if you can interest your bun in swimming.
Spritz your pet’s hutch with water
Watch his reaction to his water bowl
See how he reacts to having a bath
Even if your bun loves the water, we advise against taking him for a dip in a chlorinated pool. Chlorine is a chemical that can be toxic to rabbits.
The sea may seem safer than a chlorinated pool because of the absence of chemicals in the water. However, you’ll expose your pet to elements foreign to him if you take him to the sea.
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